Everyone tells you that you need to have goals and a game plan, but what you really need is a checklist. You need to have a list of action items that you can rely on, so that when you’re stressed and tired and confused, or when you would rather do anything but the tasks ahead, you have a reference. A checklist is better than a reference because the checklist is your safety net. Doctors and pilots have checklists so that emergencies don’t become catastrophes. Appliance and utility repair people have checklists so they don’t kill themselves or blow up your house…
A checklist could save your life.
A checklist takes away the stress of wondering what to do. It gives you options and actions.
A checklist supports you.
A checklist can keep you from forgetting something important.
For many projects big and small, a checklist makes things a lot easier.
If you need a checklist for your job search, read on.
I’m offering you TEN KEY TO-DO’s that will make you a smart, effective job seeker. (If you think something is missing from this list, email me at lparadise.coach@gmail.com)
Here is Laura’s checklist for a successful, enjoyable job search. These are the things you will want to have to guide your search. So, if you are wondering what to do, look at the checklist and work on one of these items. If you need support or advice about how to do them, email me at lparadise.coach@gmail.com
- List of target companies
- Names of job roles
- A brief introduction that communicates your key strengths/achievements and what you’re interested in doing (target job/organization/role/impact)
- Networking outreach plan (who you’re going to reach out to and meet, how many per week, events or groups you will attend)
- Visibility plan (things you will do to be visible- everything from LI posts and volunteering to classes or workshops)
- Resume and Linkedin profile using career vocabulary that matches target company/role language. Content that’s relevant to the job, impact-loaded, clear and clean.
- Tracking system to ensure timely follow-ups, thank-you’s and getting back in touch with people you’ve met, been interviewed by.
- Interview stories using STAR model.
- Interview stories that respond to typical behavioral questions, that show what you “can do” for the company, not just what you have done.
- A self-care, mental and physical health support plan. Remember a job search is a marathon with potential for emotional ups and downs. Taking care of your whole self can help you keep a positive mindset, and add fun to your life.
(*) The Checklist Manifesto is a great book by Atul Gawande that offers examples of the important uses of checklists in many professions and industries.