keyword includes any keyword that would apply to your field or any field of your choice.Some of
more popular meta-search engines are as follows:
* JobSleuth - http://www.jobsleuth.com * Job Search Engine - http://www.jobsearchengine.com/ * Wanted Jobs - http://www.wantedjobs.com/ * JobVertise - http://www.jobvertise.com
These meta-search sites reduce number of different sites you'll have to visit by bringing results back to you. Note that JobVertise is not an actual meta-search engine, but it is updated from several different locations periodically.
Another group of time-wasters are "centralized databases." A lot of sites like JobVertise and Wanted Jobs allow smaller job sites to provide a search mechanism into their databases. What this means is that you could hit 20 sites and perform a job search, when in fact, 12 of them are using same source database!
--- Using a Tool ---
I use two great tools for searching and managing information on Web ... especially for job searches. One is a search tool called Copernic (http://www.copernic.com) and other is an organizational tool called Correlate (http://www.correlate.com).
Copernic is a meta-search engine application that runs on your local computer. It allows you to select a category and perform a search on numerous search engines simultaneously. The results are placed in an ordered list of items so that you can select which site to access with a simple double-click. For job searching, this tool is invaluable! When you search in "Job" category, duplicate job postings are grouped together in results list eliminating need to manually filter results.
As for Correlate, it allows you to organize information in a tree structure. You can group items by category and add links to perform organized searches. I use this tool for articles, books, promotions, and job searches on a regular basis. When you find a job that interests you in Copernic, you can drag-n-drop that posting into Correlate!
--- The Presentation ---
Once you locate a matching job opportunity, send them a cover letter and your resume. The cover letter should identify job you're e-mailing about as well as your qualifications to perform job. Also, provide contact information so they can reach you for an interview.
Using Correlate, or some other utility, keep track of jobs you apply for and which ones reply. This way you don't apply for same job a hundred times and you know with whom you are speaking when they contact you.
--- What's next? ---
Once you find your dream job and employer responds, don't panic! Converse with them, whether it be over phone or via e-mail, and negotiate for your position. If you land your first interview, you should be proud. It usually takes a few tries to get it right. Don't feel disappointed if it takes some time to get it right!
One thing to be aware of is that, if a recruiter contacts you, it's probably not a telecommuting position. Most recruiters only work with in-house hires and will usually not contact you again once you claim that you're a telecommuter.
Once you do land a job, now comes hard part ... staying disciplined! That's a different story, but one that's very easy to master.
Good luck!
Edward B. Toupin is a freelance consultant, writer, and published author living in Las Vegas with his singer/actress wife. He currently handles technical writing tasks for various companies in New York, Chicago, and Denver as well as imagineers and markets feature-length screenplays.
