Job Search Checklist

Before you begin searching for work it is important that you plan your job search.

Looking for a job is a full time job.

There are techniques that can shorten the time it takes and also improve your chances for success.

The following check list is meant to provide you with information regarding effective job searching in Canada, and help you determine where you need assistance or where you can improve. Your answers to the following questions may provide you with some important clues.

Answer each question "yes" or "no."

1. Can you clearly state your career goals?
2. Can you describe your greatest strengths?
3. Can you describe specific work activities you do well?
4. Can you list your professional accomplishments?
5. Are you able to describe your work experience by looking at situations you experienced, the tasks and actions you took within those situations, the results of the actions you took and what skills you gained from it all?
6. Do you know what the salary range is for the position you are seeking?
7. Do you know what employers are doing the work you have experience in?
8. Can you name at least 5 potential employers that might be interested in you?
9. Do you look for job openings in places other than the newspaper and the internet?
10. Do you know what a targeted resume is?
11. Have you prepared a targeted resume that focuses on your achievements, the results of your work and clearly explains to an employer what you can do for them?
12. Have you asked for any feedback on your resume before sending it out?
13. Are you familiar with the different questions you could be asked in an interview?
14. Have you practiced, and practiced again, your answers to interview questions?
15. Do you know the English terminology used in your profession?
16. Do you know if your occupation has licensing requirements?
17. Are you aware of existing associations or groups for your profession?
18. Do you know what resources are available to you that can assist you with all of the above?

If you answered "no" to any of the above questions you are not ready to do an effective job search in Canada. What do you think you can do in order to make your job search work for you? Where do you want to begin?

Laurie