To conduct a successful job search, you need to manage both the logistical dimensions
and your own attitudes and feelings. A summary of what (I hope) you now realize that it
takes to succeed:

1. You have established your job search goals and objectives.

2. You can articulate what you are looking for.

3. You can discuss your strengths and qualifications with networking contacts and
potential employers.

4. You know how to research your job targets and identify job leads.

5. You feel positive about your job search direction and strategy.

6. You have a network of people you can contact or, in the alternative, a strategy to
develop new contacts and resources.

7. You have—or can develop—a support system for yourself during your transition.

8. You are willing to work hard to find a new job.

9. You have the ability and desire to learn from your mistakes.

10. You are able to manage your negative feelings and thoughts.

11. You can recognize when you need help and aren’t afraid to ask for assistance and
guidance.

12. You are able to motivate yourself and take responsibility for your actions.

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1. Do you check several job posting sites (such as Monster.com [www.monster.com] or
Careerbuilder.com [www.careerbuilder.com]) every day and submit your resume to
appropriate positions?

2. Do you subscribe to at least one trade journal or professional publication with job
listings?

3. Are you member of at least one professional association in your industry?

4. Do you have a membership directory for a professional trade group, networking
group, or alumni association that you can use for networking purposes?

5. Have you reviewed your resume to make sure that it is on target and error free?

6. Are you doing Internet research to identify companies that might be interested in
hiring you?

7. Do you have an actionable networking strategy?

8. Are you conducting informational or exploratory interviews as part of your networking
strategy?

9. Are you persistent in following up on all job leads?

10. Have you researched and contacted employment agencies or executive recruiters in
your industry or occupation?

11. Do you know how to interview, or do you need more interviewing preparation and
practice?

12. Have you contacted your references to ask permission to use their names?

13. Do you know how to communicate your strengths and weaknesses and target
employers who can benefit from your qualifications and experience?

14. Do you have family and friends who can support you through this process?

15. Have you determined whether you can benefit from a career counselor and identified
and contacted career counselors who can coach you on job search strategies and
techniques?

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