Be Prepared for your Job Search: Create a Checklist!
Searching for a new job, whether you are employed or unemployed, is a job on its own. Taking the time to plan, to prepare and to execute can be a long and arduous process. However, you can create a neat job search checklist for yourself to ensure that all areas of your search are being met and delivered.
Here are the top 8 items to review and update for a successful job search checklist:
- Update/Revise Resume: Always take some time to update your resume, whether you are looking or not you never know when an opportunity will strike. Take some time to read it over, rewrite it and continuously try to reinvent yourself. Finally, review your contact information. Have a professional email address, and the best number that you can be reached on.
- Update/Revise LinkedIn Profile: Staffing Specialists and potential employers will visit your LinkedIn profile. Ensure that all the information is up to date and polished to maximize your success.
- Have clear requirements for your search: When you are searching for the right opportunity create a list with clear requirements regarding what you are looking for. It is crucial to have a specific goal or target in order to ensure you are going towards the right opportunity. To help yourself out in this section ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the role that I am looking for?
- What are my expectations for my next role?
- What duties/responsibilities am I willing / not willing to accept for my next role?
- What are my goals for the next 5 years?
- What is my minimum salary expectation?
- What are my benefits and vacation expectations?
- Tailor your resume: Each resume that is sent should be tailored according to the role, company, and industry. To save some time create a template where you are able to edit the content quickly and effectively.
- Proofread: Take the time to read through your resume, not forgetting to have another set of eyes look at it as well. Another individual can offer their perspective on how your resume looks and how to tailor it based on the role.
- Keep track of where your resume is: Create an excel spreadsheet to track where you have sent your resume. Track the employer’s name, the position you applied for and the date the resume was sent. This way, you are able to recall which position you have applied for and you will be prepared for a callback.
- Schedule follow-up calls: Alongside tracking where you have applied, take the time to schedule follow-up calls in your calendar. Follow-up with Staffing specialists or employers one week after you’ve sent your resume to gage your level of candidacy.
- Connect with a Staffing Specialist: Connecting with a Staffing Specialist can help you in all areas of this list. They will have access to opportunities not disclosed on the job market. They will assist you with revising and tailoring your resume with respect to the opportunity. A Staffing Specialist will ask you all the right questions and will offer you expert advice regarding your search. Finally, they will be able to track and follow up the status of your resume and provide you honest feedback.
This list covers all main areas of your search. Take some time to personalize your job search checklist, ensure all of your must-haves are on it. Read it over and check it twice! This will all help in keeping you prepared and organized and will maximize your success for a new opportunity.
Manraj is a Recruitment Consultant at Fusion Career Services, connect with Manraj at contact@fusioncareer.com or leave a comment below.
