Job Search Checklist
Table of Contents
Preparation Phase
Create your resume
Prepare several versions (a different one for each position you are applying for).
Create Electronic Versions of Resume
Use plain text, standard fonts for all resumes to be imbedded in e-mails or attachments.
Test your resume
Show it to several people and get their suggestions.
Define your limits
Geographic preferences, salary, job type.
List everyone you know
Categorize and prioritize your list (Your Network).
List companies who might hire you.
Categorize and prioritize your list (Your Target Companies)
Create a Record Keeping System
Calls/messages sent, companies/people contacted, responses received, resumes sent, information received, meeting and phone call notes, interviews, thank you notes sent.
Create a Weekly Schedule & List of Tasks
Set aside particular hours each day for job searching.
Create Self-Marketing Materials.
Brochure? List of projects? Paper versions? Electronic versions?
Create Business or Networking Cards
Hand them out at meetings, interviews, etc.
Create a Personal Marketing Campaign
Job search plan of what you will do when, how many people you will contact, etc.
Develop a Needs-Contribution Statement
List of industry requirements compared to your list of capabilities.
Contact people who may be references
Both professional and personal; use them as "advisors" for your job search.
Create your "30-Second Elevator" Speech
Name, qualifications, capabilities, history, skills.
Practice your "Reasons for Leaving" Speech
If you are going to need to leave your current job to pursue you new job, prepare a professional statement explaining why.
Write several sample Cover Letters
Different versions for different jobs, on both paper and electronic.
Prepare short versions of Your Biography
For inclusion in e-mails, job search internet sites, etc.
Check the Resource Center, Library, Bookstores, etc
For job search and how-to resources, book, and articles.
Gather office materials
Resume paper, stamps, envelopes, paperclips, a professional pen (that does not click).
Start an Appointment Calendar
Paper or electronic (whichever will keep you better organized).
Set up a Workspace
To keep your records and materials orderly, space for computer, printer, etc.
Set up E-mail
Make sure it is a professional sounding e-mail account (school e-mail addresses are fine), create your e-signature.
Set up phone Answering Service
Create a professional outgoing message.
Create a Personal Job Search Website
Include your resume, projects (remember anyone may be able to see it).
Active Job Search Phase
Contact everyone you know
Use this list you created in the Startup Phase (talk to anyone new you meet).
Contact people that know of openings
Ask them for additional opportunities & possibilities, names, companies, etc.
Contact people to ask for an interview
Ask them for advice about your job search, not for a job.
Attend Professional Society Events
Tell everyone you meet about your job search, pass out business cards, collect names.
Attend Social & Community Events
Tell everyone you meet about your job search, pass out business cards, collect names.
Join a career orientated support group.
Expand your Internet search
Respond immediately to any openings, in your field, that you see.
Subscribe to mailing lists and ENewsletters
May list jobs, networking information, events.
Revise Resume and other materials
Keep all your information updated as changes happen with you and the job market.
Register with Job Search Agencies
Employment agencies, placement agencies, temp agencies, etc.
Answer the Phone in a Professional Agency
Minimize background noise, be ready to take notes.
List Questions to Ask an Interviewer
The interviewer may call, so be prepared with questions and answers.
Practice Interview Questions & Answers
The interviewer may call, so be prepared with questions and answers.
Do something professional every week
Do volunteer work, or attend courses, workshops, events, trainings, or presentations.
Create an Interview Agenda
List items you want to cover in the interview and take it with you to the interview.
Weekly Tasks to React to Immediately
E-mails, letters, and thank you notes.
Phone calls.
Meetings.
Other networking activities.
Check printed want ads.
Updated resume and other documents.
Update and review Job Search Plan.
Update List of Tasks to be completed.
Updated Weekly Calendar.
Daily Tasks to React to Immediately
Respond to any opportunities.
Check E-mail several times a day.
Check Internet Job Search sites and Newsletters.
Check Job Posting on Target Company Websites.
Contact more companies and people.
Check your messages in case you missed a call.
Maintain your personal appearance.
Do something fun and personal (to remain sane).
Download or Print this Job Search Checklist
Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.
Presented by:
Alex Strickland
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Introduction
Who it's for
This Job Search Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.
- Avoid forgetting - keep all your Job Search essentials in one place (external memory)
- Save time - start from a proven Job Search structure instead of a blank page
- Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
- Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
- Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time
How to use it
How to use this Job Search Checklist
- Save Job Search Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
- Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for Job Search (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
- If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
- Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.