Newspapers

The classified section of the newspaper is a very common way to search for advertised jobs.  It is also a good way to get ideas about what kinds of jobs are out there that you may be interested in. 

The classified section is usually toward the end of the newspaper.  The most comprehensive classified section is usually included in the Sunday newspaper.  The classified section of the newspaper also includes listings other than job listings.  For example, cars, furniture, pets, and other services are advertised in the classified section.  So make sure you are looking at the job section of the classifieds.

Jobs are usually organized by type of job in the classified section.  Some examples of job type headings in a classified section could include:
Accounting Automotive Computer/Information technology Customer Service Design Distribution/Shipping Education Engineering Executive	Facilities Finance Government Healthcare/Nurse Legal Management Manufacturing Marketing Media-Journalism - Newspaper	Nonprofit - Social services Other Part-time Restaurant - Food Services Retail Sales Skilled Labor/Trades Telecommunications Transportation

Check all local newspapers, as different jobs may be posted in different papers.  When you are looking for jobs, circle or highlight the jobs you are interested in to keep track of them. Most advertisements in the classified section of a newspaper are rather brief.  This means that you may have to call to find out more specific, detailed information about the job. 

Here are some examples of a typical job posting in a classified section of a newspaper:

What's the next step?

If you find jobs you are interested in, the next step is to contact the person or company listed.  You can do this by emailing them or by calling them on the phone.

Emailing has become a popular form of communication.  Many people prefer email because they can think through and edit what they write before sending it. 

Be sure to say "thank you" in both an email or a phone call.  Politeness always helps!

The objective in an email is to:

• State which job position you are interested in and express your interest in the job.
• Concisely state your main qualifications.  For example, briefly describe a past experience (work or training), skill set, interest, or personal characteristic (hard worker, detail-oriented, visual thinker, etc.) that relates to the job.  Tell them why you are a good fit. 
• Attach your resume. State that you are attaching it so they know to look for it.
• Express interest in talking to the person in the future.
• Give your contact information.

You will also want to make sure you know the name of the person you are sending the email to. If you don’t know their name, you start the email by saying "To whom it may concern,".

Here is an example of what to write in an email:

Dear Mr. Walters, I am writing to you to express my interest in the accounting position at Bartlett Bank.  I have an Associate’s degree in accounting from Harrison Community College, and mathematics has always been a strength for me.  I am very detail-oriented, and would be an excellent fit for this position.  I am attaching my resume for your consideration.  I am very interested in learning more about the job and would look forward to speaking to you about the position.  Please feel free to contact me at george@do2learn.com or (555) 555-0611.   Thanks, George Harold

If you call about a job, prepare a script of what to say beforehand. Write it down.  A lot of people get nervous before making an important phone call like this, and having a visual reminder of what to say really can make a difference.  Prepare a list of questions you may have about the job as well.

For example, you may want to ask:

• The hours of the job
• Whether the job is part time or full time
• The location of the job

More specific information about the job, such as how much you will be earning, detailed information about job duties, or information about vacation time, should wait until a later time.

Here is an example of telephone script to inquire about a job posting:

"Hi Mr. ____. My name is ___.  I saw that there is an opening at ____ for ____ in the newspaper.  I am very interested in this job.  Can I fill out an application for this position or how should I go about applying for the job?"

Voicemails should be brief - under one minute is best.  Be sure to include your name, the reason you are calling, and the best way to reach you.

After this introduction, your conversation will vary depending on how the other person responds. That is why making a phone call can be a bit trickier than sending an email - you have less time to think about your responses!

You may be connected to someone’s voicemail if you call them.  Plan ahead of time so that you are prepared.  Write down a script for what to say on someone’s voicemail ahead of time.  You want to sound friendly and professional.  

Here is an example of what to say on someone’s voicemail:

"Hi Mr. ___.  My name is ____.  I am calling about the job posting at Bartlett Bank that I saw in this Sunday’s newspaper.  Banking is a great interest of mine, and I am eager to hear more about the position.  Please call me at your earliest convenience at (989) 555-3433.  Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.  Good bye."