The
library. The hallowed halls of dusty old books and antiseptic study cubes. Not exactly the most invigorating place in the world, is it? Or is it? I guess it depends on your definition of invigorating. But when it comes
to job search, the library can be research heaven.
Enclosed within those walls are the consistently untapped job search resources that could contain your lead into the world of work. The library has a near-virtual
lock on providing one thing and one thing very well: information. And for job search, the library is your job search information center.
If you're a stranger to the library or only make visits to stock up on twenty
books to build your bibliography section for your latest research paper, now is the time to bring your relationship up to the next level. The library contains information on career research, companies, industries,
associations, and most of all, jobs.
You'll be gathering a large amount of information in your library expedition, so it's important to have a system in place for capturing and utilizing this information. The simple
mechanics behind using this information effectively is to develop a personal storage and retrieval system that works well for you in your job search. The most basic system involves setting up a filing system whereby you
store copies of information (it's always easier to put it down on the glass and clunk your coin than to scribe the info by hand) in manila folders labeled by topic, industry or by specific company. A particularly
effective use of this "pure paper" system is to have an expandable folder or plastic filing case that you can carry with you. This allows for simple organization of the information, while making it immediately
accessible and centrally located.
Another storage and retrieval system that provides greater uniformity (but a greater amount of time in developing) is a simple paper database format, such as 3x5 cards or a job
search notebook. The job search notebook can be large enough to accommodate copied information to be cut and pasted in. The greatest virtue of this type of system is consistency.
If you have access to a computer
(especially if you have a laptop PC) you might consider organizing your information with database or personal information manager (PIM) software. My recommendation is to use a PIM such as Maximizer, ACT!, or Lotus
Organizer. In addition, there are several products developed specifically for job search. JobHunt™ software (Scope International, 704-535-0614) is one of the best, since it gives you a jump start by including a
pre-seeded database of over 6,000 companies in the database, to which you can add any additional contacts you have generated through your personal network or personal research. In fact, I like the software so much that
I included a free coupon in my book to provide a copy by mail for all who purchase the book. JobHunt can also be purchased through most computer stores and bookstores.
As you begin your company research project, keep
your objective clearly in mind: to capture company information for later contact and follow-up. Don't capture information just for the sake of building a database. This is not just a "feel good" activity
designed to help you feel like you're accomplishing something. It is a practical, one-at-a-time gathering of company information in preparation for future contact. If you don't intend to contact the company, don't
gather the information. But at the same time, don't be so narrow in your approach that you exclude companies that you are were not previously aware of. That's what research is about--uncovering potential new avenues for
your job search.
One of your greatest allies in your job search is the Research Librarian. This person has trained their entire life just to help you locate that elusive bit of information that could generate your
eventual job offer. Get to know this person. They can truly make the difference in finding that "right" company. You will find most of the library materials with the best information are in the Reference
section and not available for check out. These reference guides will keep you busy manually or photo copying information.
An important point to consider in doing your library research is that some of the best job
search information might not be located at the library. It may be located instead at your campus Career Placement office, which typically has a library of its own and information that is specifically geared to your job
search. Make sure you are equally comfortable with accessing either library of information in your job search. In addition, the Career Placement office has another invaluable resource to guide you in your search:
professional career counselors who can serve as your guide and mentor.
In my next column I will steer you directly to where to find the jobs in print. There are several research guides dedicated specifically to
guiding you in your quest. Assisting you in reaching out to companies far beyond the bounds of your campus. Giving you direct access to hiring companies. And putting you in contact with what may be your eventual first
job!
P.S. You can also check out my book at your library or Placement Center. If they don't have it, they can order it through NACSCORP, Baker & Taylor, Ingram, or Quantum Leap Publishing.
