Page 21 - Complete Idiot's Guide to The Perfect Resume

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Chapter 1

Mapping Your Job

Hunt

In This Chapter

➤ Developing a career plan that takes you where you want to go
➤ Staying organized and motivated every step of the way
➤ Finding the jobs and circulating your resume

➤ Priming yourself for job interviews and salary negotiations

Job hunting is like going on a trip. Depending on how well you plan, it could go as
smoothly as a drive in a Jaguar, or it could be like a bumpy ride in an old jalopy.
It makes sense that, as you start out, you have mixed feelings about your journey. You’re
probably excited about reaching your destination (your new job), but you’re also concerned
about how long it’s going to take to get there and what problems might arise along the way.
In this chapter, I’m going to help you avoid the bumps by drawing a map of your job
hunt—one that incorporates the easiest and most direct routes possible.

Order! Order!

Without a plan, your job hunt could be as risky as a jungle safari without a guide. I’m not
saying you won’t survive it, but I suggest you at least pack a map!
Seriously, most job hunters have an easier time and get better results if they have an overall
strategy. A solid job-search strategy incorporates these five steps:
1. Develop a career plan.
2. Investigate the job market.
3. Write your resume.
4. Go on job interviews.
5. Negotiate your salary.