It's tough out there in the job market, and it's critical to be prepared with the right tools. Of course, you need an up-to-date resume and some interview attire, but that's not all. Here are ten things that every job seeker must have: 1) a grown-up, non-free email account. Nothing at hotmail or msn, and nothing with sailinggirl or babytoasty in it. 2) a voicemail system that you listen to regularly, with a message thats not too silly. 3) a job search business card - even if you are already employed and you have a company business card. Go to www.vistaprint.com and get the free business cards there (you have to pay for shipping) with your name, email address, phone number, and three bullet points on them. The bullet points should highlight the three most compelling points about you - for instance Marketing Research Professional; Agency and In-House Experience; and Fanatical About ROI. 4) membership in the online network WorldWIT (its free: sign up at www.worldwit.org) - just join whichever chapter is closest to you. 5) membership in LinkedIn (its also free: www.linkedin.com) and connections to as many former colleagues, friends and business contacts as you can manage. 6) a brisk, pithy resume of ONE PAGE in three formats: plain text (for inclusion in email messages), MS Word, and hardcopy. 7) a crisp, on-the-spot elevator speech about your background and your ideal next job. Practice in front of the mirror. When you're asked, for instance at a networking event, to talk about yourself, you don't want to stumble. 8) one killer outfit for the Very Special Interview, and one slightly less killer (meaning expensive) outfit for every other interview. 9) a headhunter in your pocket - just to advise you, whether youre headhunter material or not. 10) a computer with internet connection. If you dont have one, get familiar with your local Kinkos! With the Job-Seeker's Toolkit assembled, you're ready to hit the ground running. One other item that might come in handy is a sense of humor: you're sure to see some very strange and amusing things once you hit the circuit. Keep your chin up! There's learning in all of it. |
