Pounding the Pavement

Sometimes, the best way to find a job is to walk into as many businesses as possible and fill out applications until you get hired. Here are a few suggestions before you head to the street.

Before You Start

On The Hunt

Most job applications ask for the same thing, so you’ll want to have the following information available before you head out:

Name
Address
Phone number
Email address
Social security number
Education
Names, addresses and phone numbers of your last 3-5 jobs
Dates you worked at your last 3-5 jobs
Names of the supervisors from your last 3-5 jobs
Date you are available to start
Resume
References

You should have a good idea of what businesses you want to apply to before you head out. It’s a good idea to call them before you visit to find out the following information:

Make sure they are hiring
Find out the name of the person that does the hiring and the best day and time to stop in and talk to that person

While you're out job hunting it is important to remember these tips:

Bring a pen. This will show that you are responsible and capable of planning ahead.
Have a neat appearance. Wear nice clothing. Make sure your hair is cut and styled and your fingernails are clipped. Do not chew gum while talking to a potential employer.
Ask to speak to the manager or supervisor that does the hiring. It always helps you stick out from a pile of applications if you have had face-to-face contact with the person who does the hiring.
Be prepared for an on-the-spot interview. It is always possible that a potential employer may want to sit down and talk with you right then and there.
Make a follow up call about a week later. This shows responsibility and is an indicator that you really want the job.

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