The six steps of the job search process are laid out in sequential order so you can follow them one at a time:
- You need to know what you want (step 1) in order to act on your job search.
- You want to have your marketing material in place (step 2) before you meet with any prospective employers.
- You want to research jobs, companies, and industries (step 3) to prepare for meeting prospective employers. This is detailed research into trends, challenges, culture, and other nuanced information.
Some of this research will entail speaking to people in the areas you are targeting for your search, so you want to have your marketing ready to be shared.
- You network and interview (step 4) with prospective employers you discover from your research.
- You have to stay motivated and organized (step 5) as you juggle these meetings and absorb all the information you are learning. At this point, you may also see some problems with your search that need troubleshooting (also step 5).
- All these networking meetings and interviews culminate in a job offer that you negotiate (step 6) with your future employer.
Many job seekers are overwhelmed at the beginning of their job search. There seems to be so much to do—résumés, interviews, and social media. It is not surprising that many job seekers are afraid of networking!
A sequential job search process means that you don’t have to worry about what comes next. Focus on where you are for your search, and give yourself time on that step. Before you worry about résumés (or other items in step 2), let yourself explore possibilities, ideals, and desires (step 1). Before you get too anxious about interviewing (step 4), know that you will have the preparation of knowing yourself (step 1), positioning yourself effectively (step 2), and learning about the people and companies you will meet through in-depth research (step 3). There will be time for the job search to progress.
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