Conducting an effective job search requires a clear understanding of the job market and the know how to use some of the skills and techniques. Here are some myths and misconceptions concerning the effective methods for achieving success, followed by corresponding realities.

Myth 1: Anyone can find a job in today's low unemployment job market.

Reality: The job market of Malaysia has been the employees' market for the recent years. However, it does not follow that anyone who possesses intelligence and concrete work skills can effortlessly find a good job. Having positive attitudes and self-esteem, abilities of setting goals and solving problems, skills of interpersonal communications may help in succeeding job search. But more importantly, he must know where to find a job a post-industrial and high-tech society. The visible job market in which vacancies are advertised in media channels is highly fragmented and chaotic. On the other hand, the hidden job market in which vacancies are not advertised but passing through word-of-mouth, is still unknown to most job seekers.

Myth 2: Employers hire the best qualified candidates. Inexperienced job seekers do not stand a good chance in the competitive job market.

Reality: Employers seldom hire the best qualified candidates because "qualifications" are difficult to define and measure in any job interview. Personal traits and other virtuous aspects of an individual such as being purposeful, persistent, pleasant, competent, intelligent, honest, independent, confident and well-mannered, can possibly be measured in a job interview. Employers want value for their money and do not hire people for no reason. Being an inexperienced applicant, do not emphasize your own demands and never volunteer your weaknesses by saying "I'm sorry I don't have such experience..." On the contrary, you should define employer's goals or needs as your skills and strengths, and you might end up in the driver's seat.

Myth 3: Job seekers should not try to use contacts or connections to get a job.

Reality: Employers hire people who can contribute more than they worth. Employers care less whether applicants make use of contacts or have connections with whom they know. Moreover, if an applicant is strongly recommended by someone the employer knows and trusts, his chances of getting a job is higher than one without. Standing in line for a job often reduces possibilities of being selected, or even being noticed. If for one reason or another job seekers prefer to apply through front door like everyone else when he can use personal contacts, it is because they just want to test their luck. They are probably not serious enough in getting a job. uperiors

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