• If no one knows you’re looking for a new job, they aren’t able to help you. You need to make people aware of the fact that you are looking for a job. Talking with your family, friends and acquaintances is one of the best ways to identify new professional contacts and learn about job openings, even those that aren’t advertised. Making connections by networking is very important. Be proactive and put yourself out there.

• If you’re not doing your research, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Applicants who show they have a strong knowledge of the job and company are better able to communicate specific ways they can contribute to the organization’s success. Start with corporate Web sites, trade publications and local business journals.

• Do NOT forget your cover letter. Your cover letter is an opportunity to market yourself in greater detail and passing up on this opportunity is a mistake.

• Do NOT send out your send out your resume without targeting it to your desired job. Online job boards have made it easy for applicants to apply for a position with the simple click of the mouse. All too often people don’t tailor their resumes to specific jobs. Take the extra time and effort to customize your resume to each opportunity.

• Time and again, people will forget to proofread their resumes and cover letters. Make sure all of your written communications with a potential employer, are error free. To avoid this mistake, consider asking a friend to review your job search materials before submitting them.

• Do NOT forget to follow up with potential employers. If you’ve applied for a job and haven’t heard back, this does not indicate that the job has been filled. Often times, hiring managers get busy and may have misplaced your resume or they haven’t had a change to look at your resume.

Finding a Job in Boston is hard work, try not to get discouraged. The right job is out there for you!

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There are many possibilities to find non-profit Jobs in Boston. Some of these job titles may include: Assistant Director of Fund-Raising, Program Analyst, Program Director, Program Officer, Marketing Research Associate, Community Outreach Coordinator, Finance Director, etc…. It is also possible to be hired as an Executive Director of a small organization. Salaries tend to range from mid $20,000 to mid $40,000 depending on the job and its responsibilities, and the organizations budget.One may assume positions of increasing responsibility in functional areas, program or service delivery, and/or general management. Primary job functions can include working with a Board of Directors, public and community groups, fund-raising, media outreach, clients and other non-profit organizations. However, advancement within the non-profit sector depends on the size and mission of each organization. There are endless opportunities to jump from the non-profit industry over to private and public government work, as skills gained in the non-profit industry are very easily translatable. Non-profit workers are typically noted for the enthusiasm and love for their jobs - also very important skills if it comes time to change your focus away from non-profits.

The pros and cons of non-profit Jobs in Boston continue with free membership within the organization, paid training, reduced parking, food and merchandise discounts, subsidized public transit, union membership, etc… Non-profits also tend to foster a different type of employee-employer relationship, as the dedication to the work is more consistent throughout all levels of the organizations; where as this same dedication may be more segmented in a large corporation.

With anything, there are some cons that go along with non-profit work. Uncertain financial future of the organization, lower than average pay, and tiring and stressful work environments are all factors to take into consideration. In deciding to take any Job in Boston, there are always pros and cons to be considered and weighed against one another in order to make the best career decision for you individually.

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This test-and-take practice is hardly new, since the early 1900s, and is growing in popularity nationwide with 466 Temp-to-Hire Agencies in Massachusetts alone. In this uncertain economy and with everyone looking for flexibility with employment on both the employer and employee end, there is a slight contradiction with the motives behind temp to hire work though there are benefits for all. At the same time the Human resources departments are more willing to outsource rather than direct hire. This is an advantage to the employee who can try the company before committing to the job and the company can also get necessary work done without being bound to a full time employee if the job was not done adequately. This is a much less expensive way for companies to fill permanent positions and it provides flexibility to the employee.

Also the company who is considering the Temp-to-Hire has the opportunity to asses a candidate, who may not have passed for direct hire, based on performance rather than credential. This gives the employee a chance to showcase talent and skill that may have been attained through experience. There is a chance to test before they take. This practice encourages the much needed and much desired flexibility given the current state of the economy and the modern mentality of the new working generation. The employer wants an employee who is accessible, flexible and talented; where the employee wants a company who is flexible for them and towards their own desires with just as many benefits. The number of temp to hire jobs is forecasted to reach 5.8 million permanent jobs by 2010.

As a result, Boston Staffing Firms are in competition with one another for quality temp-to-hire candidates. We all know that the Job Market in Massachusetts is a difficult one, just with states across the country, however the trend toward temp-to-hire positions is obviously on the upswing. It is definitely a viable alternative for job seekers looking for Jobs in Boston to strongly consider.

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· Sales representative jobs are available right now. In tough economic times, a good sales force is a critical way to pull a company out of a downturn.

· Look into health care jobs. Almost half the 30 fastest growing occupations are concentrated health services. In the health industry alone, there are about 30,000 jobs a month. This includes medical assistants, physical therapists, home health aids, as well as several others. Currently there is a shortage of nurses in large part due to aging baby boomers. Advances in medicine also are creating more jobs, patients with diseases are now living longer thanks to new medical breakthroughs, but they require more long-term treatment.

· With the pressing issue of global warming, there is a high demand of jobs involving sustainability of the environment. Companies are trying to make their company more environmentally friendly.

· Network administrators are in demand. This job entails designing and managing the physical and technical structure of company’s communication tools. This includes shared files, e-mail, teleconferencing and company Web sites. Demand is particularly soaring in emerging markets like India and China. International business is an area to look into especially if you have a strong knowledge of other cultures and enjoy traveling.

If you are looking for Jobs in Boston, don’t let the news and what people tell you trouble you: they are out there! Check out some of our earlier posts about networking, following up and other tips that will lead to a successful career.

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Great places to meet people tend to be conferences, webinars, tradeshows, or industry gatherings. Don’t be afraid to ask for informational interviews. They are very resourceful and can often times lead to Job Opportunities in Boston.

It is important to stay in contact once in awhile by either placing a call, email, or by sending a greeting around the holidays. Social networking sites are regularly used by millions of people and are an easy way to keep up with your contacts. These sites have become a popular way to search for jobs. LinkedIn is a business oriented social networking site specifically geared to connecting people in order to expand their professional network. Facebook has created a “marketplace” for people that are looking for a job.

You need to put energy and time in if you are using networking to find Jobs in Boston. Organization is imperative to developing your network. I recommend people keep a business card file of some sort or store contracts in their computer or phone. Job search networking may sound a bit intimidating, but is crucial if you’re looking for the right job for you.

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When following up to a Job in Boston you are interviewing for you have three options- Hardcopy, Email or Call. A hardcopy tends to be the most thoughtful of the choices. You may choose to type or hand-write your thank-you note. Sometimes emails can be overlooked and sending a hardcopy gives them a reminder of you every time they come across your letter. An email is appropriate if this is how you were in contact with your interviewer to begin with.

You may choose to make a follow-up phone call to the interviewer after the fifth-sixth day. This makes the interviewer aware of your continued interest in the job and is a chance to ask if there is any further information he/she needs from you. If he/she is not available when you call, leave a message on her voice mail.

If you’re past the time they specified to you that you would hear something, this isn’t necessarily cause for alarm. Hiring often ends up taking longer than anticipated and other priorities can intercede.

Just politely follow up, explain you’re very interested but understand that hiring can take time, and ask if they have an updated timeline.

Often times, people seeking Jobs in Boston are too worried about coming across as desperate. It is not desperate to express your interest in the job or check in to ask about the timeline. However, enthusiasm can cross a line if you are calling more than once a week. Too much enthusiasm can be interpreted as sounding like you’re eager to take any job as opposed to this one in particular. It may also give the impression that this is the only option you have.

If you suspect you’re about to get an offer from another company, you should inform your first-choice company that you’re expecting another offer but their position is your first choice, and ask if there’s any way the company can work with you on the timeline. More often, this can speed things up the company interested in you.

My final advice is that you keep up with the job search while you are waiting to hear. You need to be prepared if you are not offered a position, no matter how well your interview went or how interested the company seemed.

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What most people fail to realize is that the interview doesn’t stop after the first meeting. Your aim is to make a lasting and positive impression, and following up is the key to making this happen. To follow up after an interview is one of the most important aspects of job hunting, as it shows that you are not only interested, but also that you are proactive and self-motivated. Establishing yourself as a confident, assertive and responsible person will certainly make you memorable.

During an interview, naturally everyone is on their best behavior and always putting their best face forward. It is very difficult for potential employers to differentiate candidates they interview, but by contacting your interviewer after a meeting they will set you apart from the rest. It will make your potential employer more confident in your abilities, and also more confident in the fact that you are the right choice to be their next staff member.

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What am I entitled to? Many people attach a stigma to collecting unemployment benefits. But the truth is, your taxes helped pay for these benefits while you were working, and you have a right to collect them under the law. If you have been laid off from jobs in Massachusetts, contact your local unemployment office to find out what you are entitled to receive. The state unemployment office does not just offer financial benefits, they also have training programs and provide support as you look for a new job.

What can I do for the short-term? If you find your unemployment benefits running out, but you still have no job, consider temporary employment. Temp jobs can often lead to permanent positions, and you will have ready money in the meantime. For finding temporary work, your best bet is to contact a professional employment agency. Boston has many job opportunities, and an employment agency may be the most efficient way to find a good match for your job skills.

Where else can I get help? There are many federal and state programs in place that will assist you during your time of need. Consider contacting your church and letting them know of your circumstances. Many churches offer programs which help with everything from job search support to helping to buy your kids’ Christmas presents. Also, check into the eligibility requirements for food stamps through the U.S. government website.

Most of all, when searching for a job during tough economic times, try to keep your head up and your attitude positive. Don’t take an employer’s failure to hire you personally. Keep plugging away, take advantages of any benefits that you are entitled to and in time you will find yourself gainfully employed in a good job.

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While most people have nothing to fear, it’s always a good idea to be prepared if a situation occurs where a new job needs to be found on a moment’s notice. Knowing what you’ll do in the event you need to search specifically for Boston jobs or jobs in Massachusetts will help calm any jitters you have about your job and put your mind more at ease.

Step One: Keep your resume updated

This is a great tip that everyone should follow regardless of the economy. Making sure your resume is current and well written makes looking for jobs in Boston much easier if a situation arises where you need to find other employment.

Step Two: Keep one eye on the present and one toward the future

Know what careers are affected by an economic downturn and which ones are thriving. If you’re in a field that’s being hurt by the ups and downs of the current economy, give thought to what other fields your experience and education would allow you to move to. Having an clear cut idea of what you can do based on what you’ve done and your education helps you to better understand your options.

Step Three: Find an Ally

Finding a job can be difficult, especially if time is of the essence. If you feel that you may soon be laid off because of business cuts, consider contacting a professional employment agency. Boston recruiters study the current market and know what jobs in Boston are available and what career paths are more recession proof.

We live in uncertain economic times but with a little planning, you can be certain that regardless of what the future holds, you’ll land on your feet with a great job!

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Don’t use your work contact information. This is a big no-no. Many employers today monitor phone logs and email traffic – and if you have placed numerous calls or sent and/or received emails from potential employers, you could be in big trouble. Use your personal cell phone number and email account on your resume, and you’ll be in good shape.

Don’t post your resume for all to see. Internet job sites offer an easy way to get your resume out there. The problem is you don’t want your current employer to find it! Many sites like Monster do offer blocking devices that allow you to conceal your contact information and the name of the company where you are employed. In some cases, you can block specific companies from seeing this information as well.

Don’t shout it from the rooftops. Be extremely careful who you talk to about your job search. Inevitably, office gossip spreads and your boss may find out that you are looking for a new job.

Don’t make it obvious. If you always wear jeans to work, then show up in a suit and tie one day, people will wonder what you are up to. Try to schedule interviews at the end or beginning of the day, or take a vacation day, and change in your car if necessary.

Of course, one of the best ways to discreetly hunt for a new position is to utilize the experience of a professional employment agency. Boston has plenty of jobs, and an agency can help you keep your search confidential until you are ready to accept an offer.

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