Job search checklist

While more and more applications are completed online and ask for lots of detailed information, a crisp, concise résumé that is inviting for the reviewer to assess is essential to have ready before you start applying. Aim for a one-page resume that is easy for the reader to quickly grasp your background. Open with a 1-2 sentence summary statement, then list your job history with 3-4 bullets outlining the most important day-to-day job duties. Educational background follows unless you have very specific degrees or certifications that are a requirement of the position. 

An internet search will unearth lots of sites that offer to build a résumé for you for a fee. Try to do it yourself so that you can update as needed. Here are a couple of web builder sites that are very generous with template examples - use them for inspiration!

ResumeHelp

LiveCareer

Concerned about your work history and how to reflect those challenges on your résumé? Here are some ideas for résumé challenges:

• Several short-term jobs. For similar jobs (e.g., receptionist) that have duty commonality, consider organizing by title rather than employer. List recent and longer-term employers then use 3-4 bullets to provide a good summary that encompasses all. If the short-term jobs are dissimilar, lead with a strong list of skills and accomplishments and then home your list of employers to those that best highlight your work history. 

• Employment gaps. Note — but do not linger on — employment gaps in your opening summary: “Energetic and enthusiastic team player seeking a return to the workforce…” 

• Change in career. A powerful opening summary statement that can connect your work history with the job posting is essential, along with a strong list of skills that demonstrate how your work history is transferable to a new employment opportunity.

A skills-based résumé works particularly well for each of the challenges above. Instead of focusing on specific jobs, this résumé instead highlights the skills and accomplishments you’ve achieved from past work (paid or not). Here’s an article on How to Write a Skills-Based Resume from Indeed. ResumeHelp and LiveCareer have many examples, too.

Cover letters should be included with every resume. While a résumé describes your past employment and accomplishments, the cover letter ties your skills and interests to the specific job posting. Think of the cover letter as a speed date that shows the reviewer that you are the PERFECT person for a second date — the interview. The goal of a cover letter is to specifically address how you can excel at the top position requirements that are outlined in the posting. 

It’s natural to want to cover all bases in the cover letter. But — like the résumé — if it’s too lengthy, the reviewer gets bogged down. Consider length and density; 3-4 paragraphs with 3-4 sentences each is about right. Read the job posting carefully and determine the top 3 requirements; these will be the foundation of your cover letter. When addressing each, use words from the job posting to describe your ability to achieve each. 

Here’s an article on how to format a cover letter.

Looking for a job has changed dramatically over the past decade and continues to evolve. Increasingly, even small businesses use national job sites to post openings. And HR software often has applicant tracking systems that use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen applications before a human sees them. Having a résumé that screens well is critical!

If you’re looking for employment in Michigan, consider making the Michigan Career Portal your first stop. This non-for-profit site, developed in collaboration between the State of Michigan and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, is an AI-driven site that offers many resources to prepare for and execute your job search. Under resources, use “Free Resume Check” to see how your résumé fares with applicant tracking systems. (Tip: You can revise your résumé multiple times and upload again to re-test. No need to pay to have someone make the changes for you!)

There are lots of national (and international) job search sites. Check out the Best Job Search Sites to learn more.

Even with national job search sites, looking locally is always important.

Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or a seasoned employee, the thought of an interview can be intimidating. Preparation is the key, whether it’s an initial phone screening or  a final interview. Here are some resources to check out to help you prepare.

How to Prepare for an Interview

Ten Common Questions 

Five Steps to a Successful Interview

If the thought of interviewing makes your palms sweat, rehearse! A trusted friend or colleague can be a great source to practice your answers and gain confidence. If you’re uncomfortable on camera (many employers use video calls for interviews), practice that, too. 

And remember. . .the interview is as important for you to assess the employer as it is for the employer to assess you. Are you a good fit with their culture, schedule, management style, and logistics?

• Clarify and solidify your employment goals.

• Update your résumé and cover letter templates.

• Update/create your online profile and presence.

• Search for hiring companies.

• Use job boards and job sites.

• Work your network.

• Polish your interview skills.

• Apply!

Download this step-by-step checklist to guide you through the job search process.