There are an infinite number of ways to approach the job market. The more strategies you put into play, the greater your chances for success. Here are some world-class tactics for developing job leads:

(1) Write or Email Personal Friends & Business Acquaintances

Explain your situation, paint a picture of your ideal next job or opportunity, and ask for advice and ideas, rather than asking for a job directly. Very often the advice will lead to an interview.

(2) Look at Want Ads

They're listed in newspaper classifieds and when applying the best letter format is to list the job requirements in a column on the left side of the page, then show how you fit in a column on the right side. It's not a bad idea to answer important ads twice, a week apart; be sure to include a note expressing keen interest the second time.

(3) Attend Job Fairs

Organizations in Trinidad such as the HR Management Association and a number of Government Ministries run annual Job / Career Fairs. Make sure you read the papers regularly to learn when they are on and who will be there, so you can take the necessary documents.

(4) Attend Organizational Meetings and Conferences

Many professions have associations which meet regularly. Join your professional association and become an active member rather than just a by-stander to make sure people know who you are and what you are capable of.

(5) Attend Business and Personal Social Events

The jobs are where the people are, namely at parties, get-togethers, sporting events, health clubs--anywhere people gather.

(6) Write a Direct Mail Letter to Companies

Go through the phone directory and look for companies that interest you, then send a direct mailing letter. You can include your resume, but don’t send copies of certificates, photos etc until you are invited for an interview.  Remember to look at small and medium sized companies too – the large firms are not the only ones with job openings.

(7) Contact Companies by Telephone

Rather than writing a letter or sending an email, you may choose the personal touch and call companies to ask about possible job opportunities. Speak to the HR department if there is one.  

(8) Register With Your College Alumnae Association

Most schools in Trinidad have an Alumnae Association and the people there may be more inclined to put you in touch with possible job offerings, because of the school affiliation.

(9) Volunteer Your Expertise

Choose an organization where you might later be hired; little jobs lead to bigger jobs.

(10) Watch the Media and Play Off Trends

Pay attention to radio and television, newspapers and professional journals. Look for change, opportunities, and problems to solve.

(11) Write a Letter to Newsmakers

Check the ‘Movers and Shakers’ columns in newspapers, magazines and trade journals to see which companies are promoting people and hiring new professionals.

(12) Advertise Yourself

You can consider posting your own ‘Wanted’ Ad in the national newspapers – advertising your skills or expertise. Be careful not to include personal information though - use an abstract email address or PO Box.   

(13) Give Classes or Presentations

Teach in local colleges, at business meetings, in professional associations--anywhere you will be seen and noticed.

(14) Take a Further Education Class

Meet the instructor(s) and rub shoulders with fellow attendees.

(15) Try Offbeat Ideas

Over the years, participants in outplacement workshops have made some wild suggestions. One that always comes up is, "Read the obituaries--there's bound to be a job vacancy." Everyone in class laughs. It's a not-too-practical idea, and I've never seen it pay off, but you could try it--or any other creative idea you might find.

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