9 Essential Job Search Tips for Everyone
With our overarching goal of increasing employability and independence for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities, we are incredibly aware of the importance of all aspects of the job search process.
Figuring out what you want to do (and whether you can do it) is the first part of the process. But after you identify a job that you want, you have to go out and win that position.
These tips are pretty universal for anyone on the hunt for a job and the advice that we give our Quality Connections members:
- Accurately Fill Out Job Applications: Try to provide as much information as possible and double check to make sure all fields are filled out accurately and completely. Pay special attention to details such as dates of employment, references, and contact information.
- Maintain a Consistent Job History: Employers value longevity and stability in candidates. If you have short-term positions, be prepared to explain the reasons for leaving and highlight any skills or experiences gained during those roles.
- Dress Appropriately for Interviews: Make a positive first impression by researching the company culture and dress code beforehand, and choosing attire that reflects the organization.
- Confidence is Key: Project confidence in yourself and your abilities throughout the hiring process. Prepare for interviews by practicing common interview questions and articulating your strengths and experiences. Remember to maintain eye contact, speak clearly, and demonstrate enthusiasm for the opportunity.
- Be Knowledgeable About Your Availability: Employers appreciate candidates with flexible schedules who can accommodate varying work hours. Clearly communicate your availability, but also be open to discussing scheduling options.
- Explore Various Employment Options: Keep an open mind when exploring job opportunities. Be willing to consider a different position if it aligns with your skills and interests. Flexibility can open doors to unexpected opportunities and career growth.
- Follow Up Proactively: After submitting an application, don’t wait passively for a response. Take initiative by following up with hiring managers or recruiters to express your continued interest in the position. Sending a “thank you” email or making a phone call shows your commitment to the opportunity.
- Highlight Volunteer Activities: Volunteer work is work and those experiences can provide valuable skills relevant to potential employers. Don’t minimize the importance of volunteer work on your resume or during interviews.
- Engage with Hiring Staff In Person: Whenever possible, take the initiative to engage with hiring staff or managers in person. Attend job fairs and networking events to make meaningful connections and express your interest in available positions. Building that face-to-face rapport can leave a lasting impression.
By incorporating these tips into your job search strategy, you’ll set yourself apart from other candidates and demonstrate your proactive approach, adaptability, and professionalism.
If you are looking for a job right now, all of us here at Quality Connections wish you the best of luck!
Meet Amy Ainge, Employment Services Program Manager
Amy Ainge was first introduced to Quality Connections a few years back when she was doing a three-part balancing act: full-time nursing student, single Mom to three young girls, and holding down a part-time position providing habilitation services for a person who was also a Quality Connections client.
One day, she ran into the then head of Employment Services at Quality Connection, Kelly Arnold, who told Amy she was impressed with the work Amy was doing with their mutual client. Would she be interested in joining the Quality Connections staff as a Job Coach?
Amy was intrigued, but worried about finding child care for her three girls, particularly as this was the height of the pandemic. Kelly assured her it wasn’t a problem; QC had just started QC Kids, a free in-house childcare service for its employees. (QC Kids eventually evolved into Evergreen Preschool Academy). In fact, Amy brought her children with her to her job interview.
It wasn’t long after joining Quality Connections that Amy realized she was enjoying her part-time job coach position far more than nursing school.
“I loved the passion of everyone here and the passion that it brought out in me,” she said. “I quickly realized I would always want to work with this demographic and couldn’t imagine not serving them.”
One of the rewarding parts of being a job coach is watching Quality Connections members open up during the job search process.
“You have to help them find their niche and with a lot of clients, you have to help break down walls,” she said. “But after that, you get to find out who they are and what their likes are. Then you go out into the community and build relationships with partners, because some of our clients need roles carved out for them. We are really blessed in Flagstaff because there are so many people who are willing to carve out those roles.”
Recently, Amy was promoted into a supervisory position, in charge of five job coaches. The group manages anywhere from 80 to 100 clients at any given time. Amy maintains a small caseload herself, and it’s a part of the job she loves the most.
“I think a lot of our members were taught not to take up too much space,” she said. “They need someone to be their advocate and help them build up their confidence, and when they do – it’s like watching them blossom like flowers.”
