The 6 Stages Of The Job Search

At some point, everyone has to hustle through the stages of the job search. It can be a week long simple process or a year long nightmare. Everyone has a different job search experience.

The job search is a process that requires everyone to go through all of the stages of the job search. Sometimes the process goes smoothly. Other times it’s a journey to remember. Sometimes you have to start over. The key is to stay focus, determined, and positive.

Are you in the middle of a job search? Which stage of the job search are you currently in?

1. Make A Plan – Knowing how you plan to attack the job search is important. It’s important to know what you want to do, how you plan to do it, what experience you need to get there, who you know that can help, and where you’re going to start. Formulate your plan so you meet your  professional goals.
2. Follow Any Leads – Leads are a great place to start. Most leads will come from your network. It’s important to spend time building and maintaining your network. Life is all about who you know and who you know will help you get where you want to go – including finding jobs.
3. Start The Search – Even if your network gives you a lead, you’ll still have to do a bit of leg work. This requires researching the position, learning about the employer, and searching through job listings. Next, it’s time to make a move.
4. Apply – No one can get a job if they don’t apply. During the application process, you need to follow the rules and instructions that are laid out. You’ll need to update and customize your resume and cover letter. It’s time to line up your references and edit your web presence. Then finally it’s time to send in your official application.
5. Interview – It can be a nerve-wracking waiting game before you get the call about an interview. If you make it this far, you’re already a stand out applicant. Now you need to convince the recruiter that you’re the right person for the job. After you get an interview time, it’s time to do a bit of additional research. Explore the company’s website, job description, benefits, lifestyle, reputation, and industry. Line up a handful of questions that you can ask the interviewer. Brush up on common (and odd) interview questions. Be prepared for your first in-person meeting. The interview is typically a make or break moment.
6. Accept or Repeat – After the interview, it’s time for another fingernail-biting waiting period. Finally you’ll get an email or phone call that either tells you if you got the job or you’ll have to start the job search over. If you get the job offer, it’s time to ask the hard question – “Is this the right job and company for me?” Consider the big picture. If you don’t get selected for the position, it’s time to start back at stage one.

Following these stages of the job search is a tedious task. It’s okay to have multiple job searches going on at the same time. If you do, be sure you’re an organized person. Don’t miss any deadlines or details. No matter what happens in your job search, stay positive. A positive attitude can and will help you find a job.

No matter where you are in the stages of the job search, JobMonkey is a great resource for you. Take advantage of our Industry Guides, Job Board, Countless Advice Pages, and more. We’re here to help because we want to make the stages of the job search go as smoothly as possible. Good luck!