Need a Job? We Can Help!

Career Fair

Whether you are just beginning a job search or in the middle of one, DBRL has a multitude of resources to assist you.

Here are a few basic tips for job hunting:

  • Cologne, scented hand lotion and aftershave can be a major distraction in an interview situation. The prospective employer might be turned off by the scent and your chance of leaving a good impression is greatly diminished.
  • Taking the time to practice responding to possible questions can really help during the actual interview, particularly if you get nervous during these types of situations. There are a multitude of published resources in the library and online that can give you common interview questions and good responses.  Practicing out loud — even writing down questions and responses — will help you if you suddenly get the deer-in-the-headlights feeling.
  • Most interviews involve some type of question about your strengths and weaknesses as an employee. Make sure your responses are specific to that particular job and you have examples of experiences that highlight your strengths. When talking about a weakness, be sure to also include what steps you have taken to improve that particular skill set.
  • Many companies (even smaller ones) use digital databases to search for candidates. This means that a human resource department will run search queries based on specific keywords. If those words are not found, your resume will be tossed without being seen by anyone.
  • If an employer states that they want a team player, make sure your resume and cover letter highlight specific experiences that show this characteristic.Anything you claim in a cover letter or resume should be backed up by actual experience.

If you find these tips helpful, you might want to attend one of our Job Search Workshops. These free classes are held regularly throughout the year and consist of information on job searching, resume writing and interviewing skills. Our next workshop will be held on Monday, August 6 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Call the library to register.

For the first time ever, the library and the Missouri Job Center are hosting the Missouri Job Center Walk-In Wednesday Hiring Event this summer. The event will be held on Wednesday, July 25 at the Columbia Public Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Friends Room. There will be 10 local employers at the library to recruit for their various positions. Attendees are encouraged to bring their resume and dress for success!

You can also check out our online and other resources for additional assistance.

Online Resources

Here you will find sites on:

  • job listings
  • local, regional, state, national and international employers
  • local job search services
  • general career information
  • employment laws
  • resumes and interviewing
  • library databases

Published Resources

Although this is by no means our complete collection, check out this list of books currently in our collection for additional job hunting information. And hang in there — it only takes one successful job hunt to start the next part of your journey!

 

Image credit: COD Newsroom, Career Fair via Flickr (license)