Are you a server, waiter, bartender, bar back, bus boy, or maybe a chef…?

Finding a restaurant job through online searching is far more efficient than the old-fashioned method of burrowing through the classified sections of newspapers and other dead-tree sources. Job postings in any location, field or pay range are easy to find, and the restaurant industry is no exception. There are, however, some particular factors to take into consideration when job hunting in the restaurant/bar industry.

The usual first step is to search one of the many career search sites online. There are many well-established sites of this nature and they’re not hard to find. Through these sites, it is possible to find jobs by industry, type and location. Well-travelled sites such as Craigslist and more informal job posting sites are helpful too.

One advantage of looking for jobs on career search websites is that once you?ve found a job prospect that appeals to you, you can submit your application on the spot. Like so many other workaday tasks in life, the Net makes job searching far quicker and more efficient than the old-fashioned techniques.

Also, devoted job hunters will want to look for websites for the specific kind of job they’re looking for. Today, more restaurants and bars than ever have their own website, some better developed than others. If you search restaurant sites in your particular area, and perhaps for your particular style (such as a pub or lounge) you’ll be able to get a sense of what the establishment is like, its prices, atmosphere and so on. Such sites, if they’re for smaller independent restaurants, are less likely than corporate sites to have a a page for career opportunities however; they are usually geared more toward potential customers.

Searching restaurant websites is a good guide for getting a sense of the places you are interested in applying to, but in the industry it is popular and often more effective to visit the restaurant itself and bring your resume in person.

Nothing makes a stronger impression than “face time” for your first contact with a potential employer. The restaurant industry is an excellent one for providing such opportunities. Unlike a corporate office building, it is easily accessible to the general public–including you! Walk in and you’re likely to find the manager or another high-ranking staff member to talk to directly.

Applying for jobs in restaurants and other small businesses can be a good deal more informal than applying for company jobs. Managers or owners in restaurants and bars often prefer to meet applicants face-to-face, rather than try to select candidates from a stack of resumes. This is especially valuable for front-of-house jobs like waiters and bartenders, where the potential employee would need to interact with customers. If you take the time and effort to come to the restaurant in person you are showing them you are outgoing, pro-active, and truly want the job.

If you do choose to simply apply, either through a job search website posting or through the restaurant’s website itself, be careful to take the time and effort to prepare and submit your application with care. The online form for job applications will often have a standard form for you to fill out, as well as a special box for your actual resume. You can cut and paste your resume, but make sure to take care to retain the proper format if possible. And make sure you provide all the information the form asks for.

A word of caution about applying for jobs online: as with all realms of the internet, there are frauds and scams in the field of job finding. Sensitive information, such as your e-mail address or, more importantly, your Social Insurance Number, should not be given out online unless you are confident you are dealing with an above-board website or employer. If you are unsure that the business offering a job online is a legitimate one, you can use the Web to further research its authenticity.  Happy job hunting.

Q: Should I hire a lawyer to review my physician employment contract?

A: In general, yes. We are not lawyers and do not give legal advice. We have reviewed many contracts and can provide you with feedback as to what we have seen as standard. The choice of a lawyer is critical. Find someone well versed in medical contract law, as well as the state’s laws in which you will practice. Try to find an attorney recommended by someone else. Also, make sure the attorney has enough time to review the contract in a timely manner. Negotiations could be hampered by a slowed response time.

Q: If I am a resident, when should I decide upon accepting a position?

A: As a general rule, the earlier the better. The more time you have to work on license applications, hospital privileges, finding a new home and moving arrangements, the less stress you’ll encounter. Many hospitals recruit for summer positions in the fall and early winter. Don’t think all of the “good” physician jobs are taken by the end of winter. We assist physicians throughout the year because contract expirations occur throughout the year. Don’t worry. Have confidence that the right position will be available. Call us, we are here to help!

Q: Who handles negotiations, me or my recruiter?

A: Whenever possible, your recruiter should handle negotiations for physician practice opportunities. Having a liaison reduces the potential for heated arguments between two parties. Keep in mind, professional recruiters regularly perform this task.