This guide is part of our January Job Goals series. Share this Job Goal on Facebook or Pinterest (hey, a little accountability is always a good thing!), then share your progress in the comments section!
This is the month.
You've been thinking about looking for a new job for a while, but now's the time to turn that idea into reality.
And we're here to help! In addition to all of the Job Search Month goodness we have coming your way in January, we've put together a step-by-step guide that'll help you kick-start your hunt. Each week of the month, focus on these four activities, and you'll be in a great place to land the job of your dreams.
Week 1: Research the Right Jobs and Companies
Before you even start digging into job listings, use some time this week to find companies that truly interest you and seem like a perfect fit for your personality, passions, and skills. Maybe you’re drawn to tech startups with a laid-back culture, or maybe you’d prefer a more structured corporate role at a company that focuses on mentorship and professional development.
Whatever your preference, draw up a list of company names and types of roles that strike your interest. When you do start applying, this will help keep you laser focused (are you really interested in this company and position, or are you just anxious to get some kind of job?) and actually get you excited (yes, it’s possible!) about landing a gig at one of your dream companies.
Read More: Find Inspiring Companies at The Muse
Week 2: Take Our Job Search Boot Camp
From resumes and cover letters to networking and applying for jobs, we know getting started on your job hunt can be a daunting process. So, we've made it easier by breaking it down into a seven-day program: our free "Kick Start Your Job Search" email class.
With assigned reading and homework each day (don't groan—it's easy, and you don't have to turn it in), you'll have your resume, LinkedIn profile, and job search plan totally ready to go by the end of this week. This will be the most intense week of the month, but we promise, it'll be insanely helpful.
Read More: Kick Start Your Job Search Class
Week 3: Get Your Interview Basics Ready to Go
Once you start applying for jobs (and landing interviews, obviously), you'll need to have a few key things prepared.
First up? Professional interview attire. Brush up on what to wear with our guys' and gals' guides, then make sure you have something in your closet that could work for the types of jobs to which you'll be applying.
Next, depending on what field you’re in, you’ll probably want to show work samples at interviews—think a marketing campaign that you worked on, a financial model you built, or a speech you wrote for your boss. So, spend some time going through your work files (both hard and soft copies) and saving them into an organized place so they're ready to go. Better yet, compile them into a professional portfolio.
By taking this week to think ahead about what you'll need, you'll be totally ready once you start interviewing. On that note:
Week 4: Get Ready to Ace Those Interviews
In this final week, get ready for those interviews that you're bound to land. Our seven-day class will walk you through how to research companies before the big day, make an awesome first impression with the hiring committee, and wow them with well-thought-out answers to even the toughest questions.
This step might feel a little premature, but believe us: When you feel confident that you can knock the interview out of the park, you'll be much more excited about applying for your dream job. Now, go forth and apply!
Read More: Ace Any Job Interview Class
How are you doing with your January Job Goal? Share your progress in the comments section!