copies of your CVs: You will need different versions of your CV for different applications – have both printed and electronic versions available. Keep a master copy of each so you can review for future applications. You may also want a copy handy for review when making phone calls.
2.Certificates, letters of recognition, etc.: You may need to let a future employer see your certificates and diplomas. You may also want to show letters of recognition from customers, so get them all ready now. Action: Find these now and get them in a display wallet so you can take them along to interview to support what you say.
3.Applications and cover letters: Each time you apply for a job, keep all the information together – the advert, additional information, a copy of the application form, CV version, etc. In addition to storing your letters and applications on your computer, have printed copies easily accessible. Action: Have some plastic wallets ready to file away your different applications.
4.Speculative approaches to organisations, consultancies and agencies: Detailed information of each company, letters sent, and next steps to take. Action: Use the forms to keep track of progress.
5.Diary or personal organiser: To keep track of your appointments. Action: Make sure you have a great method of keeping track, on paper or online, and one that’s easy for you to keep updated; there’s a form for this too!
6.Stationery: Not photocopying paper, but good quality 100 gsm paper with matching envelopes. Action: Buy some decent stationery soon. Having postage stamps on hand would also help.
7.To-do list: So you are clear on daily and weekly tasks. Action: Start a ‘to do’ list and review it each day; a copy is in the online form library.
8.Contact list: Details of whom you contacted, the reason for the contact and any follow-up action. Action: Get started on your contact list today.
Forms needed for an effective, well-planned job search
Having worked with hundreds of clients, I know the forms that will help you in your job search. Each is referred to in the relevant chapter and you can access them all from the website. They include:
1.Plan of action
2.Daily activity log
3.Daily plan
4.Daily tasks
5.Networking record sheet
6.Personal contacts action
7.Weekly targets
8.Weekly summary of job search
9.Weekly review
10.Response to job ads form
11.Response to adverts record sheet
12.Phone message form
13.Job advert summary
14.Direct approach follow up
15. Interview self debrief
Action: Download these now and set up a folder on your computer to keep these master copies.
Job Search: daily activity log
•List the objectives for the start of each day and then make a note of how you use your time. A review will ensure you are making good use of time and not getting bogged down or distracted!
•Try to just do one thing at a time and follow it through.
•It can be most productive to do telephone calls in a block, perhaps calling at 10–11am or 2–3pm.
•As you plan your day, make sure to leave some time for the unexpected.
•Your activity log helps you recall what you have done, whom you have contacted, and makes sure you follow through on each activity.
•List every activity you do alongside your comments on how well you are doing.
•Record information about the people you meet. Make sure you have their contact details correct. You may need to follow up on what they agree to do.
•Note names of any secretaries or assistants you speak with – they can be flattered that you remember their name.
Don’t forget to include lunch breaks and relaxation.
Example of a daily activity log:
13th February
I collected a national paper to scan for any jobs. I put a cross through those that were clearly unsuitable and used my highlighter to ring any that would be of interest.
Visit to library to read Financial Times to keep up on industry changes.
Chatted to another job hunter and went for a coffee. We swapped cards and will meet in the library next week to pass on any useful information. Glad I have her email details.
Saw that XXX services are expanding. They may have some upcoming vacancies in my area of expertise, I’ve noted to follow up.
Spent all afternoon on my application form to ABC Ltd, it was a complicated form so I was glad I had photocopied it yesterday so I could use it to create a draft copy.
Looked at my letter and tweaked it so I could send it to XXX. I rang first to find out who was going to be the most appropriate person to send it to.
Received a phone call from Colin Pemberton (01684 XXXXXX). He is a friend of Andrew Wilson and said there may be something coming up and he would like to meet. We have arranged to meet at the Old Swan, Cirencester at 11.45 this Friday. Forgot to ask for some info on the company but have noted to do an Internet search.
Made a note to follow up on the 10 letters I sent out last week, this will be my first task of the morning.
Daily review
Complete each day with a review
•What did I do today?
•What was helpful?
•What hindered?
•What one action can I take tomorrow to make a big difference to help me reach my objective of a new job?
References
Who to choose?
You will want to choose people who know you. Often you are asked for both work and personal referees. It’s a good idea not to choose relatives because they don’t carry much authority. Ideally, choose people who are professionals with a good reputation. Former employers carry the most weight, also key suppliers and customers who can vouch for the work you do. Referees are sometimes phoned and if they can clearly give examples of your achievements, it will definitely improve your chances.
Get
