Preparing For Work Search


Never before has job search been more challenging. To succeed in getting work in today's competitive and changing market, you need up-to-date, creative job search skills.

Job search involves:

	self-knowledge and self-acceptance
	knowledge of the job market and your specific job targets
	job search tools, such as resumes, covering letters, letters of inquiry, thank you letters
	interview presentation skills
	ability to deal with rejection
	ability to deal with a job offer (decision-making and negotiation skills)

Whether you're experiencing work search for the first time ever or for the first time in a few years, a successful outcome will take:

	determination
	energy
	confidence
	knowledge
	skills

Job search is selling. Effective salespersons know their product, including its strengths and weaknesses. This enables them to emphasize the strengths and anticipate buyer resistance to the weaknesses. The same principles apply in job search. The product is you.

Targeting

The key to effective work search is to know what you are looking for. Your work search strategy will be easier to determine once your targets are set.

To effectively match your needs, interests, aptitudes and competencies (skills) to the world of work requires considerable self-analysis. If you invest the time and energy, you will be clearer about your needs and able to target employers more effectively. And you will be well rewarded by positive results.

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