1. Starting Out
Step 1: Know yourself.
____ I have identified my personal strengths, skills, interests, and values.
____ I have made a list of possible job titles/fields of interest.
____ I can name two or three careers/jobs I plan to pursue.
Step 2: Know where you want to work.
____ I have researched organizations or companies that might hire someone with my skills, interests, and background.
____ I have researched potential career fields: typical entry-level jobs, typical salaries, best geographic location for jobs, etc.
____ I have identified the top three geographic areas where I’d like to live and work.
____ I have identified 10 potential employers for the type of work I’m seeking.
Step 3: Getting ready for the job search.
____ I have had my resume and cover letter(s) reviewed by a professional in the field or a staff member in the Career Center.
____ I have prepared a portfolio or work samples to highlight my experiences, skills, and talent.
____ I have developed my “30-second speech for short encounters with employers.
____ I have analyzed my education and developed my “liberal arts story for employers.
____ I have identified three individuals who will serve as references.
____ I have developed my interview skills.
____ I have prepared for interviews by practicing my responses to typical questions and/or doing a mock interview.
____ I have an interview suit that is appropriate for the field in which I plan to work.
____ I have a professional-sounding answering machine/voice mail message in case an employer calls.
____ I have a neutral/professional e-mail address to give to employers.
Step 4: Start searching for jobs
____ I regularly check online news resources etc. for career opportunities in my field.
____ I read and check the appropriate job-search web sites and resources for my field(s) of interest.
____ I have a system for keeping track of my applications, contacts, interviews, and other job-search activities.
____ I follow-up on every interesting job lead immediately.
____ I have developed a list of potential networking contacts and keep in touch with them.
____ I follow-up each application with a phone call or e-mail to the employer requesting.
2. Job Search Sheet (Goals)
The format:
Job Search Activity Week 1 – Week2 – Week3 – Week4 – Week5 – Week6 – Week7 - Week8
Applied for job (name of org./s)
Prepared for an interview (mock)
Researched a company
Conducted an informational interview
Attended a networking event
Interviewed for a job
Tailored resume for a job
Sought help/advice from others
Helped others: Sent job leads to others/Stood referral for others
Communicated with a past company/colleague
Gave my business card and elevator speech to at least 10 new contacts
Worked on my industry blog
3. Job Search Sheet (Skills)
The format: Job position- Company- Skills required
Thank you for reading.
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