Directories? How can they help me find a job?

Directories? How can they help me find a job? Aren't they just lists of companies, corporations, associations and things like that? Well, yes, but that is what you need when looking for a job. If you want a job in the hotel industry or engineering or construction, it helps to know something about the company or organization.

For an active job search, you can't just rely on posted job ads, want ads, job banks, or placement agencies, especially to get a job in something you like. With a directory you can see how large or small a company is, find names of people to contact, website and mailing addresses, phone  and fax numbers, all the information you need to contact them directly.

Many company's with available positions post them on their own websites. You can often see if there are opportunities for advancement, which may help you decide, "Is this a place I would like to work?" Even if there are no postings listed, you can send in a resume, targetting your skills to fit the company's needs. You can impress them with your knowledge and interest in the company with your cover letter, mentioning information about that particular company. They may not need someone at the moment, but if impressed, may contact you or keep you in mind for the future. For all you know, "Janice" or "Charlie" may resign the next day or a week later and there is your resume, at the right place at the right time!

Directories can offer you leads and openings to some of the "hidden" job markets, as well as to greater information about a company that may just give you the "edge" with your resume, cover letter, and especially for your interview. When you see a job ad or a placement agency is sending you for an interview, use the directory to learn something about the company or organization.

Some directories are available online through the library's website, some from your home with your library card,  and some only at either of the research branches, North York Central Library and Toronto Reference Library. Many are available in print form and are listed in the library's catalogue. Two of the most popular are Scott's and Associations Canada, but, SURPRISE!, just as with jobs, there are those "hidden" directories.

Many magazines publish an issue each year which includes a directory or buyer's guide. These are often not listed in the library's catalogue but you can come to the North York Central Library's Business Department on the 4th floor. One of our librarians keeps an "eagle eye" out for these. She pulls them out and adds them to a list of titles and subjects in a binder in our Directory area, making it easy for you to find that SPECIAL directory. It may have something to do specifically with the automotive industry, the food industry, real estate. Here are some examples on topics dear to my heart. Come to the library find some on topics that appeal to you.