"An obstacle may be either a stepping stone or a stumbling block." — Anonymous
So you need a job, but you are not sure where to start or what type of job you want. You are not alone, most people feel the same way at some point in their lives. Continue with this lesson to learn tips and tricks to finding that perfect job.
Don't let the job search process be a stumbling block, use it as a stepping stone to learn about yourself, potential employers, and career opportunities.
Motivation for Your Job Search
Steps to a Successful Job Search
Your job search should include the following:
- Determine the type of work you want to do.
- Prepare your resume.
- Network with people you know and gather your professional references.
- Use multiple sources to find job opportunities.
- Apply for positions.
- Follow-up on applications.
Continue this lesson to learn more about each of the steps.
Step One
Determine the type of work you want to do
Three areas to assess when considering a career are your interests, work values, and your skills.
Activities:
Complete the 3 short surveys and, explore and record the details of your results.
Using your results complete the reflection activity below.
- What are your top 2 interests? List 3 jobs that would allow your to do work that fits your interests.
- What are your top 3 work values? List 3 jobs that would allow you to do work that best suits your values.
- What are your top 6 skills? List 3 jobs that would allow you to use your top six skills.
- What similarities do you see in your responses?
Use the information from your reflection to select careers that best suit you.
Step Two
Prepare your resume
Resumes are always difficult to write the first time. However, once you have a resume always keep it on file, it becomes a living document that you update as your skills, experience, education and career goals change.
Additional tips for resumes:
- Always save a copy.
- Proof read and proof read again! One error can land your resume in the NO pile.
- Do not include references, those will be on your application.
- Use examples of accomplishments that demonstrate skills needed for the job to which you are applying.
- Customize your resume for each position to which you are applying.
Activities:
- Review the sample resumes at the link below. Be sure to select samples that closely match the career to which you are applying.
- Watch the "How to Write a Resume with NO Experience" video.
- Open the Indeed.com Resume Builder at the link below. Follow the instructions to build a resume. If needed watch the "Creating your Indeed Resume" video.
- Download and save the file.
You do not need to create a profile to download the resume and save it. However, if you want to save it on indeed.com and return to update and edit it, you will need to create a profile.
Step Three
“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” Michele Jennae
Use your network
Now that you have an a better idea of the type of work you want to do and the skills you have that match the job, you can focus on developing your network. When you are just starting out it may seem like there isn't anyone in your network. However, that is not the case.
Who is in your network activity:
- Who is in your network? Write down the names of teachers, counselors, coaches, administrators, club advisors, supervisors, mentors, co-workers or co-volunteers.
- Why would you include these people? They can speak to your attendance, work ethic, accomplishments, skills, strengths, initiative, and persistence. All of which are being sought by employers.
Ask for references activity:
- The next step is to contact people from your list that you feel could be positive references for you. Explain to them that you are looking for a job and would like them to be a reference.
- For each person who agrees to being your reference collect the following information: First and last name, address (home or work), phone number, and email address. This information will be used for your applications.
Networking activity:
- Watch the video below to learn how to develop an elevator pitch to sell yourself to potential employers.
- Practice your elevator pitch with your friends, family, or references and ask for feedback.
- Use the feedback to improve your elevator pitch.
Social media activity:
- Complete the lesson at the link below to learn about using social media to grow your network.
- Watch the "How to Network to Get an Interview" video.
Check Point
Step Four
Use multiple sources to find job opportunities
Many people make the mistake of not thinking of or using all the resources that provide employment opportunities.
Types of resources available to find jobs:
- Company websites- Look for the careers link on the company webpage; it is usually at the bottom or top of the page.
- Job search engines- A website that pulls job listings from all over the internet to their website.
- Online and paper classified ads
- Job boards- A website that companies pay to post their job listings.
- Networking- Talk to friends, family, and the people on your network list and ask if they know of any job openings. Many job openings are never posted because they are filled through word of mouth.
- Social Media- Contact recruiters for companies you would like to work for through your professional social media accounts.
- Career Fair- Virtual or in person having a plan can make it a beneficial experience. Watch the "2020 Virtual Career Fair Tips" video.
Job search activities:
- List an example of each of the job search resources listed above. For example, a link, name, contact information, etc. Hint: a few examples can be found below.
- Using the list of examples begin your job search. List one job opening from each resource that you would like apply for.
- Watch the "Best Places to Find a Job" video and take notes.
- Evaluate each of your job listings for credibility using your notes from the video. If one isn't credible it is ok. Just be sure to mark it off your list!
- Analyze each job posting identifying and writing down key information such as: application process, resume submission, skills and qualities required or desired, educational requirements, and certifications. This information will help ensure your resume and application highlight what makes you the best person for the job.
Step Five
Applying for the Jobs
Using all of the work you have completed so far you will now apply for each of the jobs that you have identified. To do this there are several things that need to be completed
Tips on applying for a job in person:
- Asking for an application in person? Always ask for 2, just in case you make a mistake.
- Take all of your information with you. Hint: take a completed generic application with you so you can copy the information to the company application.
- Make sure you have have the following with you 2 black pens, resume, cover letter, certifications, identification, etc...
Completing a paper application activity:
- Open the Sonic application from the link below and print it. (if you can't print, write down all of the requested information on a sheet of paper.
- Read the entire application before you start filling anything in.
- Fill out the application with true and correct information.
- Not sure how to complete some of the sections of the application? Watch the "Filling Out Job Applications" video.
Tips for completing online applications:
- Spelling, capitalization, and grammar still count! Proof read and proof read again.
- Make sure any documents you attach are in the proper file format.
- Follow all instructions.
Applying online activity:
- Watch the "How to Apply for a Job Online" video.
- Open the "Practice Online Job Application" link and complete the practice online application. When complete, click the submit button and print or save the file when you close the page or it will not save your information.
Get ready for the real thing activity:
- Update the resume that you developed. Be sure to add key words and focus on skills and strengths that were mentioned in the job description. This is imperative and must be done for each job you apply for.
- Save the updated resume as a copy and title it so that you know what job you used it to apply for. For example, First and Last Name - Sonic
- If required, draft a cover letter specific to the job you are applying for (additional resources are provided at the end of the lesson).
- Now go to the company website, physical location, or job search engine and apply for the jobs you previously identified.
Step Six
Follow-up on your applications
Following-up on an application is an important part of the job search process. This is the opportunity for you to connect with the hiring manager and put a face to your name.
Tips for following-up on applications:
- If you applied in person follow up within a week. However, if you applied online, you should wait two weeks as it takes time for your information to reach the hiring manager.
- Research the company and attempt to learn the hiring manager's name. This enables you to ask for them by name and increases your chances of making contact.
- Contact can be made via telephone, email, or in person.
- While you are waiting stay productive by learning about the companies you applied for, creating a professional eportfolio, updating your social media, and preparing answers for potential interview questions.
Additional Resources
Cover letters
A cover letter goes beyond your resume by adding context to your skills, abilities, and accomplishments while highlighting how you will benefit the company. If an employer requests a cover letter, do not apply without one!
To learn more watch the video below and click on the resources.
Video interviews
A video interview is a job interview that takes place in different locations and uses video technology as a means to communicate and connect.
Video interviews are becoming a popular way for employers to save time and money. Unlike traditional, in-person interviews, video interviews can be done anywhere, allow more people to be involved in the hiring and decision-making process, and are easier to fit into busy work schedules.
To learn more and prepare for a video interview, complete the lessons at the link below:
Gaining Experience
A great way to gain work experience is to volunteer. Volunteering builds social capitol, provides a space to learn and practice the skills employers are looking for, and lets you explore career options you might not have thought about. These types of activities stand out on applications and help separate you from the rest of the applicants.
To learn more about volunteerism and where to start, follow the link below:
Explore the K12 Career Education Navigator
The K12 Career Technical Education (CTE) Navigator helps you explore high school courses and career pathways offered across San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Browse by industry sector, county, school district, and more to find options that match your interests and career goals and see how these pathways can prepare you for college, certifications, apprenticeships, or the workforce.
Credits:
Created with images by Razvan Chisu - "Looking Up" • Glenn Carstens-Peters - "If you have a little bit of time left, how about start writing your own bucket list" • Florian Klauer - "vintage typewriter" • santiago filio - "untitled image"