Finding home employment can seem like a game of hide-and-seek. Searching the Internet for these jobs can give you the impression that the jobs are everywhere and you just haven't been given the key to find them.
Well, it's true. You do need the key. I'll show you the key and how to use it.
Effective Searching Methods
In order to find those elusive home jobs you've got to search correctly. A game of hide-and-seek can always be won if you look in the right places.
To start with, you must utilize the search engine at job sites using the correct keywords. Since different sites use different search criteria, it's a good idea to read that small print beside the search box which tells you how to search. Once you know this you can plug in the right keywords.
On the whole, most search engines allow you to search for an exact phrase by using quotation marks. For instance, typing in "data entry" will return results that match this phrase.
Keywords: Which Ones Do I Use?
To help you zero in those jobs here are some keywords that work well for me: "work at home", "work from home", "telecommuting", " telecommute", "telecommuter", "home based", "home worker", "freelancers", "contract job","contract freelance", "remote worker", "telework", "online", "Internet", "virtual office", "home office", "virtual worker", "off-site", "offsite".
Search The Job Banks
Search the online job banks for home employment opportunities. You can find these job sites by going to any major search engine and typing in "employment" or "jobs". Here are some of my favorite sites:
Job Search Sites:
JobsOnLine.com
JobSearchEngine.com
Jobvertise.com
WantedJobs.com
JobOptions.com
BrassRing.com
Resume Posting Sites
Employment911.com
CareerShop.com
Net-Temps.com
Monster.com
HeadHunter.net
Guru.com
Search Local Job Sites and Newspapers
I live in a county of 400,000 people and we have 4 online job sites serving this area.
You can find these job sites by going to any major search engine and typing the name of a city or state. For any city with a sizable population you'll find numerous links leading you into the local job market. Just because jobs are offered in a local market doesn't mean there aren't home employment opportunities. It's worth browsing the ads!
While you're at it, search local and national newspapers for jobs. Online newspapers have numerous classifieds and links to job sites. Again, use a search engine or try these sites to find national and local online newspapers:
ABYZ News Links
NewsPapers.com
Search The Industry
Using a search engine you can hunt for companies doing business in your field of interest. Use keywords which describe the type of work you're looking for. Things like "data entry", "web design". etc.
When you find a company, go to their employment or opportunities section. Submit your resume on positions for which you are qualified and can be done remotely.
But what if the ad doesn't specify whether or not the duties of the position can be performed at home? And how receptive is the employer to hiring you as a telecommuter? You won't know unless you send them your resume. If you're qualified, send it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained!
Your Resume Can Make or Break You
You only have one chance to make an impression with employers and recruiters. Your resume is it.
Your resume is you. It absolutely has to be the best it can be. If you already have a resume, update it with your current skills and experience. If you need to make one, learn how to write it professionally or hire someone to do it for you.
You'll be searching for a job till the cows come home if your resume is sloppy and poorly written. I'm not sure when cows come home, but let's assume it's a long time.
You should also prepare a cover letter. In some cases your cover letter is even more important than your resume. It serves as an introduction and gives the recruiter insights into your credentials, your interest in the company, and what you can offer. To have an real impact, your cover letter should address a specific person whenever possible.
One final word...
Be persistent. Search and post your resume every day. The jobs are out there. Now go get 'em!
Brett Krkosska provides how-to advice on family and home-based work issues. Get start-up guidance, business ideas and inspiration at http://HomeBizTools.com. Become a subscriber for a fresh and original perspective on today's business issues. Used with permission.
Related reading:
