This job-search checklist follows the six essential steps of job-hunting. To have a successful job search, all job-seekers must be sure to have every element on this list checked. To truly master the job search, you’ll want to master each element on the list.
Job-Search Checklist
Part 1: Job Search Planning & Preparation
I have:
 | a clear understanding of the job search process and have developed a job-search strategy. |
| a clear understanding of the jobs that interest me — and that I am qualified for. |
| outlined a clear career path/track for myself. |
| identified my strengths and weaknesses. |
| developed my unique selling proposition, which will help me distinguish myself from other job-seekers. |
| identified my key accomplishments from all school and work experiences. |
| identified my core transferable skills. |
| identified the main industries/companies that interest me. |
| researched the companies that most interest me. |
| a clear understanding of the importance of marketing skills when job-hunting. |
| gathered a key list (including contact information) of references. |
Part 2: Resumes
I have:
| reviewed the Resume Tutorial. |
| a clear understanding of the different types of resumes formats. |
| developed a list (3-4) of key accomplishments for each work experience. |
| used bullets and short phrases to describe my accomplishments. |
| avoided the usage of “responsibilities included” or “duties included,” “responsible for.” |
| provided as much contact information as possible on my resume. |
| composed a “summary of qualifications” or “key accomplishments” section. |
| reviewed samples of strong resumes. |
| avoided using personal pronouns (“I,” “my,” “me”) in my resume. |
| considered using transferable skills (especially if I am a career changer or recent college grad without much experience). |
| not listed any personal information (age, marital status, etc.) on my resume. |
| not lied or provided any false information on my resume. |
| not listed any references directly on my resume. |
| proofread my resume carefully and eliminated any errors, typos, and misspellings. |
Part 3: Cover Letters
I have:
| reviewed the |
| read about the basic strategy and importance of using a cover letter. |
| reviewed the basic structure of a dynamic cover letter. |
| examined examples of strong, dynamic cover letters. |
| used action verbs to describe my accomplishments. |
| focused my cover letter with specific information. |
| addressed each cover letter to a named individual. |
| tailored each cover letter to the specific needs of each employer. |
| clearly stated how I can meet the employer’s needs. |
| demonstrated my knowledge of the company. |
| kept my cover letter to one page. |
| not rehashed my resume, but highlighted specific critical points. |
| not stated anything negative. |
| avoided the three most common cover letter mistakes. |
| edited and proofread each letter carefully. |
| requested action (an interview) from the employer. |
| reviewed the |
Part 4: Networking
I have:
| reviewed the key elements of networking and why networking plays such an important role in job-hunting. |
| researched the role of networking and the hidden job market. |
| used (or considered using) informational interviews to gain insights, broaden my network of contacts. |
| implemented strategies for how to expand my network of contacts. |
| developed a social networking strategy for raising my visibility. |
| started using LinkedIn and other social networks to promote my professional brand. |
| minded my do’s and don’ts of networking. |
| assessed my networking skills and made adjustments, as necessary. |
Part 5: Interviewing Skills
I have:
| reviewed the Job Interviewing Tutorial. |
| read about and reviewed different types of job interviews. |
| prepared answers for the most common interview questions. |
| practiced answering different types of job interview questions. |
| taken advantage of mock interviews. |
| prepared several questions to ask the employer during the interview. |
| a clear understanding of the position I am interviewing for. |
| prepared for the possibility of an initial screening interview by phone. |
| read and reviewed the importance of dressing for success. |
| taken a practice run so I know how long it will take to reach the interview. |
| prepared myself to give a firm (and dry) handshake, to make eye contact with the interviewer(s), and to show enthusiasm for he job and company. |
| researched each company so that I can showcase that knowledge in the interview. |
| a clear understanding of the salary negotiation process. |
| researched salaries and have clear expectations about salaries. |
| prepared a “closing” for the interview that expresses my desire for the job and inquires about the next step in the interview process. |
Part 6: Follow-Up
I have:
| chased down every potential job lead. |
| kept my network of contacts informed of my job search progress. |
| followed-up each cover letter with a phone call or email to the employer requesting a job interview. |
| written thank you letters to every person I interviewed with at each company. |
| phoned the employer about a week after the first interview to check on the progress of the job search. |
| written acceptance or declining letters to all job offers
Author: Dr. Randall S. Hansen | | | | | | |
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