Job search checklist

You know what you need to do to maximise your chances of finding work. Now it’s a matter of doing it! Use this checklist to make sure you are ready to hit the job market.

Identify and record three strong skills that you would like to use in a job
Identify and record three job preferences
Create your resume on disk and tailor for each job preference you identify
Create a general cover letter on disk (this is a letter you can readily adapt to specific jobs)
Set up an email address and add it to your resume – check your inbox every couple of days
Link the Australian JobSearch automatch service to your email address or mobile phone (if you have one)
Nominate two referees; let them know the kinds of jobs you are applying for and keep them up-to-date regarding your job search activities
Regularly update your vocational profile (as part of the Australian JobSearch database) to ensure you receive relevant job matches – you can do this at a JobSearch Kiosk
Create a cold canvassing cover letter on disk (this is a letter you can send out to employers who have not advertised for jobs)
Complete a phone script (this can be readily adapted for each new situation)
Record and practice the answers to the most frequently asked job interview questions
Create a post-interview thank you note
Consider appropriate presentation and clothing for job interviews
Investigate your transport options and obtain timetables well in advance – always plan to arrive 15 minutes early

Handy Hint
Don’t be left stranded for answers – anticipate difficult questions before the interview and practice, practice, practice.

The hidden job market

Did you know that the majority of jobs are never advertised? The ‘hidden’ job market is the source of many job placements, and you need to know how to tap into it. Use these simple steps to unearth the hidden jobs.

Step one: Think of the type of business or industry you want to work for and use phone directories or the Internet to get contact details of employers. HINT: If you have found a job advertised by a company you like the sound of, look that business up in the Yellow Pages and then contact other businesses under the same heading.

Step two: Make the most of your existing networks. The more people that know you are looking for a job, the greater the chance a good job will come your way.

Step three: Cold canvassing. This is where you sell yourself to businesses that have not advertised for jobs. Send out letters or phone the business direct to let them know that you are looking for work.

Step four: Persevere. Remember that every business you contact may be a potential employer, and it is important to get your name out there as much as possible.

Weekly job search goals

While on the hunt for a job, set yourself a weekly goal of how many advertised jobs you are going to apply for, how many jobs from Australian JobSearch you are going to apply for, and how many businesses you are going to cold canvass.

Handy Hint
What are your top three selling points? Make sure employers know them too.