One of my industry colleagues likes to explain this process ... because in essence it is really quite simple.
There are only 3 ways to get a job ...
1. You go out and find one yourself.
2. You get one through the government programs ... good luck if you are looking for something at a professional level (Note: I am not talking about applying to the Government. I am talking about government programs that help people find jobs).
OR
3. You get one through the STAFFING INDUSTRY.
Let's talk about applying yourself ...
You don't necessarily know who is hiring, many companies don't advertise their jobs.
You likely won't have any inside knowledge of the environment, so you apply cold.
You will likely be one of many applicants.
If you are successful there is a good chance that you could have found something better, but you won't ever know it.
It IS a good way to get a job, if you can find one.
How about getting a job through a government program ... I don't have much to say about this because I don't see it working too much.
OK then what about Staffing Companies ...
They have the inside track on available jobs
There is a full range of services from Executive search, through to temporary engagements.
Their core business is finding work for people and people for the work.
There really is NO EASY way to find a job, but Staffing companies provide an important service to the economy, increase your chances of becoming employed and I am proud of this industry!