NDT.org : Information : Job Tips : 12/11/2002 - Organizing Your Job Search

If you want to have an enjoyable and successful job search you need to be organized and persistent. It is valuable to understand what your goal is and work diligently towards it.

Adding structure to your job search will decrease the time it takes to get the job you want. You need to be working the system whether you are employed or unemployed, and even if you are not ready to move on to a new job right away, the system is the same whether you are looking for full or part-time employment, consulting, casual, or contracting work. Why? Because job search in a changing economy means you need to be constantly aware of the market, the opportunities inside and outside your present situation and of what you have to offer.

The time to become aware of your opportunities is not when you are under pressure to find a new job. Make sure you are always looking around, so you are not overwhelmed when and if the time comes for a real job search.

There are only four main aspects of a job-search. They are: targeting, getting interviews, interviewing, and following up. Every step of your job search develops out of your targets, which lead to interviews and then to job offers (The wonderful words you are waiting for, "we would like to make you an offer"). Make sure you don’t just accept any offer. Learn to negotiate for a mutually beneficial offer. If you are successful in these aspects, you will be focused and less affected by errors in other areas of your search.

Dedicate sufficient time and energy to your hunt if you seriously intend to find an appropriate position. A thorough search is so much work that the job you finally land will seem easy by comparison. On the other hand, job hunting is like any other skill: you will get better at it with practice. You will study the techniques, and you will learn more about what’s right for you. You will become aware of what’s happening in your chosen field, so that when you start a formal search it won’t take so long.

Job searching does not necessarily mean you want to change jobs now. Maybe your next job change is a few years down the road. Or maybe someone will change your job for you - without asking. Will you be ready for your next move?

It is important to plan your career transitions; don’t have them forced upon you. It is very important to constantly ask yourself: What job is right for me? What do I do well? What give me the most satisfaction in my job? The answers to these questions will help you assess you present job situation. Don’t leave your job for another one that is equally unsatisfying.

Career changes are initiated by organizational changes - such as down-sizing, closure, or a major technological change. You and your goals can also initiate it. Stay on top of your job searching skills and prepare your job search documents for an up coming change - when you least expect it.