Your Essential Job Search Checklist for Success

Last Updated on December 17, 2024

This post focuses on repairs and maintenance required to keep your job search on the road. What exactly does this mean? Things change and you need to keep all of your stuff up to date. Some things may not work as well as they used to (or maybe they are not working at all). So while you may think that your job search is in good shape, it’s always a good idea to get an oil change every few thousand miles or so.

What This Article Covers

• How to keep your resume updated to reflect your latest accomplishments.
• Why having a structured job search marketing plan increases success.
• The importance of tracking your job search activity to stay organized.
• How to evaluate and adjust your job search resources for better results.
• Strategies to set clear and achievable job search goals.
• Steps to update and optimize your professional online presence.
• How researching potential employers can align your goals with opportunities.
• The value of networking and building relationships to uncover hidden job opportunities.

Review Your Resume

When was the last time you reviewed your resume? If it was more than 3 months ago, you are way overdue for a resume review. There are always the big things (like, did you get promoted, did your boss get promoted, did you get more responsibilities) that you really should capture as they happen. It is usually the small things you forget like, major accomplishments in the last few months or a new project. You should review your resume once per month (but certainly no longer than every three months) and revise it as necessary. How Often Should You Update Your Resume?

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Review Your Job Search Plan

If there were no commercials for products, how would you know they existed? The same goes for your job search – if no one knows you are looking for a job, how will anyone know to ask you to interview? If you don’t already have a job search marketing plan, then now is the time to create one.

If you already have a plan but are not getting much traction, now is the time to review and revise it. So what, exactly, is a job search marketing plan? It should include all of the companies where you would like to work, a list of recruiting firms you would like to work with, and a list of all of your friends, family, and acquaintances who can help you find a job. ==>> Why You Need a Job Search Marketing Toolkit

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Keep a List

Unless you are incredibly organized, I’m willing to bet that you don’t keep track of who you’ve contacted, where you’ve posted your resume, jobs you’ve applied for, etc. You need to keep an organized list of all of your activity otherwise you run the risk of applying twice or not updating key posted resumes. As with everything in life, there is a tool to help with this (it is called an organized list!). The list should include recruiters, anyone from your network that you’ve specifically contacted, and places where your resume is posted (job search sites, company career sites, etc.). Take a look at the following template ==>> Job Search Tracking Document

Change Your Resources

If you’ve not been getting much activity on your resume (more on this next), you need to think about using different resources. Start using different job search sites (but not more than 5), add additional companies to your list of targeted companies for job search, and search out the “friend of friends” on LinkedIn. Also, review your plan of “attack”. How are you spending your time? Have you allocated time to each of your job search resources? Maybe it’s time to reevaluate and spend your time differently.

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Cover Letter

You should have many versions of your cover letter. One for applying for specific jobs, one to introduce yourself to a Recruiter, one to introduce yourself to a company, and a generic cover letter for sites that require one. If you use one cover letter version for everything, start work on multiple versions. And, while I’m on the topic, each of your cover letters should be further “personalized” depending on what and where it is going. As an example, when applying for specific jobs, ensure you tailor the cover letter to the specific job and company. ==>>Tips to Improve your Cover Letters

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Set Clear Job Search Goals

Before diving into your job search, setting clear and realistic goals is crucial for success. Define what types of roles you want, preferred industries, and specific companies you aim to target. Consider factors like location, salary expectations, and job responsibilities to narrow your focus. By establishing clear goals, you can create a targeted approach that saves time and effort. This level of clarity also ensures that your applications align with your aspirations, helping you remain organized and motivated throughout the process.

Update Your Professional Online Presence

Your online presence, especially your LinkedIn profile, can make or break your job search. Recruiters often review online profiles to evaluate candidates, so ensure yours is polished and up to date. Use a professional headshot, craft a compelling summary, and showcase relevant skills and achievements. Remove outdated information and include recent roles or certifications. Additionally, consider cleaning up other social media accounts to ensure professionalism. An updated online presence improves your chances of being noticed and enhances your credibility in a competitive job market.

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Research Potential Employers

Thorough research on potential employers helps you identify companies that align with your career goals and values. Start by exploring company websites, reading mission statements, and reviewing recent news or projects. Pay attention to workplace culture, employee reviews, and growth opportunities to determine if the company is a good fit. Tailor your applications to highlight how your skills align with their objectives. Demonstrating company knowledge during interviews impresses employers and positions you as a proactive, well-prepared candidate who understands their organization.

Network with Purpose

Networking remains one of the most effective job search strategies. Reach out to industry professionals, former colleagues, and mentors to share your goals and seek advice. Attend virtual or in-person networking events, join professional groups, and actively engage on LinkedIn. When connecting with others, focus on building genuine relationships rather than asking for jobs immediately. A strong professional network increases your chances of learning about job openings before they’re advertised and can open doors to opportunities that align with your career goals.

Practice Your Interview Skills

Strong interview skills are essential for landing your desired role. Prepare by practicing common interview questions and refining your responses to highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Focus on showcasing how your qualifications align with the company’s needs. Use mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and improve body language. Additionally, research the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively. Practicing ensures you present yourself as a capable, confident, and well-prepared candidate during interviews.

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Follow Up on Applications

Following up on job applications is a key step many candidates overlook. After submitting your resume, wait about one week before sending a polite follow-up email to the hiring manager or recruiter. Reiterate your interest in the position and briefly mention why you are a strong fit. If you’ve interviewed, send a thank-you note within 24 hours to express appreciation and reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role. Proactively following up demonstrates professionalism, reinforces your interest, and helps keep you top of mind during the hiring process.