There are many moving parts to a job search: research, networking, writing, applying, following up. The list goes on and on. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here are five easy, yet important tasks that are easily forgotten:
Consider job search your job. Set a daily schedule. Wake up at the same time you would when you were working. Shower, get dressed and eat breakfast. Block off times for online job searching and informational interviews. End your day by making a to-do list for the next day.
Google yourself. Look at the first three or four pages to see what an employer will see. A search that brings up negative or inappropriate content could land you in an employer’s reject pile. Having no information is almost as bad; recruiters may see this being out of touch or lacking skills. Combat this by creating or updating your LinkedIn profile.
Choose strong words for your resume. Use words that show employers real activities with measurable results. Words like “was” or “became” do not say much about what you actually did. Instead, choose verbs that lead to questions such as “how,” “how many,” “how much,” “when,” “where,” “who” and “why.” Good words should make the reader want to know more.
Keep references current. Don’t forget the 4 P’s: prepare, professional, permission and progress. Double-check the contact information for your references before your interview; you wouldn’t want the hiring manager to call a disconnected phone number. Outdated contact information also shows the employer you haven’t kept in touch with that person.
Send a thank you note. One out of three employers think less of a candidate who doesn’t send a thank you note. One in ten wouldn’t hire someone if they don’t send a thank you note, according to Career Builder. Keep it short and professional. Hand-written is best, but emailing works too.
Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.
