Finding a job on Craigslist is simpler than you think. In fact, I got one of my most recent jobs using Craigslist. That’s right, an entrepreneur posted an ad, I answered it, we met, and I got the job.
You see, I do social marketing, SEO, and other internet marketing activities for local businesses and entrepreneurs in my area. This is in addition to writing on this blog, running about a dozen other websites, being an affiliate marketer and article writer (I guess I should throw mom and wife in there too;)
In looking for new clients to work with, I often look at the listings on Craigslist. Guess what? I always find something of interest. What I like about Craigslist is the fact that a lot of owners or key decision makers of small businesses post the ads themselves AND do the hiring. There’s little bureaucracy so you’ll know rather quickly whether or not you’re being considered for the position.
I also like the fact that a lot of companies are just looking for contract workers or part-time or temporary workers. This works well for me. I like having relationships with a number of local businesses. It keeps things interesting, and I get to work with different types of companies and people.
I came across a great article about how to get a job through Craigslist by Guy Kawasaki. It was posted in 2007 but is still relevant today. The following is a list of what Guy says are the most important factors when looking to apply for a job on Craigslist:
- Apply fast. If you wait a few days, employers who advertise on Craigslist may already fill the job. Indeed, looking for a job is a job, so don’t take a few days off (for example, the weekend) from your search. In fact, I find Saturdays and Sundays to be a great day to apply for a job on Craigslist.
- Write a cover email that addresses the position. Don’t just attach your resume to your response. The worst thing to an employer is laziness. Show you care enough about the position to take the time to write a well-thought-out cover letter.
- Rise to the occasion. If the employer asks for you to complete a “test” to make sure you are truly qualified for the position, then complete the test if the position is something you truly want.
- Apply well. Go above and beyond the expectations if the opportunity presents itself. For instance, if the employer asks you to complete a “test,” then do the test and maybe go one step further with it, or suggest something you would do next. Basically, show the employer that you can take initiative and that you’re not lazy. Most companies would love to find the one candidate that stands head and shoulders above the others, so be that person by applying really well. Ask yourself this simple question: “If I were hiring for this position, what would impress me?”
- Don’t be stupid. In some instances, honesty, is not the best policy: either don’t mention your lack of qualifications, or spend ten minutes to go figure out what it is the employer is asking you to know for the position. If it looks like something you can learn in a reasonable amount of time (you don’t want to lie), then learn it! A lot of times, employers may want you to know a certain application or program, but don’t need you to be an expert in it.
- Be personable (I added this one in). Your cover email should allow your personality to come through. If the ad also included the hiring person’s name, then use it. Show that you really read the job description and make mention of how your skills will pertain to the job’s individual tasks, responsibilities, and/or qualifications.
So what are you waiting for? Head over to Craigslist now and look for your next full-time, part-time, or temporary job!
To read more on this topic on Guy’s blog, go to How To Get a Job on Craigslist by Guy Kawasaki.
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