PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
9 .
Contact references
Reach out to people who know you well and can speak highly of you as a professional to ask if they will serve as a reference for you . Typically , job applications require at least three to five professional contacts . Current or past supervisors , colleagues or direct reports make the strongest references . Avoid listing personal friends and family members . Provide them with information on the type of opportunities you are seeking . It is also helpful to give them a current resume . If you have individuals who have previously agreed to serve as a reference for you , let them know you are actively looking so they are prepared if they are called for a reference check . Keep your references informed of applications you have submitted , and once your job search has ended , don ’ t forget to thank them for their time .
10 .
Create a spreadsheet
Next , create a spreadsheet to help you record necessary information and meet deadlines . Include information such as : Position name Organization / company
Application deadline Contact person ’ s name Contact information Link to the job posting Required application materials How to apply Date you submitted your application Date you followed up to confirm receipt Date you heard back from the organization Interview date
As you identify positions for which to submit applications , enter all the information for each position into the spreadsheet to help you prepare and accurately apply by the necessary dates . Keep the spreadsheet updated as you continue through the process .
11 .
Schedule time
Once you have systems in place to help you strategically execute your job search , you are now ready to start applying . After you have added a position to your spreadsheet , look at the deadline . Schedule a time to prepare , finalize and submit your application . Applications often take longer than you expect , so set aside at least an hour for each application — maybe longer , depending on the application requirements . You do not want to hastily submit an application . This can cause costly mistakes that will likely keep you from securing an interview .
12 .
Prepare to interview
Once you start applying for positions , it is time to start preparing to interview . This is a critical step in the job search process . Once you have an interview scheduled , it is important to research the organization you are interviewing with , as well as the individuals who will be interviewing you . In addition , practice responses to typical interview questions and prepare questions to ask your interviewers . Remember , interviews are a two-way process .
After you have implemented these tips , you will have a streamlined process to help you stay organized and prepared throughout your job search . This should help alleviate some stress and put you on a strategic path to securing a new position . Now , start preparing and applying . Good luck ! SFM
Erin Wolfram , M . S ., is a career services professional with more than 15 years of experience . She has a specialization in assisting those in the turfgrass management industry , and works with clients to help them recognize their strengths and unique qualities to rise above the competition . She works alongside individuals to make sure they are confident throughout their job search and professional growth , and believes in getting to know clients and their stories to help them reflect their best selves in their application materials and portfolios . She owns and operates Career Advantage and Career Advantage Golf ( http :// careeradvantagegolf . com ), and helps professionals throughout the world . Additionally , Wolfram is an ISSA certified trainer , and runs an online personal training and nutrition consulting business , The Fit Advantage .
Wolfram received a Bachelor of Science in Secondary English Education from Kansas State University , as well as both a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and a Master of Science in Educational Technology from The University of Kansas . She also earned a professional etiquette certificate in 2012 from The Etiquette Institute in St . Louis , Mo . She can be reached at erin @ careeradvantageresumes . com .
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