Craigslist, founded in 1995 by Craig Newmark, is an online classified advertisement service that allows job seekers and employers to make contact with each other. Because the service reaches an extremely large audience, job candidates have a world of opportunities at their fingertips. Consequently, employers can access a rich pool of qualified and professional applicants. This how to get a job on Craigslist page will provide tips that will give you a head start on the competition.

1. • Be careful of scams on Craigslist. If you see job listings with bad grammar, strangely low requirements for the job type or drastically inflated salaries, it may be wise to avoid them.
2. • Don't offer up too much information by telling the employer what you can't do. For example, if they mention software or a technique you don't recognize, don't just apply and tell them you have no idea. Instead, research the unknown item and ascertain if you'll be able to learn it or not before applying.
3. • Follow directions. Often people make the mistake of not providing files in the correct format or not sending the correct amount of samples which sends the message that the applicant is lazy and not detail-oriented.
4. • No one wants to read a boring cover letter. Make sure to wow them with your amazing personality.

It should take 30 minutes to one hour to complete a job application. This time doesn't include the research time needed to search for the position. Since the competition for jobs on Craigslist is steep, you will have to rise above the crowd by working the hardest, providing the best cover letter and going the extra mile.

When searching for a job, it's best to set aside a chunk of time (anywhere from 4 to 8 hours) dedicated to that purpose alone. Keep in mind that a perspective employer may get as many as 100 applications or more. So, it is best to get noticed sooner than later. It wouldn't be overkill to check every 5 minutes for new job postings when possible.

One of the most important steps in the job search process is creating a stellar introductory email also known as a cover letter. This is your one and only chance to stand out and grab the employer's attention. There's little wiggle room for mistakes, so try some of the following steps to get your foot in the door.

1. Do not make the cover letter an attachment. Include it in the body of the email.
2. Show your interest and enthusiasm for their company.
3. Keep the letter professional yet conversational. It should not come off impersonal.
4. Include hints that you know a little about them from your own research efforts.
5. Let them know why the job interests you.
6. Explain how your qualifications will benefit them.
7. Be quick and too the point.
8. Don't complain about previous employers.
9. Discuss how your unique life/job experiences will give added value to your performance in the position.
10. Give a couple of specific examples of how you can fulfill their job requirements.
11. Avoid the perfection trap. Try to be honest, open and sincere. Highlight how you turned a bad situation into a good one.
12. Make sure your resume is in the format they requested then attach it to the email.

It's essential that you take the extra time and effort to research the company as much as you can. If they have an official web site, make sure to visit it. You'll be surprised what interesting clues you can find there that gives you an idea of what the company needs. Do your best to anticipate what would impress them, and show them you can join in seamlessly with their environment. Some times you will be asked to provide samples of your work. If you present your work in a similar style and format as theirs, they will know that you took the initiative to learn about them and that you can deliver what they want.