Statistics show that nearly two-thirds of all positions in the workforce are filled by “hidden” job-seeking methods.  Below are descriptions of both “traditional” and “hidden” job-seeking methods.
Job-Seeking Methods

• Help-Wanted Ads in the Newspaper — only 15 percent of all jobs available are listed in the help wanted ads, and competition is fierce because almost everyone reads them.
• Sending out Résumés — almost all job search books recommend it, but doing that alone as a job search method does not work very well.
• Private Employment Agencies — charge fees for finding you a job.  The fees range from 10 to 15 percent of your annual income.
• Georgia Department of Labor, TOPPSTEP — provides assistance to rehabilitated offenders in obtaining and maintaining employment, through one-on-one job counseling and a series of specially designed workshops that will assist in résumé writing, interviewing skills, job search and networking techniques. When going to the Labor office, make sure to ask for the TOPPSTEP representative..
• Local Government Workforce Centers (WIA) — post job openings and will post your résumé for potential employers.  They also provide assistance in résumé writing.  Workforce centers have a number of useful publications to help you choose a career.
• Job Clubs — various community agencies and local churches host job club meetings in their facilities.  The meetings provide job leads, job search tips, and support.
• Warm Contact — let it be known to others that you are seeking employment.  Let friends, relatives, neighbors, former employers, former co-workers, church members, etc., know that you are looking for a job.
• Cold Contact—means going directly to possible employers.  This requires a lot of time and traveling around town.  Cold contacts may not be easy for most, but remember the worst that can happen is that they will say no.
• Public Library—is a great resource for job seekers.  It has directories for local, state, and national organizations, businesses, and  corporations.  Most libraries also have out-of-town newspapers and phone directories for assistance as well.
• School Placement Offices—at private, trade, technical, and vocational schools.  Some prospective employers notify these schools of openings, and schools may reserve these prospects for their own students.
• Trade Magazines and Journals—often list jobs available in their field.  Review only current issues.
• Accept an Entry-Level Position—to get your foot in the door and then volunteer to help with more responsible positions within the business.
• Temporary Help Agencies—are a fast source of income and supply you with helpful experience, even though the pay may be lower and fewer benefits offered.  Many times the temporary job can turn into a full-time position.
• Volunteer Work—shows employers a positive work ethic and may serve as a foot in the door to a potential employer.  It is also an excellent opportunity to network.  If you are volunteering for an organization, ask your volunteer coordinator to be a job reference for you.
• Internet—allows you to browse at your convenience at home and most public libraries.  You can find many different websites containing possible employment opportunities.  Be sure you have no special release conditions prohibiting your use of the Internet.
• Job Card—example of a pocket-sized card to leave with an employer.  These are especially handy for “drop in” or cold contacts for employment.