Here in Roanoke, the good news is that the market is still thriving and there are many different opportunities available for people who need work. If you’ve been out of the search for a while, it can be tricky to know how to present yourself the best and get the kind of job you want and need. Here are some important facts to help you navigate the Roanoke job market.
Top Industries in Roanoke
Roanoke has a wide variety of industries that make this an ideal place for many people looking for work. For those in healthcare, there are hospitals and clinics that are always in need of licensed professionals. In addition, it’s home to Carilion Clinic and Healthcare corporation which includes the local hospital. Many of these companies require a clean Virginia background check. Others are more flexible and can accept employees who have some criminal records in their background.
Those in manufacturing can also find jobs. There is a rubber and seal company, construction companies, and even outdoor furniture manufacturing like at Twist & Turn. These industries help to keep this region thriving. Outside of the city, there are large and small farms and a homesteading community that also adds to the agricultural industry as well.
Job Hunting Tips in Roanoke
Finding a job in Roanoke is possible. Aside from just applying as jobs come up, there are other ways to get connected and get hired for a new position. Create a great resume, and make sure that you use unique cover letters in the application process. Here are some options that Roanoke residents find helpful:
Attend Networking Meetings
Going to business networking meetings is a great way to find out about roles that are coming open before they become available to the general public. Since people like to work with those they know, like, and trust, going to networking meetings can give you a leg up in your industry. The Roanoke Chamber of Commerce may have resources to help you get connected. You can also find networking meetings through apps like Facebook and Meetup.
Explore In Person Job Fairs
If you're looking for a job, it's helpful to attend in-person job fairs. These events are great opportunities to meet potential employers and network with other job seekers. They can also be used as a way to learn about new career paths or gain more knowledge about companies that are hiring. Plus, you can often apply for and interview for positions all on the same day. Some people hear back from multiple companies within a matter of days after a job fair. This makes a job fair a great use of your time.
Sign Up for Job Lists
As a job seeker, you can sign up to receive automated emails from local companies with job openings. This is a great way to stay on top of the latest opportunities in your field and make sure that you don't miss out on any opportunities because you didn’t look quickly enough. You can also sign up for alerts from your favorite companies, that will send you new postings as they become available.
When signing up for these email alerts, it's important to remember that they may be going into your spam folder or junk mail folder if they aren't being delivered properly. It's always worth checking these folders if something doesn't show up in the inbox.
Volunteer in the Community
Volunteering can connect you with other business professionals in Roanoke. Many people spend time volunteering at the animal shelter, the food bank, and other non-profit organizations. Volunteering your time after work hours can help you expand your skill set and make new contacts, all while doing something good for the community.
Conclusion
There are many jobs in Roanoke in manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture. Of course, there are also retail jobs and restaurants as well. Finding work in Roanoke is made easier if you know what you’re looking for. Work on sprucing up your resume, connecting with people, and getting on the right email lists. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there in networking meetings, at job fairs, and other in-person events.