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Organize Your Job Search
By: Elizabeth L.
Beginning a job search can be overwhelming especially because a job hunt can feel like a full-time job on its own. Add to the job search the time required of you for everything else in your busy life, and the whole can seem insurmountable.
Having a plan can make the job hunt manageable. These tips can help you get organized in your job search, allowing you to use your valuable time more effectively and find the position you want.
Know what you want!
Before you get started, it’s important to evaluate your priorities especially if you are embarking on a new career path. What do you want to do? What skills do you have to offer? What is the lowest salary you could reasonably accept? What companies in your area would be good for you, and what are the best ways to find out about openings in these companies? Do you have any contacts that could find out about openings or give you referrals? You need to be able to answer these questions in order to begin effectively searching for jobs that will work for you.
Have an organized work center.
A dedicated workspace breeds efficiency. Give yourself an organized area that will eliminate distractions and allow you to easily access everything that you need. Make sure that you have a computer with an Internet connection and a working printer.
One tried and true method of organization is a job-search binder. Use a D-ring binder to store everything you need in one handy place. Use dividers to make sections like timelines, to-do lists, contact lists, job applications/resumes/cover letters sent, references and letters of recommendation, certifications and test scores, company research, and anything else that works for you.