Successful Job-Search Skills

The aim of your job search is to secure an interview and job offer.  A successful job search requires the strategy. 

The following guidelines are recommended for a successful job search:

1) Self-Discovery is the first step in identifying the type of job for you.  It is the process of identifying your interests, values, personality, likes, dislikes, experiences, and skills.  Your career goals are built based on these traits and skills.

The following self-assessment tools are available: 

a) SIGI³ (available on the Placement & Career Services Website)

b) Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and other personality assessment tools (available online)

c) Accomplishments Worksheets (self-designed)

2) Industry Search.  Identify specific career jobs that reflect your values, interests and require your key competencies.  Target career jobs that support your life plan.  Identify target employers you would like to work.  Sources of job opportunities include:

a) Internet search - social networking sites (social media), job banks, etc.

b) Target company websites

c) Industry journals and associations

d) Current employees within your target industry/company

e) Job listings in newspapers

f) Government career centers

3) Conduct a Realistic Job Preview.  This process will allow you to identify the daily tasks for a specific job.  The job preview will help you to identify additional educational and experience requirements.  Additionally, other requirement such as credit history, police record, etc. can be ascertained from the job preview.

4) Improve your Electronic Image.  Conduct an internet search on yourself.  This gives you an idea of what a potential employer will learn about you prior to your application.   Delete any defamatory photos, writings or negative materials.  Avoid personal position on political and religious issues.  Maintain professionalism in your social media sites.  Create an e-mail address and voice mail system. 

5) Build your Professional Networking.  Identify and establish relationships with key resource individuals who you can approach for advice.  You can meet people face-to-face or via social media.  Some of these individuals may be family, instructors, co-workers, supervisors, friends, etc.  You may solicit the help of a mentor if you desire.

6) Review & Update your Résumé.  Your résumé should target the specific career, position and employer you have an interest in.

7) Design a Professional Personal Business Card.  A business card is optional.  However, it provides the opportunity for you to share relevant information about you to potential employers without any encumbrances.  Keep it easy to need; avoid graphics, fancy fonts and multi colors.  Be prepared to share your card with anyone you meet.

8) Revise your Professional Portfolio.  Your portfolio should be kept neat and organized and should include relevant documents (see more information on this website) and other helpful tips.  Prepare a hard copy as well as an electronic portfolio.

9) Submit Solicited and Unsolicited Applications.  Ensure you have the correct spelling and gender of the name of the person you should write to.  Send a copy of your application to the human resource manager and to the manager of your target company.  For unsolicited applications visit your target companies - treat as an interview.

10) Protect your Privacy.  Be cautious when sharing information about yourself.  Only share information with reputable sources.  Beware of identity theft.

11) Keep a Positive Attitude.  The job seeking process can become stressful and disappointing.  Stay focused, positive, active, keep learning, stay connected and volunteer as much as possible.  Maintain you self-confidence.  Do not quit your current job before accepting a new job.  Do not speak ill of your current or former employer/company.

Source: 

Anderson, L. E., & Bolt, S. B. (2013). Professionalism: Skills for workplace success (3rd ed.).

Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.