Job-hunting has never proved to be a pleasurable occasion. In fact, most of us dread the thought of having to go out there and find the perfect job. Regardless of whether you are a fresh graduate or have been working for quite a while, a myriad of emotions are involved in job hunting which many would be able to relate to. Therefore, the realization that millions of people embark on a vague job-hunting expedition every day, throughout the planet, should provide you with reasonable consolation.

Besides being 'at the right place at the right time', it is important that you 'make the first impression the best impression'. To begin with, do not set any limitations to the sources, which you would rely on to finding job opportunities. Being patient and consistent in your efforts would surely bring about satisfactory results. No one wants to be led 'from the frying pan to the fire'!

The best way to begin this journey would be to do a self-analysis. Creating an inventory of your skill sets would enable you to match them to a job profile, which would suit you. The best method to proceed with your inventory would be to create a list of your pros and cons. Then, study your skills, experience and qualifications. Put your personality under the scanner as well. This inventory would guide you to selecting the right job profile and position.

Compare the contents of the inventory to your current resume. If they do not seem to match, then update your resume. In the process, ensure that your recent accomplishments and experiences are highlighted. Include skill sets, which you possess and potential employers would seek for, in your resume.

If you feel that you do possess certain skills but have not had any opportunity to apply it, mentioning these skills while applying to a related job, would be beneficial. Similarly, avoid details pertaining to your hobbies and personal interests, which are not relevant to the job profile.

Now that you have prepared the initial requirements for job hunting, the next process would be to start scouting for a job. One very efficient method of doing so would be to begin networking as it ensures that you are amidst people who are either working in jobs, which you aspire for or are linked to these jobs.

As an ideally effective networker you would have to apply some or all of the methods mentioned below:

- Identify and join a professional association, which is related to your job profile.

- Register in online social / business networks where like minded individuals, employees and employers frequent. Some popular online networks such as linkedin.com and ryze.com offer a suitable platform for such purposes. This would also ensure that you are abreast with the current trends and requirements, which match your job profile. Effective networking is an ongoing process. Regularly communicating with those who are in your network and attending meetings and seminars, which are relevant to your job profile, would prove to be highly beneficial. Maintain a good rapport with your old friends and colleagues in your network, as you never know when you would need their assistance. 

- Register with a recruiter or job consultant. These professionals would be able to guide you to jobs, which would suit your profile and better opportunities. This would prevent you from having to scan the numerous resources, thus reserving your time and effort for more fruitful tasks. So, it is advisable that you provide precise information about your experiences, skills and preferences to the recruiter or consultant.

- You would also need to do some research on companies which you intend to target and look into the profiles they offer to potential employees. A thorough study of the industry, employees and jobs can be done by gathering information from business magazines, newsletters and websites. By doing so, you would be well informed with the many nuances linked to this field, which would prepare you for the interviews.

- Create a list of prospective employers and obtain information about their current

developments and business status. Look for avenues, which would enable you to study the employers' outlook on job profiles. Some employers may not advertise for certain openings in their companies and it would be advisable that you contact them directly to enquire about the availability of a suitable job.

Never reveal that you are job-hunting to any of your current colleagues or employer until you have secured another job as it may cause a negative impact on your current working environment. Refrain from communicating with prospective employers from your current official contact numbers or email address. Do not quit your current job until you have secured another position elsewhere. The prospects of you being hired are much higher if you are still employed while applying for another job.

When attending interviews, it is vital that you are punctual, well equipped and appear presentable and confident. By following all of the abovementioned techniques persistently, you should be able to find a suitable job for yourself. However, positive results may not occur instantaneously. With patience and continuous effort, you would be able to succeed in obtaining optimal success from job hunting.

-Sheeba Riyas hails from Chennai, India, and has experience as a corporate trainer. She writes for the Indiana-based actum group which focuses on health and corporate training issues.