Where to Look for Work: Online and Offline

Job Search on Your Phone: A Simple Guide for Skilled and Daily Wage Workers · Find and Apply · 4 min read · Updated

Many ways to find work

  1. Start by being clear about what work you do and where.
  2. Look online, on job sites and apps, and read each job fully.
  3. At the same time, ask people and visit local employers and training centres.
  4. Write every contact in a simple list, so you can follow up at the right time.

There is no single place for all jobs. People get work in many ways. The best plan is to use several at the same time. A phone helps with all of them. In this lesson you will learn where to look, and how to keep track.

1. Job websites and apps

Many sites list jobs for drivers, cooks, electricians, security guards, warehouse workers and more. On this site, you can look at jobs here. You can also look at jobs by country. Use the search box with your trade and your town, for example *electrician Pune*. Use filters for the place and the type of work.

  • Open the job and read all of it, not only the title.
  • Look for the company name, the town, the pay or pay range, the hours and how to apply.
  • A job with no company name, no place and no clear work is a warning sign.

2. People you know

Many jobs in trades and daily work come through people. Tell your family, neighbours, old colleagues and friends what work you want. Say it clearly: *I am a welder with 5 years of work. I am looking for work in this area.* Ask them to tell you if they hear of anything. A good word from a person who knows you is strong.

3. Local contractors, shops and factories

Visit or call small and big businesses in your area: building companies, workshops, factories, restaurants, hotels, shops, farms. Look at the gates, noticeboards and shop windows. Ask politely if they need workers. Carry your resume or write your name and phone number clearly on paper.

4. Training centres and government help

Many places have skill training centres, employment offices or job centres. Some give free training, trade tests or job lists. Ask what is in your area. Use official offices or websites. Do not pay a stranger who promises a government job.

5. Agencies

Some agencies find workers for companies. A real agency is registered, has an office, and does not take a fee from you for finding a job in many countries, because the company pays them. Rules are different in different countries. Ask your local labour office. If an agency asks for money before you have a job, be very careful. Lesson 7 explains this more.

6. Groups on WhatsApp, Facebook or Telegram

Some local groups share real jobs. Some share scams. Join groups with a known admin, with real local members. Do not share your ID or your bank details in a group. Contact the employer directly and check them before you share more.

7. Sites for employers: companies that hire you directly

Look at the websites or social pages of companies that you like. Many have a Careers or Jobs page. Local newspapers and radio also list jobs in some places.

Keep a simple list

Use the notes app, or a small notebook. For each place that you contact, write one line.

Date | Company | What work | Who I spoke to | Phone | What next
12 Mar | Shah Builders | electrician | Mr Shah | 98XXXXXXXX | call again Friday
13 Mar | Green Hotel | maintenance | Reception | 02XXXXXXX | visit Monday 10 am

This list stops you from forgetting names, and it helps you call back at the right time. It also shows you how much effort you have made.

Your task

  1. Search this site's jobs page, or another job site, for your trade and your town. Save two jobs that look real.
  2. Tell five people what work you want, in one clear sentence.
  3. Make a list of five places in your area to visit or call.
  4. Start your simple job list in the notes app.

How to check it worked

  • You have at least two real openings, with a company name, place and way to apply.
  • Five people know exactly what work you want.
  • Your job list has your first three lines.

Frequently asked questions

Is it better to look online or offline?

Use both. Many trade and daily jobs come through people and visits, and many companies post jobs online. More ways means more chances.

Should I pay an agency to find me a job?

Be very careful. In many places, real agencies are paid by the employer. Ask your local labour office what is allowed in your country, and never pay a stranger who promises a sure job.