Career and Job-Search Checklist of Successful Job-Seekers

In all circumstances, but especially in an ultra-competitive job market, the most prepared candidate is in the best position to seize the opportunity of an open career position. It is common that for every position you actively pursue, there are dozens of other similarly qualified applicants applying for the position ahead of you. To ensure that you are giving yourself the best possible chance to come out on top, devise a plan and follow it diligently when preparing to go for the job you deserve. Follow this checklist to make sure you cover all of the important aspects of a successful job search.

Update Your Resume

It is an important practice to target your resume toward the position you are currently seeking. Most people do not craft a resume for each position, but adjusting your objective and highlighting the most relevant experience will go a long way toward making sure your resume stands out among a crowd of equally impressive compositions.

Also, be sure to include your most recent experience to reflect the most complete accounting of your skill and experience.

Update Your Contacts List

Prospective employers will often ask for references as part of your interviewing process. It is common that some of the information you have for previous employers and other references has changed since the last time you needed them. Review your contacts list and update any changed information. Contact your references to alert them of the chance they may be called upon to provide information about you.

Check Your Wardrobe

Your wardrobe is an important factor of your interview and you may be required to don attire different from what was the standard dress code at your current of recent position. Make sure the business professional clothing you possess is up to par. Part of your wardrobe check should include ensuring each item fits properly and reflects current style. Purchase new items of alter your current clothing if necessary – you never know how quickly after your search begins that you may need to appear for an interview.

Review Likely Interview Questions

While every interview is different, you have no doubt become accustomed to answering the basic interview questions concerning your goals and circumstances of your previous employment stops. Review the likely questions so that you are prepared to give complete and succinct answers during an interview.

One way to prepare is by writing a list of questions on a sheet of paper or PC document. Under each question, outline your goals in answering the question. After choosing the points that are most important, create a response that accomplishes your goals and commit the reply to memory. While you may not be able to recite the answer verbatim, having a sharp response to a question will project a favorable impression during an important interview.

Your checklist will not only prepare you for the rigors of your upcoming job hunt, you will be able to relax having made sure each area is adequately addressed beforehand. A relaxed interviewee is commonly the candidate who performs best. Good luck!