by Becky Cole

 While reading through classified ads is a good thing to do, it should not be used as your only strategy for finding a job. There are many reasons for this, including:

• The jobs placed in these ads represent only a small part of the jobs that are actually available
• The jobs placed in these ads are typically lower-wage jobs that have a high turnover rate, or jobs that require the employee to be highly skilled.
• Many times the employer placing the ad is only collecting resumes for a position that may be open some time later in the year.

However, there is much you can learn from reading them, such as the language they use. Do the ads use "administrative assistant" or "receptionist"? Will you be making outbound calls, or will you be only answering the phone.? Do they list the name of the company, or do they want you to respond to a post office box?

If you see a job that seems to be a perfect fit, you can increase your odds of getting a job interview by doing the following:

1. Follow the application instructions. How does the employer want you to contact him – by e-mail, fax, or mail your resume or call for a telephone screening interview? What does he want you to send him - resume, letter, references, examples of work? Don’t give them any more than what they ask for, but also don’t give them any less. For example, if they want to see a writing sample with your resume, don’t send your resume without one.

2. Include a cover letter with your resume. When you write the letter, use the words they used in the ad.

3. Follow up your application within five days with a phone call, fax, or e-mail. This will be the single most important action you can take to move your application to the top of the pile and get it read. Ask if the employer has any questions about your application, restate your qualifications and interest in the position.

4. Call and ask for an interview. Before you make the call, though, be prepared to give three reasons why you should be hired. Remember, they aren’t interested in hearing about what you have done in your past jobs, but want to know how they are going to benefit from hiring you. So, when you call to ask for the interview, keep it brief, but tell them why you are the best candidate for the job.

Asking for the interview is a critical piece in this process. If you wait for them to call you, chances are good that it won’t happen. Calling them first will help you stand you among all of the other people who applied for the job.

Adapted in part from Ron and Caryl Krannich, Ph.Ds, The Ex-Offender's Job Hunting Guide (Manassas Park, VA: Impact Publications).

Becky Cole is a consultant for non-profit organizations specializing in capacity building for both individuals and corporations throughout the Twin Cities.  She has an Education Specialist Degree from Indiana University. Becky Cole can be reached at: bcole@employmentnewsmn.com