Ten Fundamental Steps for Success

Consider this.

The July, 2009 unemployment rate as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is 9.4% with over 247,000 jobs lost in July. Average monthly job loss for May through July (-331,000) was about half the average decline for November through April (-645,000).  Despite these lagging economic growth numbers, Federal Reserve chief Ben Bernanke has said that the economy is showing signs of recovery.

What does this mean for me? Should I give up my job search? No!!

What should I do then? Be persistent, confident, and above all patient.

Let’s start with ten fundamental steps that can help prepare you for success in your job search.

Networking – Whether it’s a relative, acquaintance, or people active in the field, surveys show that networking leads to the greatest percentage of job offers. For those in school or recent graduates, campus career services are an excellent resource to secure job leads and interview opportunities.

First Impressions – Your first Impression begins before you set foot in the door. Make sure you have a thorough cover letter and resume.

Experienced Candidate? – Try a Chronological Resume Format. Employment history is listed in reverse chronological order. Limit the length of the resume to no more than two pages. Tailor your resume to the applied for position.

Rookie Candidate? – A Functional Resume Format emphasizes education and skills while downplaying experience. Be sure to include any internships, volunteer service, and organizational memberships to exhibit your abilities and skills.

Mid-Level Candidate? – Try both. Combination Resumes emphasize skills, talent and experience as they relate to the position.

Interview Preparation – Prepare a list of questions to better understand the job responsibilities and requirements. Research the company’s history and core values and be prepared to ask how your skills can contribute to the company’s continued success.

Good Attitude – Remember through this entire process a positive attitude shows through.  Stay positive and keep your chin up!

Interview Follow-Up – Send a ‘thank you’ note, it keeps you top of mind.

Compensation – When the offer is extended, don’t focus on the salary. Consider the value of the entire offer, i.e., medical/dental/401K/bonus.

Be Patient – They’ve made the offer, now what? Take a day or two to review the offer. All that glitters is ‘not’ gold. Make a list of the pro’s and con’s of each offer to determine the ‘right fit’ for both the organization and your career.

These steps will not guarantee a job offer, however, they can significantly impact your chances for success. Most importantly, these fundamentals will help differentiate you from the competition. Remember to be persistent, confident, and above all patient. Your focus and determination will pay off in the end.

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