Eight-Step Job Search - The Foundation of Your Job Search


Searching for a job is like taking on a new project. There are logical steps you can take that will help you obtain optimal results.

If you break down a job search into its most basic components, there are two fundamental things that must be accomplished: 1) get interviews, and 2) do well in those interviews. Granted, there are lots of things that go into making those two things happen. However; if you keep your focus on those fundamental components, the rest will make a lot more sense.

So, where do you start? That's where our eight-step job search process and flexible learning paths come in.

First, it's important to recognize there is no "cookie cutter" approach that will work for all job hunters. People have varied backgrounds, work in varied job markets, have varied job search experience, etc. To accommodate those differences, we have developed flexible learning paths (see Job Search Roadmap under the Home menu) that will help you select and pursue a job search approach that will work best for your particular situation.

Step-by-Step

To be successful in your job search, you must effectively manage the important elements of your job search project. As you review the elements below, consider them in the context of your profession, industry segment, experience and the like. Also, since no single approach will work best for everyone, be flexible and adjust as needed to meet your particular needs. The important thing is that you carefully consider each of the elements and work through the overall process.

Job Hunter Pro - Job Search Highlights

Listed below are descriptions of the key elements or steps outlined in the above graphic. While they are generally listed in a logical sequence, you will find that many of them can be managed at the same time or in a different order. For example, preparing your personal inventory will help you as you network, however, that shouldn’t stop you from networking prior to completion of the personal inventory process; especially if a really great networking opportunity presents itself. You will also likely find yourself revisiting some of the steps as you learn more about your job market and subsequently adjust your job search strategy.

Step 1: Take Inventory

Taking inventory refers to gaining a good understanding of what you have to offer potential employers. Going through the inventory preparation process will help you later on when you prepare resumes and cover letters, and as you network and go through job interviews. We’ve created a Skills Inventory Form to help you complete this step.

Your personal inventory should include items like personal skills that relate to the jobs you are applying for, positive work traits or habits, competencies, job related experience, accomplishments you’re especially proud of, educational achievements, and any past recognition you have received on the job. As you create your inventory, think about the kinds of things a potential employer would be most interested in when seeking qualified job applicants.

Step 2: Research and Plan

The research and planning element entails getting to know your job market and environment. As you define your job market, you begin to get a clearer picture of how your previous efforts in developing a skills inventory fit into the overall picture. Don’t be surprised if you return to the “take inventory” element at this point and make some adjustments.

In this process, you’ll evaluate the status of your job market, set a search objective for yourself, develop a strategy for your job search, define employer needs and identify industry trends. Use the Professional Environment Inventory form found under the Job Search Tools/Forms menu to help you through this process.

Step 3: Prepare Resumes

You may have noticed that we said “resumes.” We use the plural because no single resume will work best for all jobs you apply for. Even if you are applying for positions with the exact job title, each employer will be looking for their own particular preferences regarding skills, experience, job knowledge, jargon, etc.

Resume preparation is a critical part of the job search process. Among other things, it entails choosing a format, e.g., chronological vs. functional, showing your accomplishments, making it concise and easy to read, passing a “ten-second review,” and having a job-specific focus. See the eBook chapter on Resumes to get started. You will also find sample resumes and templates to help you out.

Step 4: Write Cover Letters

As is the case with resumes, you will write more than one version of a cover letter. Your cover letters need to be focused on the particular needs of the job and employer. In most cases, a quick review of the job description or advertisement will tell you what areas to emphasize in your cover letters.

As you prepare cover letters, it can be helpful to review them with a friend or associate to be sure they are clear and concise. Keep them short, focus on specific needs of the job, give them a “five-second review,” and make them specific to the job title you are applying for. See the eBook chapter on Cover Letters. There are also some samples and templates to get you started.

Step 5: Begin Networking and Execute Your Search

There seems to be universal agreement that networking among friends and professional associates is a critical part of a successful job search. Indeed, many jobs are filled through networking that are never posted on the Internet or in newspapers. Networking opens this hidden job market, gives you an inside track on the latest job openings, and expands your job search potential.

As you begin networking, explore all possible sources of contacts, be sure you provide them with your resume, offer a personal business card, ask for referrals, and be sure you respect their time. Networking should be done along with other on-going activities, including using traditional job search sources, the Internet, etc. The Job Search eBook covers the job search process, including sources of network contacts, the use of social networking sites and provides additional advice.

Step 6: Prep for Interviews

All of the previous steps are ultimately designed to get you to the job interview stage. A successful interview depends largely upon how well you prepare in advance. Interview preparation and interviewing skills are a key focus of Job Hunter Pro. After all, this is the step that determines whether you are selected for a job over other candidates.

Interview preparation entails knowing what to expect, planning for contingencies, assuring you’re prepared to make a good first impression, learning and understanding what we call the “Four P’s” (Perception, Prediction, Preparation, Practice), using the Interview Trainer, and practice, practice, practice. See the eBook chapter on Interview Preparation to get started. It includes some additional tools as well.

Step 7: Interview for the Job

Good interview preparation leads to successful job interviews. That doesn’t mean you’ll always be selected over other candidates. Sometimes, your competition will simply have more experience, better skills or the right “chemistry” to get selected.

Good interviewing starts with preparation and practice, but also requires awareness and planning. You must plan ahead to understand employer needs and likely interview questions. It's important to plan ahead, present a positive first impression, demonstrate your interest in the job, avoid displays of nervousness and show a professional demeanor. The eBook chapter on Interviewing will get you started. You’ll also find useful tools, such as Frequently Asked Interview Questions, Common Interview Problems, Video Interview Tips and more. The Interview Trainer includes a Mock (sample) Interview that will walk you through a job interview from start-to-finish.

Step 8: Negotiate

Eventually, a successful job interview will lead to a job offer. When a job offer is extended to you, you may have an opportunity to negotiate some of the terms and conditions of your employment. It is important to note, however, that negotiation isn’t always an option. In some cases, and for some jobs, negotiation isn’t appropriate.

Part of negotiation strategy is knowing when negotiations are acceptable, and what is negotiable. Knowledge of your profession and industry will help you understand what is acceptable in this area. You should consider these factors prior to any negotiation, then set a negotiation strategy, be observant during negotiations, and be sure that the negotiation process ends in a “win/win” situation for you and the employer. See the Job Search eBook chapter on Negotiating for more information on setting a negotiation strategy.

 

 

Eight-Step Job Search

Key Points