Tip #1 -- Get Your Job Search Essentials in Order
For your part-time job, you're going to need an up-to-date resume, a computer with a high-speed Internet connection, and a telephone. In finding part time employment, your focus should be more on finding something that fits into your schedule and abilities, than finding something in your ideal field.
Avoid noisy places when making phone calls and setting up interviews. When you get a call from potential employer, you don't want to sound unprofessional. Similarly, you definitely don't want to lose your current job while searching for your part-time position, so it's probably best to avoid any activities related to your job search at your current place of employment. Do not use your office phone number or your office e-mail for your job search activities (more on this below).
It helps to find a secluded place where you can do your research, free from interference or interruption. A good spot to go is a public library, especially if you have a laptop and can find a good study space that allows the use of cellphones or has a nearby area where you can talk on the phone.
Tip # 2 -- Set Up Email Accounts
You will need to set up a separate e-mail account exclusively for your job search activities. Many employers monitor corporate email activity, so just because you sent something from your "private" account doesn't exactly mean it's private.
Free accounts are available from any number of online service providers such as Google, Yahoo! and Microsoft. Be careful when logging on to a public computer: set up your account on a trusted machine and be sure to sign out of your email account if you leave the machine even for a moment.
Now that you have your resume perfected and free of errors, write a polite letter of introduction that can be modified for any position before beginning your job search. Many job candidates do not get a position because of a single misspelling on their resume or contact information.
Planning your search is as important, if not more important, than anything else you will do to find a new position. You can submit your resume to 1000 positions as a part-time welder, but if there is no welding experience on your resume, you will not get a single call, because a computer search for welder never saw your name. The only part-time jobs to which you will get any response are for those requiring no experience. It follows that if you are looking for a job requiring certain experience; your well-crafted, well-written and typographically correct resume must effectively display your previous experience and qualifications.
Tip #3 -- Use Online Resources
Job-search websites are an important tool for viewing and sorting through thousands of job listings online. Understanding how these sites work, what jobs they list, and what jobs they don't list is very important. Job search engine sites, such as monster.com and careerbuilder.com have millions of listings for positions. Websites such as indeed.com and simplyhired.com also exist that amalgamate jobs from multiple search engines, all in one convenient location.
Aside from the general sites, there are a number of vertically targeted job search engines that specialize in particular fields, kinds of jobs, and compensation. Try searching Google for "your town job board" (e.g. "New Jersey job board") or "industry job board" (e.g. "construction job board").
Find an online job board that works well for you and use it. It's important with these websites that you make sure your searches are very specific in their geographical location, as well as in the category of positions you're searching.
Also think about schedule. If your current position requires you to work in an office during the day, a retail position on the weekends or restaurants in the evening will make the most sense for you. Narrow down your job search to find only those that match your availability.
Tip #4 - Get Your Name Out There
Searching online and applying online is only half the battle. Networking is a crucial part of every job search, and can greatly expedite your search. Always have a copy of your resume with you and call or email everyone you know to see if they know of any positions for you. Most jobs never appear on the job search engines. When networking with someone, don't forget to ask the person for referrals to other contacts and don't forget to thank everyone who helps you or tries to help you (even if their leads wind up as dead ends).
Another positive about having your resume out there is that a recruiter might see it and offer you a full-time position. Instead of having to juggle two jobs, you might find a new job better than the one you are currently at.
Tip #5 -- Stay Positive
Be confident in your abilities, and don't be dejected if you don't find what you're looking for right away. Before you get the "welcome aboard," chances are you will be turned down by many people and computers. Don't take this personally -- there is always a job out there for you, so move on to the next opportunity.
Tip #6 -- Be Persistent
Keep posting to job boards and keep networking; persistence and diligence are the keys to success. Do not slow down your search just because you got an interview. Keep going until you have a job you are pleased with that pays what you want and fits your schedule. The best time to look for part-time opportunities is when you are already employed. Keep looking until you land a part-time position that meets your needs and pays your bills.
If an "OK" part-time position comes along, grab it. You can still continue searching for better opportunities.
Tip #7 -- Keep Your Guard Up
The only negative to adding your resume to job boards attracts a host of junk mail, dishonest offers, false offers, and advertisements for unneeded or unwanted services.
Follow this rule: if you receive an offer for anything other than a specific position with specified wages and specific hours, treat it like trash. If the person contacting you is offering you an "opportunity" or "help with your resume," be wary, because it is more likely an opportunity for them, not you.
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