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• 1. Self Assessment
• 2. Research
• 3. Decision-Making
• 4. Networks & Contacts
  • 4.1 Work Search
    • 4.1.1 Traditional Methods of Finding Openings
    • 4.1.2 Internet Sites Listing Job Advertisements
    • 4.1.3 Creative Methods for Finding Work
    • 4.1.4 Researching Employers
    • 4.1.5 Networking, Developing Leads and Making Contacts
    • 4.1.6 Networking Contacts
    • 4.1.7 Networking Diagrams
    • 4.1.8 Create a Job Seeker's Calling Card
  • 4.2 Resumes
    • 4.2.1 Preparing to Write Your Resume
    • 4.2.2 Major Sections of a Resume
    • 4.2.3 Types of Resumes
    • 4.2.4 Functional Resume
    • 4.2.5 Additional Resume Tips
    • 4.2.6 Action Verbs that Describe Skills
    • 4.2.7 Preparing an Electronic Version of Your Resume
    • 4.2.8 Resume Templates
    • 4.2.9 Resources on Resume Writing
  • 4.3 Letters
    • 4.3.1 Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.2 Comparison of Cover and Broadcast Letters
    • 4.3.3 A Process to Develop Letters
    • 4.3.4 Creating Thank You Letters
    • 4.3.5 Sample Letter Format
    • 4.3.6 Resources on Letter Writing
  • 4.4 Interviews
    • 4.4.1 The Core of the Interview Process
    • 4.4.2 Selling Your Benefits
    • 4.4.3 Understanding Verbal & Non-Verbal Communication
    • 4.4.4 Approaches to Interviewing
    • 4.4.5 The Employer's Evaluation
    • 4.4.6 Tips for Effective Interviewing
    • 4.4.7 Your Rights in the Interview
    • 4.4.8 Resources on Interviewing
• 5. Work
• 6. Life/Work Planning

Step 4.1: Getting Ready

Many job seekers have an unrealistic picture of how much time the job search takes. It is never too early to begin making contacts. Start in the Fall term for a summer job. For co-op, internship, contract or on-going (permanent) positions, monitor the job market year-round so that your research is up-to-date. If you are still in school, or working full-time but want to change jobs, plan to spend up to 8 hours each week. After graduation, or if you are currently unemployed, your search should become full-time. If you have been searching for several weeks or months, an employer will want to know how you have been spending your time. Have activities with a practical application to the job market to talk about. For technical people whose knowledge may become outdated quickly, be able to show how you are staying current in your field.

To begin, review your worksheets from Steps 1, 2 and 3 of the Manual so that you can direct your efforts. Know what is important to you, what you enjoy or do not enjoy doing, what skills you have to offer, and what type of work is a good fit for you. In short, only you know what kind of work you want and what you are best qualified for. Be able to discuss your accomplishments. Employers want to know why you selected them and what you are prepared to do for them. Also, think about your life beyond this work you are presently looking for. Where are you heading in the future? Now is the time to form the foundation for those 20+ jobs and 7+ occupational fields you may have ahead of you. What skills will you need to develop or update? What skills do you want to develop? With a clear focus, you will be able to prepare excellent resumes and letters, and present your strengths in interviews.

Develop a plan to find work Your work search will be more effective if you map out your strategy in advance Set daily and weekly objectives so that you have a concrete way to evaluate your progress Determine the amount of time you will allocate to: Identify target organizations Research Make contact Follow up Schedule at least one activity away from home each day to get yourself out into the community and energized Organize your days of searching for work just as you would a regular work day Record all of your appointments, activities and results

Organizing Support

You will need support while undertaking your search. First, you will need financial support. If you do not have sufficient financial resources, you may want to consider part-time work. Try to look for something with a flexible schedule. This will allow you to attend interviews at times suggested by employers. Some jobs (e.g., sales) give you an added opportunity to speak with many people from diverse employment backgrounds. Jobs through a temporary employment agency may be an alternative. You may need to take an interim job until the position you would like becomes available. This type of job also enables you to broaden your qualifications and develop contacts in the areas of your interests.

Second, moral support is very important. "No" will likely reach your ears more often than "Yes". Surround yourself with people who are most likely to boost your confidence. Volunteer - an organization will appreciate your help. The people there will become aware of your enthusiasm and the quality of your work. Benefits will come as you work and interact with people, since they may be able to give you some information and advice about your job search activities. Keep in touch with previous professional colleagues, friends in your field of work, and new contacts that you are making each week. These people can also be a source of great moral support.

Finally, celebrate your achievements. Examples of successes could be: finalizing the arrangements to meet a contact; completing ten telephone call-backs by lunch-time; getting company information that was difficult to locate; speaking with a hiring manager briefly in person. Reward yourself with a pleasurable activity. Take some time out each week to participate in social or recreational activities, or hobbies. You need the break to renew your level of energy.

To continue with Step 4.1.1, click here.