Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook important items when searching for work.  For this reason, we have created a convenient job search checklist for you below.  Making a job search check list is like making a list when you go grocery shopping.  By making a list, you are a more efficient job seeker and you wont forget anything.  Well, the same reasoning applies to “job shopping”.  So if you are currently looking for work, take a look at the list below to see if you have missed anything important.

Remember that Intelligent job search is beyond firing out a few resumes on the online job board.  It is a well-thought out and executed plan.

The Job Search Check List

CLARIFY YOUR JOB TARGET

• Decide what type(s) of position(s) you want.
• Make a “To Do List” in order to outline your job search methods.
• Keep a list of all the companies you have contacted or plan on contacting (get contact information)
• Do some company research prior to applying (e.g. location, market, service, company culture etc.). Use the internet as a tool to check company websites.
• Select your preferred geographic location and starting salary.

WRITE YOUR RESUMÉ AND COVER LETTER

• Attend a workshop, use book and/or internet searches to help with resumes and cover letter writing
• Use the handouts on writing resume and cover letters to assist yo
• Hire  a professional resume writer
• Have a friend, family member or other professional(s) look over and critique your resume and cover letter before sending it out
• Make sure the information on the resume and cover letter is correct and current

PREPARE FOR YOUR JOB SEARCH

• Networking is very important. Let people know that you are looking for a job, especially if you know someone that works in the field in which you are interested
• Join a professional association related to your field of interest. This is a good way to network.
• Use different methods of looking for the right job (e.g. Newspapers, internet job sites, notice boards and recruitment agencies)
• Send Unsolicited cover letter and resumes to targeted employers of interest.
• Use different methods of sending your resume and cover letter to companies of interest (e.g. In-person, fax, mail or e-mail)
• Keep extra copies (hard copies) of your resume at all time
• Purchase professional business attire for your interview.
• Make sure all your references are in current and aware

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CONTACT POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS

• Begin contacting potential employers with phone calls, visits, letters, and e-mail
• Start keeping records on employer contacts.

PREPARE FOR THE INTERVIEW

• Attend a workshop, read a book and/or use internet sites to help you prepare for an interview
• Gather as much information on the company as you can
• Set up a mock interview with friends, family members or hiring professionals. Use an audio and/or video recorder as coaching tools. Both are helpful ways to improve your interviewing skills.
• Hire a job interview coach
• Dress To Impress
• Pack case/portfolio for interview (extra resumes, references, work sample, pad/paper, company research and questions for the interviewee(s))

FOLLOW UP

• Send thank you letters to organizations that interviewed you.
• Contact organizations again that interviewed you, if you have not heard from them after 5-10 business days

Need help with your resume? Get your resume written by HR professionals!

Would you prefer to do it yourself? Take our interactive online course for skills to last a career!