Angst Corner

The right job search will lead you to the right job. Do it the wrong way and you will end up in a rut. The guildlines illustrated below will help you in your job search by putting you in the right direction. These guideline are true for everyone - irrespective of the geography, race, language and politics.

Applying for the job

• Read the ad properly - It won't do you good if you are a fresher applying for a senior's position and vice versa. Also, it will be a total waste of time of everyone involved if you apply for a job that you can't perform at all. Make a wise decision by reading the ad carefully.
• Get the right person's email address - Make sure the one you are sending your resume is from the HR department itself and not to the procurement department or so. If possible, call up the company and get the person's email address, this works better than a generic email address of the HR department.
• Research the firm - this is an old, tried and tested guideline but works well in every scenario. During interview you should not come across as ignorant to the firm'snature of work, objectives, goals, etc. This is basic knowledge and you better have it before the interview
• Google yourself - do you have a good online presence or one that would make your prospective employers cringe in their seats? Do a check and remove all those drunken photographs on social networking sites. Your employers doesnt expect you to be perfect but does not expect to see scandalizing stories about you as well

Negotiating the Salary

• Unless you are very very desperate do not say yes to the offer right away. Take time to study the offer and get to know benefits, bonus possibilities, and opportunities for training and/or other education. Most companies do not have a problem with prospective employees taking a day or two to study the offer and make a call
• Get a general idea of the salary range by asking around. You do not want to be in the deprived category do you? Then put your cards on the negotiating table
• Negotiation means compromise. You won't get everything you want. Do not make demands or provide ultimatums, that's just bad scene. Maintain a congenial atmosphere as you negotiate and create a win-win situation.

Wish you all the best in your job hunt.