Ten Steps to a Successful Job Search

1. Sign up with job-matching services on the Web
2. Check out the classified ads
3. Search through the extensive job listings at the Job Market
4. Contact private employment agencies
5. NETWORK!
6. Work on your resume and cover letter
7. Prepare a list of professional (work related) references including name, title, business, address and phone
8. JUST DO IT! Apply for 10 jobs
9. Work on your first impression
10. Ace the interview!

1. Sign up with job-matching services on the Web.
   These services let you enter your resume online, where prospective employers can view it. Signing up is simple, and lets you easily and quickly widen your job search. Start with CalJOBS , a comprehensive statewide job service. Also check out the "Where to Look for Work" section of this website.
   
   
2. Check out the classified ads.
   Buy a newspaper, or save money by searching the classified ads online -- most newspapers have free websites. Regional papers and copies of the Times Standard daily classifieds are available at all Job Market locations.
   
   
3. Search through the extensive job listings at the Job Market.
   We keep State, City, County, Educational, and other job listings on hand.
   
   
4. Contact private employment agencies.
   These agencies can place you in temporary or permanent positions, and are often a great way to get your foot in the door.
   
   
5. NETWORK!
   Tell everyone you know that you're job hunting. Over half of the people who find jobs get them through referrals! Act on every tip you get. If you want a job, make it known.
   
   
6. Work on your resume and cover letter.
   These might be the most important documents you'll ever create, so it pays to spend time getting them right. You'll want employers to know that you are qualified, interested, and enthusiastic! Check out our section on resume tips, tricks, and online resources, or visit The Job Market's Resource Room, which can be a big help in this process, providing coaching, tips, computer access, paper, and advice.
   
   Once you've created your award-winning resume, make sure you save it on a disk, along with your cover letters and references. This will save you time when you have to update these documents or tailor them for specific jobs. Need computer access or a disk? Visit The Job Market Resource Room.
   
   
7. Prepare a list of professional (work-related) references including name, title, business, address, and phone.
   Don't forget to check with your references before you use them, and thank them for their help. Remember, they're part of your network.
   
   
8. JUST DO IT!
   Apply for 10 jobs. Follow the application instructions EXACTLY. Keep copies of applications, job descriptions, cover letters, etc. Ask The Job Market staff about classes and resources for preparing your applications.
   
   
9. Work on your first impression.
   Everything you do and say will be crucial in making a good first impression with potential employers. Make sure your appearance is neat and professional, and keep your interview clothes clean and pressed. If you need interview clothing, a resource list is available in The Job Market lobby. At the interview, shake hands, make eye contact, and convey a positive attitude. When you leave messages on voice mail, make sure to be clear and articulate (no heavy metal in the background). Remember, you only have one chance at a first impression.
   
   
10. Ace the interview!
    Before you get an invitation to interview, read up on interviewing tips, and practice, practice, practice! Once you are scheduled, research the company and the skills required for the job, and be prepared to talk about how your skills relate to the position. After the interview, send a "Thank You" note and follow up by phone or letter if appropriate. This will communicate your interest and enthusiasm. For more information about interviewing, take advantage of The Job Market's free classes, guidance, and reference books, as well as websites available on our public-access computers.