Check out the Creative Job Search guide, which has helped tens of thousands of people prepare for and launch a successful job search. Updated in 2024, the guide includes the latest tips for online and in-person networking, guidance on how to develop resume content that will get you through applicant tracking software screening, ways to prepare for tough interview questions and much, much more.
View a flip book of the entire 2024 edition of Creative Job Search.
This chapter covers career planning strategies that anyone could use – whether actively engaged in a search for a job now or not. It also contains helpful advice for dealing with job loss, from applying for unemployment insurance to finding affordable health care coverage to self care tips to reduce stress and keep yourself in the right frame of mind for a successful job search.
This chapter covers steps to take to set yourself up for a successful job search. First, establish measurable goals and stick to a schedule. Then, do your research on the labor market situation in your area and employers you are interested in. Finally, make sure you are keeping a good record of contacts and job leads.
This chapter details how to identify your skills and plan to highlight them in resumes, cover letters and interviews as the foundation of a successful job search. Descriptions of hard, soft and transferable skills are covered in this chapter, along with a list of common skills terms to help you brainstorm and hone in on what you will bring to a new position.
This chapter will help you prepare a toolkit of marketing materials that tell prospective employers who you are and describe your skills, experience and career goals. Marketing tools such as resumes, cover letters and business cards for networking need to be accurate, error-free and attractive to potential employers. View resume and cover letter samples and templates, too!
This chapter helps you prepare to submit an application by having all of your necessary information gathered in one place you can quickly access. Most employers also require references, so you will need to provide names and contact information for people who know you well and can speak about your
skills, experience and character. Finally, more employers are asking for work samples; pulling together a portfolio that highlights your previous work is a great way to showcase your skills and experience.
This chapter details the different ways employers find job candidates. Many employers post jobs publically, often online but sometimes with just a help wanted sign on a front door. Other jobs are never publicly posted and are found through networking. Understanding how employers hire and where to find open positions in today’s market will help you tremendously in landing a job.
This chapter provides an overview of using the internet to find available openings. While online job sites are constantly changing, there are some basic tips for making your online job search as efficient and effective as possible. Social media is also important for finding open positions and networking with people who can help you find the right career fit for you.
This chapter provides an overview of steps you can take to use your experience as an advantage and highlight the unique value older workers bring to the table. Ageism is real but don’t let it discourage you from finding and keeping employment!
All of your work researching potential employers, creating an effective resume and engaging in networking are designed to lead up to that final essential step in the job search process: the job interview. This chapter offers tips to successfully prepare for an interview, do company research, get ready for likely questions, practice responses to match your skills to the job and more!
This chapter provides an overview of post interview actions you can take to set yourself apart from other job candidates. Every job search needs finishing touches, those often overlooked actions likely to impress potential employers even if you don’t get the job this time around. They show an attention to detail, professionalism, and an appreciation for an employer’s time and consideration.
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