If you're looking for a job in today's difficult economy, you must be prepared at any moment for an opportunity to arise. Often an interview or job will go to one of the first people to respond, so you have to be ready at all times.
Listen to my new podcast to hear more about the following tips for being properly prepared:
1. Have every required job search item. This includes such must-haves as a proofread and professionally vetted resume printed out on nice paper and a clean and ironed interview outfit hanging in your closet.
2. Have your virtual image cleaned and polished too. These days, your virtual image can be just as important as your real one. Double check to make sure all of your online profiles are professionally appropriate. Remove those crazy Homecoming photos and status updates about skipping class, and set up a professional profile on LinkedIn that promotes your work-related accomplishments.
3. Practice your pitch. People will judge you based on how you introduce and talk about yourself, so be prepared for the inevitable moment when you'll be asked to "tell me a bit about yourself." Practice introducing yourself in a positive way and get very clear and concise about what kind of job you're looking for and what you have to offer. Being able to introduce yourself is deceptively difficult. Don't wing it!
4. Have business cards. Carrying business cards shows people you meet that you are active in the professional world even if you don’t have a full-time job. All you need on the card are your name, phone number and email address. Bring your business cards everywhere you go -- the gym, Thanksgiving dinner, the nail salon -- you never know when a chance meeting could lead to an opportunity.
5. Set up Google alerts. Finally, prepare your brain by reading a major newspaper every day and empowering yourself with daily information about the companies you want to work for. Set up free Google news alerts with the names of employers and industry topics so you can keep up to date on important news and any potential opportunities.
Listen to this week's podcast for more on this topic!
