General Job Search Tips

Network: Most people find jobs through word-of-mouth. Talk to the people you know, including relatives, friends, professors, and former co-workers. Let them know that you are looking for work; ask their advice; seek out introductions to people in the field that interests you.

Customize: Create a custom version of your resume for each job or industry that interests you. Your resume is usually an employers first contact with you. Make sure it highlights your skills that relate to the job that employer is seeking to fill.

Know yourself: Identify your skills. Work on communicating them effectively. You need to be able to lay out your skills, and explain how they relate to the job you're seeking.

Organize and prioritize: Make a list to help keep track of your job search efforts. Preparing a list also helps you to organize your priorities and keeps you focused on your goal -- finding your perfect job.

Do your homework: Read the newspaper and trade journals to remain current on developments in your field of interest. Knowing the latest trends and mergers will help set you apart from other candidates in an interview.

Practice, practice, practice: Preparation is the key to a successful interview. Know your skills and be ready to illustrate how they relate to the job in question. Practice with a friend to get comfortable with your responses and to formulate b answers to questions you might not anticipate.

Follow up: Follow up on all leads as soon as possible. If you don't, your competition may. And, following an interview, always send a thank-you note the same day.

Keep your head up: Looking for a job can feel like a job in itself. Don't let it get you down. With patience and hard work, you will find the right job.

What Employers Want

Communication: You can communicate clearly and concisely both verbally and in writing. You recognize that communication is a two-way street and are able to listen and interpret effectively, as well.

Leadership: You take the lead and assume the responsibility to get things done. You don't have to be a manager to be a leader; it is a valuable skill in any job.

Problem-Solving: You can analyze and identify a problem and develop effective solutions. You explore new and innovative ideas in addition to tried-and-true solutions.

Confidence: You know and like yourself. You recognize your strengths and know what you can accomplish.

Flexibility: You can "roll with the punches". You adapt easily to new situations and are open to new ideas.

Energy: You are a hard worker. You are willing to put the time and effort into accomplishing your objectives.

Job Interview Tips

• Wear clean, neatly pressed clothes.
• Avoid anything tight-fitting or clingy.
• Select a dress or skirt that is no more than two inches above your knee.
• Select pants that are the appropriate length. Your pants should cover the ankle, but not drag under the heel of your shoes.
• Select a tie that, when knotted, reaches the middle of your belt buckle.
• Clean and polish your shoes. Before your interview, double-check that they are free of mud, debris, and scuffs.
• Avoid too much jewelry and too many accessories.
• Remember that it is usually better to be over- dressed, rather than too casual, when you go to an interview.
• Take a shower or bath.
• Avoid fragrances entirely.
• Brush your hair and teeth.
• Clean your fingernails.
• Avoid alcohol, onions and garlic, both that day and the day before.

Source: hr.dop.wa.gov