Job Search Best Practices

Best methods for job search:

(Depends on industry and size of company)

Communicate

• Referrals. Talk to family, friends, and colleagues about what you love to do and what makes you good at it. Most hires are through referrals.

Take Action

• Informal Interview. Talk to receptionist, manager, or human resources. Leave your resume. Go early. Call. Go back.
• Career Fair, Job Club, or Workshop. Practice communication and job search skills, network, and find job leads.

Research

• Internet and social networking. Use the internet to identify subjects and fields of interest. Find the pulse of the culture and economy.
• Vision. Look up company vision and culture. Companies are looking for a match.

Planning and Self-examination

• Life-changing job search method. With each career transition ask yourself, “How would I like to use my Transferrable Skills to do something I value?” 
• Know your skills and what skills make up each skill.

basic tools for career mastery

(Depends on industry and size of company)

• Master resume: complete list of education, skills and experience.
• Focused resume: short, job specific, and focused on employer needs.
• Format: use Word.doc format with content in the body of the email.
• Know your resume: be able to speak on the content and let yourself shine.
• Master Application: be prepared to fill out applications.
• Letters and eLetters: Introduce yourself and follow up.

core competencies

(Show your unique value)

• Bilingual
• Diverse background
• Multicultural experience
• Specific skills for industry
•  

New frontiers

(Learn to say it in 140 characters or less)

    

• eLetters
• Virtual interviews
• Google the new resume
• Linkedin #1 site for professional job search
• Email and one phone number on resume
• Vocational/skills jobs in demand
• Contract, temp, and interim jobs soaring 

           

Adapted from Richard Bolles & Career Thought Leaders Consortium 3/14/2011 http://www.careerthoughtleaders.com

LifeWork News is for your information only. Not intended as career advice. For more information, contact Nancy.