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Kicking off a job hunt or trying to reenergize an existing search can feel a bit daunting. But, having a comprehensive job-search checklist handy can make this whole process a lot easier. So, let’s take an in-depth look at everything you’ll need to nail this from start to finish.
Oh, and because it’s from start to finish, feel free to jump around between the sections:
Before you update your resume and start applying to open opportunities, you’ll need to understand what you’re looking for first. Are you hoping for more responsibility or a shorter commute? Are you dying to work for a company that allows dogs in the office? Taking time to identify your goals (big and small) will help you to home in on the types of jobs you should be targeting.
Feeling stuck? Try ranking these five key factors in order of importance:
If you value stability over all else, a burgeoning startup may not be the best fit for you. Conversely, if company culture and opportunity for growth are at the top of your list, a well-established corporation probably isn’t a perfect match.
Understanding the specific day-to-day responsibilities you’d like to have will also be essential as you begin to update your resume, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile. Try asking yourself what you’ve enjoyed doing most throughout your career and what you’d prefer never to do again. This exercise should help you to picture your ideal role more clearly.
Lastly, try browsing job postings for the different types of roles you’re considering. Do you find the responsibilities described to be interesting and exciting or dull and boring? Make note of the duties that appeal most to you and keep them in mind as you begin searching and reading job descriptions.
When a prospective employer looks at your resume, he should should instantly understand what type of position you’re looking for and how your experience lines up with his needs. He should also be able to easily pick out your greatest accomplishments.
It’s important that you don’t simply list your past responsibilities; you want your resume to tell a compelling story of what you’ve accomplished and how your experience would translate into a new role. For example, if you’re planning to apply for executive assistant opportunities that require extensive calendaring, be sure to highlight your experience managing robust schedules for three C-level executives.
Although you’ll need to update your resume for each and every role you apply to in order to ensure that you’re featuring your most relevant experience, having a solid draft ready to go will make your life much easier when you’re in the throes of the search.
Once you’ve finished updating it, run through the checklist below to make sure you’ve covered all of your bases.
There is some debate around whether or not cover letters are still necessary, but as long as certain prospective employers still require them, you won’t want to skip this step. A stellar one can be the difference between landing an interview or landing in the “thanks, but no thanks” pile, so let’s make sure you’re turning in your A-game.
While you’re also going to need to tailor this for every role you apply to, having an initial template or outline prepared will save you time. Here’s a list of everything your cover letter should include to get you started.
My cover letter:
For a lot of recruiters these days, if you aren’t on LinkedIn you don’t exist. Developing a stellar profile and a strong presence will build your professional credibility and help you to get noticed. Once you get your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and packed with relevant keywords, you’ll likely be surprised at how much more attention your profile will get.
Let’s take a look at the elements of a standout profile. Keep in mind that this should be an extension of your resume and cover letter—not a carbon copy.
My LinkedIn profile:
Don’t forget to maintain your presence so you appear active—you can do it in 15 minutes a week.
You don't need to include a list of references on your resume or cover letter, but you should have a list of strong, professional options ready to go. Keep in mind that most companies have fairly strict policies around references and will typically only confirm your job title, dates of employment, and salary information to a prospective employer, so you’ll want to secure others who would be comfortable speaking from personal experience and not on behalf of the company.
Start by identifying three to five people. These can be past or present colleagues, professors, or supervisors. Then, ask each person in advance if he or she would be willing to serve as a reference for you. If they say yes, confirm the preferred method of contact, and be sure to stay in touch. If it looks like a prospective employer is getting ready to check your references, give everyone on your list a heads up.
It’s possible that you may come across someone who is unwilling or unable to serve as a reference for you, and that’s OK! You only want to include people who are excited to talk about how great you are. Furthermore, if you suspect that one of your references isn’t giving you the glowing recommendation you’d hoped for, take her off your list. You should feel totally confident in each and every name you provide.
