JOB SEARCH MANUAL

A Free Internet Resource from SunRaye Enterprises

Worksheet #1 - Taking a Job Search Skills Inventory

A. Review the list of job search strategies and techniques listed here. These are critical actions that will contribute significantly to the success of your search for a meaningful and satisfying job.

In each of the following, rate yourself on a scale from least proficient (1) to most proficient (10). Draw a circle around the appropriate number for each skill.

No.	Skill	Your Proficiency
1	Analyzing my skills, interests, and personal qualities to expand my thinking about possible job areas.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
2	Identifying a clearly defined job target.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
3	Honestly looking at barriers that might be in the way of conducting an effective job search.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
4	Contacting at least fifteen people--friends, relatives, associates--to create an effective support system.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
5	Preparing an effective, accomplishments-oriented resume.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
6	Researching potential employers using the library and other resources.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
7	Creating hard-hitting, custom cover letters.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
8	Making numerous phone calls to individuals, associates, and organizations to obtain information about potential employers.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
9	Telephoning specific hiring-level managers and supervisors to set up interview appointments.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
10	Preparing for interviews by conducting research and putting together an effective presentation.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11	Practicing interviews before they take place.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
12	Making follow-up phone calls or writing thank you letters to everyone whom I have contacted regarding my job search.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
13	Actively seeking feedback on how I communicate.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
14	Setting and meeting specific deadlines for accomplishing goals.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
15	Negotiating for my desired salary and benefits.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
16	Evaluating job offers to be sure that they meet my desired level of work satisfaction.	1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

The gaps between where you are today and where you would like to be as a high-performing, active, effective job seeker clearly show which areas need your closest attention.

B. Identifying Barriers: decide how each item applies to you and put a check mark in the appropriate column.

No.	Barrier	Doesn't Apply	Somewhat Applies	Definitely Applies
1	I don't have enough experience.
2	I'm too young.
3	I'm too old.
4	Unemployment is increasing.
5	I'm overqualified.
6	They wouldn't hire a ______________ (e.g. woman, native, minority, etc.)
7	There are no jobs.
8	They can't make up their minds.
9	My skills are obsolete.
10	I don't know how to operate a computer.
11	It's impossible to get interviews.
12	There are too many applicants chasing each job.
13	All jobs are in the suburbs.
14	All jobs are in the city.
15	I don't have the right education.
16	I have too much education.
17	They really don't want to hire anyone.
18	The economy is weak.
19	Add more:
20	.
21
22
23
24	.
25	.

Print the Worksheet Summary and fill in the table for Activity One.

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