It’s a great time to bone up on your job search skills, especially if you’ve just graduated and even more so if you’ve never held a “real” job. It’s easy to get so caught up in finishing your education that you neglect your job search (which is an ongoing process, not a one-time thing). Or maybe you have been affected by recent lay-offs in our current economy. Of course, you could always just be ready for something new. No matter why you find yourself looking for a new job, you have to start TODAY, being proactive, using connections you’ve established and getting into a new position that will make you happier. So what’s the best place to start looking for jobs? You picked a good place to start- this post contains info on how to conduct a job search in today’s economy.

The most important part of a job search is connecting with people. It’s always helpful to know people that work at the employers you want to work for. At the very least, that person will be able to clue you in to the company culture, give you an idea of how management works, and help you start forming an opinion about whether you’d like to work there. That same person may also be able to refer you to positions that aren’t publicly posted. Of course, having an internal reference never hurts, either.

Use all of the resources available to you. Whether you have connections or not, search job boards, company career centers and set up job agents so that you are updated when new or applicable jobs are open. Jobs are frequently filled quickly, so make sure to check the relevant job listings every day in the morning, so as not to be beaten by job seekers with more initiative. It’s always a good idea to “put feelers” out there. If you’re finding that there aren’t a lot of jobs out there that fit what you’re looking for, look at joining some professional or academic organizations, as they frequently have members-only job boards as part of their websites. In fact, many associations advertise themselves to employers as a way to target job seekers looking for highly specialized jobs. The benefit of using niche job boards shouldn’t be overlooked either- they can help you focus your job search on the particular positions that are in your area of expertise.

Don’t get discouraged! Job searching is frequently a depressing or frustrating prospect. Don’t let it bother you! Your resume, cover letter and interview will display those feelings if you aren’t careful. The last thing you want potential employers to think is that you’re desperate or that you don’t care. Work hard at staying upbeat and that will come through! Remember: the right job is out there; you just have to find it.