Confused by the new rules of job search?    Do you feel like you are spinning your wheels and not getting anywhere?  Read  The Web 2.0 Job Finder: Winning Social Media strategies to get the job you want from Fortune 500 Hiring Pros by Brenda Greene and Coleen Byrne.  

Finding a job has never been more difficult or more competitive.   The authors do a good job of simplifying the process and helping the applicant understand the mentality of Fortune 500 recruiters.   Using interviews with 35 recruiters and other research, the authors explain the necessity of using social networking tools such as Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook to promote your “digital brand.”   These interviews are particularly revealing.   Recruiters explain how your “30 second pitch” is more important than a traditional cover letter that might not even get read.

The authors start by explaining how to create, develop, and maintain an online presence and brand.    They also explain clearly how to: adopt best practices for getting a job by writing skill (not job!) specific resumes, target jobs that match your skills and anticipate what a company needs.   Chapter 3 is a great introduction to LinkedIn and the “hidden job market.”  

Brenda Greene also wrote Get the Interview Every time: Proven Resume and Cover Letter Strategies from Fortune 500 Hiring Professionals.

Are you searching for a job?   Here are some helpful web pages. 

Resources for Job Seekers     from the sjpl.org website

Teen College and Job Resources      from the sjpl.org website

Work2Future     a helpful local organization

Indeed     a search tool

Interviewing     from monster.com

Research and Homework     from the sjpl.org website

Build a Resume that Packs a Punch!

Are you frustrated with your job search? Give ourself the edge by learning how best to prepare your resume.

Come to the Edenvale Branch Library on Thursday, October 6, 2011 at 10:00 am for this useful workshop.

Alviso Branch Library has one on one appointments available for people needing assistance with their resumes, interviewing and job searches. Appointments are available on the following dates and times:

• Wednesday June 1st: 4:00-6:00 PM
• Saturday June 11th: 1:00-3:00 PM
• Wednesday June 15th: 4:00-6:00 PM
• Tuesday June 21st: 6:00-8:00 PM

Pre-registration is required so please contact the branch at 408-263-3626 to sign up.

Not able to make it to the branch checkout the resources available on our website.

Are you interested in exploring new career options?  You are welcome to join B. J. King to embark on your journey on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the Edenvale Branch Library Community Room.

Now is the perfect time to explore important questions about your job search:

            What kind of job do I REALLY want?

            Do I want to change careers?

            What is the perfect career for me?

            What is my passion?

Other job and career oriented programs that the Edenvale Branch Library offers are:

Job Searching on the Internet and Computer Help

            Tuesdays from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

            Tuesdays from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

The Alviso Branch Library is seeking a motivated volunteer to help coach job seekers with job searches and resume questions. Come and meet your neighbors and make new friends by sharing your time and abilities with the community.There are a variety of volunteer opportunities for both teens and adults at the library. Click here for more information on volunteering at San Jose Public Library as well as other volunteer opportunities at your local library.