Steps in the process of finding a JOB

So, you're a recent graduate? Looking for work? You and thousands of others. What can you offer that they can't? Well, hopefully you know that or will learn as you search. Your job search is a project in itself, with various stages.

Here are some tips to get you to your goal of a great first job.

1. Skill Building
Practice your writing skills, Stay updated, Take refresher courses, Start a blog, Do some volunteer work, Learn networking skills

2. What tools do you need?
Computer, Internet access, Briefcase or portfolio, Cell phone

3. Resume
Don't lie on your resume, Be relevant, Customize your resume, Follow standard format, Make it easy to read, Be brief, Use the right terminology, Promote yourself, Have references ready, Indicate your interests, Stick to the file format, Use a cover letter, Proofread, Print quality.

4. Finding a Job and Interview Preparation
Ask friends and family, Ask in social settings, Ask on campus, Check with former classmates, Try networking, Use a job search engine, Attend career fairs, Check newspapers, Be selective, Practice being interviewed, Beef up your skills, Know your strengths, Research potential employers, Prepare a list of questions, Don't overreach, Be patient, Look elsewhere.

5. Offbeat and Appearance - General tips about preparing when you've already secured an interview.
Practice, Have your clothes ready (Reduce your stress), Dress professionally, Makeover, Use your judgement, Groom yourself, Get enough sleep

6. Pre-Interview - On the day of your interview -> prepare yourself.

Be prepared, Know why, Arrive early, Be friendly, Don't smoke, Use the restroom beforehand, Learn your interviewer's name, Turn off your cell phone

7. The Interview - a lot of what gains you points in an interview is your behavior.
They already have your resume. They want to know about you.

Interview Opener
Wait for the handshake, Keep standing till you receive a direction, Make a good first impression and maintain it.

8. Interview DOs
Maintain eye contact, Be succinct, Nod your head, Ask for clarification, Ask questions, Be flexible, Ask about your role, Ask about your team, Ask about the last person, Ask about future opportunities

9. Interview DON'Ts
Don't ask about salary benefits first, Don't fidget, Don't mumble, Don't be intimidated, Don't lie in the interview, Don't show off or overact, Don't hit on your interviewer, Don't complain about someone, Don't seem needy

10. Interview Other
Remember what it's about, Be prepared to be tested.

11. Closer and Post Interview
Know your availability, Be flexible on salary, Ask for the job, Say thank you, Be patient, Follow up on each interview, Keep an interview log, Keep learning.

Hope it was useful :)
Good luck and lot of confidence in your process of finding a good job.

Gabriela