There are a number of different ways to find that perfect job. The internet, print media, recruitment agencies and networking are all great ways to source employment.

Source your job effectively.

• Internet: www.seek.com.au  , www.careerone.com.au  , www.mycareer.com.au  
• Print media: The West Australian, The Australian, Community News, Trade or Industry Publications.
• Recruitment Agencies
• You can even “cold call” the companies you wish to work for

Networking is another viable source for seeking job opportunities: speak to your friends, colleagues and professional societies or organisations that are relevant to your field of interest.

Keep track of the positions you have applied for

When searching for work always keep track of who you have sent your résumé to and who you have called. You lose all credibility when a future employer calls and you have no recollection of who they are and the details of the position you have applied for.

Tailor your resume to each position

Based on the premise that past behaviour is the best predictor of future behaviour – people making recruitment decisions are looking for ways that you have demonstrated the skills required in the past. So take the time to look at the skills required and highlight these skills in your résumé.

Keep your resume formatting simple

Use bullet points to help structure your resume. Steer away from long winded sentences and paragraphs. Instead use short and clear points. Also ensure that you use standard font types like Ariel and Times New Roman and keep the sizing between 10 and 12.

Only include relevant information in your resume

Take the time to overview the ad or job description and omit any irrelevant information. There is no need to include personal details such as: your marital status, your age, or second mailing address. Likewise there is no need include any irrelevant education, training or referee details – state they are “available on request”.

Quantify your work experience

Wherever possible avoid subjective comments like, “displayed excellent sales skills”. It is more credible if you include statements that are quantifiable. For example, “exceeded sales targets by 20%”. The easiest way to achieve quantifiable statements is to cite achievement based evidence.

Proof read your resume

It would be disastrous to miss out on your perfect position through making a spelling mistake!

Never exaggerate the truth

Although it is essential to sell yourself, never exaggerate your skills. It is likely you will have to expand on your experience in an interview, and an interviewer will pick up inconsistencies very quickly.