There are so many different job searching tools and resources out there, sometimes it’s hard to know where to begin. Let me first say the best odds of finding a job are through people you know well. Don’t be ashamed to let your friends and family members know you’re looking for a job. You may want to consider writing a 20-second “elevator pitch” describing your background and the type of job you’re looking for.

Unless your profession is something easily understood like a college Spanish professor or a restaurant manager, chances are good that you have close friends and family members who aren’t clear on what you do for a living. So your first mission is to come up with a simple way to explain it to them, and then secondly to convey what it is you’re looking for. You might try writing out a paragraph for each first and then simplifying those thoughts further. The use analogies and visual images in your descriptions will make it easier for people to understand.

Beyond networking with close friends and family, consider some of these tips for finding a new job:

1. Networking Events– If you live in or close to a city, chances are there are loads of networking events happening all the time. The best ones are those for your specific industry or profession.

2. Job Boards– Searching for job listings that match your background and interests can be time consuming. There are lots of job sites out there. Recruiters do use them though and many people have found jobs this way.