How To Build Your Job Search Plan
Last updated March 2, 2023
If you’re interested in finding a job or internship, there are a few steps you can take to get organized and start your search with confidence. In this piece we’ll break down how to build a job search plan that sets you up for success to find your next gig!
Determine the type of job you want
Before you start your search, think about the type of job you want and the kind of work you enjoy doing. If you’re a student or have responsibilities that take up a large portion of your time, perhaps a part-time job may work best for you. If you’re attending a trade/vocational school or need some hands-on experience to advance your career, maybe an internship is a good fit! Regardless of the opportunity you’re looking for, it’s important to take some time to consider what’s going to be the best fit for you, your schedule, and your obligations.
Prepare your resume
An applicant’s resume is their first major impression on potential employers, so having one that’s organized, has active language, and highlights their skills and accomplishments is essential. In fact, a great resume can help an applicant stand out from the rest of the crowd!
Some job seekers may be unsure of what they can include on their resume, especially if they have no previous work experience. However, we’re here to assure you that there’s lots of great things you can include on your resume that will show employers how unique you are!
Perhaps you speak a second language. Maybe you babysit kids in your neighborhood on the weekends. You may even be a member of a school club that plays video games together. These are all excellent things to include on your resume that show employers you’re responsible, intelligent, and are community oriented! Don’t sell yourself short - think about all the things that make you unique, and add them to your resume.
To help you in your resume creation, we created a few free first resume templates - download one and start customizing it today! Already have a resume that could use some feedback? Send it to us! We’ll review it for free and give you some helpful, actionable tips and guidance.
Secure your references
Professional references are people in your network (bosses, coworkers, coaches, supervisors, mentors, etc.) who can speak positively about your skills and qualifications to potential employers. When applying, some companies will require you list references that they’ll reach out to in order to learn more about you and your experience. Be sure to give someone a head’s up if you listed them as a reference - not only is this the polite thing to do, it can give your references some extra time to prepare to talk to employers about how awesome you are!
Not sure how to secure a reference? Read our guide on the do’s and don’ts of asking for job references.
Draft a cover letter
While not every job you apply for will require you to submit a cover letter, doing so anyways can help you stand out from other candidates. An effective cover letter should explain your interest in the position you’re applying for and highlight the skills and experience that make you the best candidate. Different jobs will require different cover letters, so we recommend drafting a basic cover letter that highlights your basic skills and abilities, and tweaking it for each position you apply for.
Start your search
Ready to search? Here are some great places to start:
- JobLaunch
- Indeed
- Glassdoor
- Your network
- Your school’s career center (if you’re in college)
Brush up on your interview skills
You never know when a hiring manager could reach out to you - so be ready to rock your interview by taking the time to prepare in advance! Read our tips on how to prepare for a phone or video interview and learn more about the top questions you can ask a potential employer during an interview to make a lasting impression!
Stay persistent
Applying for jobs requires a good amount of persistence and follow-through, and it’s easy to be discouraged if you don’t hear back from employers, but don’t give up! With some persistence and dedication, you will find a great gig!
Need some more tips to prepare for your job search? Text #Jobs to 33-55-77 to speak with one of our advisors!