The Don'ts:

Don't assume this job search will be just like the last job search. It may be harder or easier, but chances are it will be different. The methods used to secure the last position may not be the methods that succeed in securing the next. Use all the avenues available to you in this job search.

Don't set your sights on the one perfect potential offer and stop all other activities and search efforts. No job opportunity is a guarantee until the job has been offered and accepted. Keep looking, keep submitting resumes, keep applying, and keep interviewing for other positions, even when you believe, in your heart of hearts, that an offer is in the air.

Don't focus all your energy and extra time on your job search. Establish a set number of hours per day or week that you will devote to securing a new position and use any extra time available to: improve yourself (take a course, read, learn a new skill), catch up with friends and family, catch up on activities or projects you haven't had time to enjoy or complete, volunteer to a cause that means something to you, meditate and relax, help someone else, and have some fun. Even though a job search can be a stressful and frustrating process, you've been given an opportunity (particularly if you're temporarily unemployed) to take stock and breathe. Creating balance in your job search will make you more productive and enthusiastic, and will increase your chances for success. Besides, you ought to enjoy this time, because once you've secured a new position it may be a while before you have such freedom again.

Don't let fear of the unknown overwhelm you. Rather, think of all the possibilities, envision yourself doing what you want to do and being where you want to be. Focus your energies on the positive, see it in your mind, believe it will happen, and make it happen.

Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Don't be afraid to offer help. Your interviewer and potential employer is looking for solutions. Go in as a positive problem solver and you will increase the perception of your hiring value tenfold.

Don't let negative experiences or feelings from past events or positions cloud, hinder or damage your ability or opportunity to secure a new position. Rethink these situations and find the positives. Focus on these positives and what you have gained or learned from the experience and use this new level of understanding to your advantage. Speaking negatively about past employers, coworkers, or employment situations acts as a mirror and reflects back poorly on the candidate. Instead, think of how you have overcome this negative situation and what positive attributes you now bring to the new job.

The Dos:

Do have your resume reviewed for strengths and weaknesses. Talk to the people who are currently responsible for hiring in the field, industry or position you want to secure, regardless of whether a position opening currently exists. Have these individuals review your resume. Have them offer you suggestions on areas in need of definition, improvement, or greater experience. Allow them to guide you in ways you can improve your opportunities, and follow through on their suggestions. If willing, have them review a second version of your improved document.

Do network with professionals in your industry of choice. Talk to the people currently doing the type of work you want to secure and learn from them. Join professional associations. Participate in professional events. Do offer to mentor other individuals when given the opportunity.

Do establish goals, but don't set your ultimate goal as your immediate goal. Envision your ultimate goal and determine what steps are necessary and what shorter term goals must be met, first, in order to reach the ultimate goal. Establish flexible time frames in which to meet these smaller goals and celebrate your success upon reaching each, before moving to the next goal.

Do use every avenue available to get your resume and information out to your targeted market. This includes applying to jobs posted in Internet databases, career-related Web sites, newspaper ads, and professional publications. Contact recruiters (but only those who are employer-paid). Contact college placement professionals and representatives from your alumni college. Search the Internet, phone book, library reference guides, and professional publications for information on companies of interest, and contact them (after you've done your homework and regardless of whether or not a job position is being advertised or made known). Attend career fairs and industry-related events (and have your resume ready for distribution at these events). Attend corporate open houses. Tell everyone you know that you are in the market and what you can do. Volunteer your services to organizations in need.

Do prepare yourself for interview situations by practicing your public speaking and interviewing skills, preparing appropriate answers to difficult questions, focusing on what value and benefit your skills and experiences can contribute to the companies you're currently targeting, and how you are presenting yourself to others in both mannerisms and dress. Do mock interviews, tape your responses, and have these mock interviews critiqued by someone you respect and trust. Work on problem areas until your answers and responses to these situations are comfortable, professional and effective.

Do thank everyone who has helped you in this job search, and follow up on all job interviews with notes of appreciation, it can be the deciding factor between two equally qualified candidates. Don't assume that everyone follows up an interview with a note, because very few candidates actually do. By showing your appreciation to those who have helped you in your job search, you'll build your network and keep allegiances strong.

Do continue managing your career and building up your network, even after you secure the perfect job. Update your resume periodically, while the information is current and fresh in your mind. Record your achievements and recognize how your efforts have made a difference and benefited those who employ you. Career management is an ongoing process.

Do offer to help others in similar situations and become a mentor.

Good luck in your job search! Sue Campbell, 1st-Writer.com - over 15 years experience helping clients achieve their career and business goals. Feel free to e-mail me or complete a feedback with any questions you may have. I'll be glad to help!

Sue Campbell
Career Specialist
1st-writer
www.1st-writer.com