In the last four articles in this series, we covered the four basic steps to finding employment. Defining, prospecting, applying and interviewing. In this final article, we giving you 7 quality tips which will help you cut valuable time off each step and therefore the entire job hunt process.

1. Don't wait till you start looking for a job, before you start looking.

Be up to date with your industry and the conditions of your employment environment all the time. Make this part of your job description in every job you hold. It could save you weeks when it comes time to find a job.

2. Keep your resume up to date

Find a template or layout that you are comfortable with and maintain it. Update it twice a year at least. It will save you the mad scramble to put it together and possibly a lost opportunity because you were unprepared.

3. Network Network Network.

Keep in touch with all your contacts in the industry. This includes workmates, employers, contacts at employment agencies, contacts in similar companies etc. You never know what other people will be doing tomorrow, or what opportunities they may have for you.

4. Accept interviews even if you are not interested in the opportunity, or not looking for a job.

Interviewing is a very specific skill. Keep that skill honed. Keep practising the skill. You don't want to lose "perfect"
opportunies because it is your first interview in 5 years and you need to get your answers back up to scratch. Remember you do not have to accept the job.

5. Keep a diary of your experiences.

Note what you did well with each job opportunity. What worked, what didn't, improvements you could make, elements you can get rid of. Then, when you next go through an employment opportunity situation, revisit your notes, duplicate the good things and improve the bad things. Recognise the process as having a learning curve, and learn.

6. If you do not have a job and need one, make job hunting your full time job.

Get out of bed at the same time you would if you were working in your given field. This will put your time clock in sync with your interviewers. Spend the same hours working on your job huntas you would in the job. Be disciplined.

7. Keep focused

Know what you are looking for and have a clear plan for achieving your goal. Do not accept roles that are different
to your goals at the start of your job hunt. This could cost you years in your career.
 

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