You have all your tools-self-assessment, resume, and research-and now you are ready to use them. Write a cover letter (also called a letter of application) to each employer and mail it with your resume. Your cover letter gives you the chance to state which position you are applying for, to mention your strong points, and to ask for an interview. Be sure to address the cover letter to a specific person whenever possible. Remember that the best person to send your cover letter to is the person who would be your supervisor, rot the human resources department.
Fill out Job Applications
Some employers may require you to come in and fill out a company application form before considering you for a job. This small step is your first chance to show the employer the quality of your work. Brush up on the information these forms ask for so that you'll feel comfortable when the time comes for you to complete one.
Go to Interviews
When you receive that important phone call telling you the date of your interview, begin practicing your interviewing techniques. Prepare a list of personal and professional references to bring with you. Research the company so you can answer the interviewer's questions intelligently. Also prepare your own list of questions, about the company and the job.
Arrive for your interview on time and looking your best. Be ready to answer the interviewer's questions with poise and confidence. Watch your body language, voice, and mannerisms.
Consider each interview to be a learning experience and be prepared to evaluate yourself after each one. Whatever you do, remember that your work is not finished once the interview is over. Think of ways to improve your job-hunting skills, and use the time to follow up the interview with thank-you notes and phone calls to remind the employer that you're interested. Be assertive and show your attention to detail by following each visit or phone call with another call or brief note.
Survive the Job Hunt
Realize that your job hunt will progress more smoothly if you are organized. Keep notes on the people you've contacted and the next steps in your job search. Make do-lists and charts to keep all important data in front of you. Keep all your papers together in a folder so that neither a special document nor an opportunity will be lost.
Take time to assess your progress, and if necessary try some new job-hunting strategies. Be sure to take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Job hunting can be stressful, and in order to reach your goals you must learn to make your stress work for you.
Evaluate Job Offers
Your job hunt may be over, but you now face a decision that will have huge impact on your life. Carefully weigh all your options to make the career choice that is best for you.
Get to Work
The first few months on the job are fraught with difficulties. You may need to learn to adjust your work habits in order to better fit in at your work place.
