Step 1: The Hunt

Help Wanted.  Now Hiring.  Positions Available.  These are among millions of the ways that the world around you says, "work here."  Now, it may not be as easy as driving down main street, browsing for catchy billboards or flashy kiosks, calling up the mentioned number and simply getting hired.  It takes work. 

Step 1

The first step is perhaps one of the easiest: to think.  Think about what your qualifications are, what you are good at, and what you wouldn't mind doing. 

Step 2

The second step would be to formulate a plan for the future.  Ask yourself, where do I want to be in one year? Two years? Five? Ten? Am I willing to relocate to find work? Am I flexible with hours or salary? 

Step 3

With this in mind, it is time to start the search.  Look in your local paper under the employment listings for a start, keeping a relatively open mind.  Do not get discouraged right away, it will make the process so much harder.  Next, type in a few general words into your favorite internet search engine.  Try your zip code + "job listing".  There are also certain websites that are very helpful with the initial search, compiling results for you.  Careerbuilder.com, Monster.com, and indeed.com are just a few examples of places to start.

If you have a specific job in mind starting out, try going to the company's website.  Most will direct you to their employment page and show jobs available with a short description of each. 

If you find something you might be interested in anywhere, make sure to take down the number to call, even if it is just a possibility.  Send emails, set up interviews, become proactive.  Keep in mind that just because a company or organization isn't hiring at the moment, most places will keep your application on file for a few months.