The Job Search Checklist: What to Do Before You Start Applying

The process of finding a new job can be exciting, overwhelming, and even daunting all at once. Whether you’re aiming for a career change, seeking advancement, or re-entering the workforce, a strategic approach to your job search can make a world of difference. Before you hit the "apply" button on every job listing that catches your eye, it’s essential to take a step back and set yourself up for success.

This blog will walk you through the crucial steps to take before diving into the job application process. By preparing ahead of time, you’ll position yourself to not only find the right job but to secure it with confidence.

1. Clarify Your Career Goals and Priorities

Before you start applying, take time to reflect on what you want out of your next role. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of applying for multiple positions, but knowing your goals and what you’re looking for in a job will help you target your efforts and prevent frustration down the line.

Start by asking yourself some key questions:

• What are my career goals? Do you want to advance in your current field, switch industries, or take on a leadership role?

• What type of work environment suits me? Are you looking for a collaborative team, or do you thrive in a more independent, remote setting?

• What values are important to me? Consider the company's culture, diversity, work-life balance, and growth opportunities.

• What are my non-negotiables? These could include salary expectations, location, flexibility, or job security.

  
  

Having a clear understanding of what you want from your next role will help guide your search. Without these goals in mind, you risk applying to jobs that don’t align with your ambitions, leading to job dissatisfaction and wasted time.

2. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

One of the first things you should do before applying for jobs is to ensure your resume and LinkedIn profile are up to date. These are your primary tools for showcasing your experience and skills to potential employers. But it’s not just about updating your job history—it's about presenting yourself in the best light possible.

Resume Tips:

• Highlight relevant skills and achievements: Tailor your resume to the types of roles you’re targeting. Focus on quantifiable results and accomplishments rather than just listing job duties.

• Use a clean, professional layout: A cluttered or overly complicated design can distract from your experience. Stick to a simple, easy-to-read format with consistent fonts and headings.

• Include keywords: Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter resumes. Ensure that your resume includes relevant keywords from the job descriptions you’re targeting.

  
  

LinkedIn Tips:

• Ensure your headline is clear and specific: Instead of using generic titles like "Experienced Professional," specify your role and area of expertise (e.g., “Marketing Manager | Digital Strategy & SEO Expert”).

• Showcase your accomplishments: LinkedIn allows for a more personal touch. Use your summary and experience sections to highlight your key achievements and the value you bring.

• Get endorsements and recommendations: A well-rounded LinkedIn profile includes endorsements from colleagues and managers. These add credibility to your skills and experience.

  
  

Remember, both your resume and LinkedIn profile are living documents that should evolve with your career. Regularly review and adjust them as you gain new skills and experiences.

3. Research Companies and Industries

Knowing which companies or industries you’re interested in is a fundamental part of your job search. It’s not enough to apply to jobs that pop up on your feed; you should also be proactive in targeting specific companies or sectors where you feel you’d thrive.

Company Research:

• Explore company culture: Use LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and other platforms to gain insight into a company’s work environment, values, and employee satisfaction.

• Look for growth opportunities: Research companies that are expanding, launching new products, or involved in exciting projects. These organisations are often looking for fresh talent and can provide excellent career growth.

• Understand their mission: Aligning with a company’s mission and values can make a big difference in your job satisfaction. Research the company’s long-term goals and their commitment to things like sustainability, diversity, or innovation.

  
  

Industry Research:

• Keep up with trends: Understand the key trends, challenges, and opportunities within your industry. This knowledge will help you target roles that align with your future aspirations.

• Identify in-demand skills: Stay informed about the skills that are becoming increasingly important in your field, whether that’s data analysis, AI, or leadership in remote teams. Upskilling in these areas can increase your employability.

  
  

By researching the companies and industries you’re interested in, you can apply with a clearer understanding of what you’re seeking and tailor your approach accordingly.

4. Build and Refine Your Personal Brand

In today’s digital world, having a strong personal brand is essential. Employers often look up candidates online, and a well-curated online presence can make a significant difference in how you’re perceived.

Personal Branding Tips:

• Consistent online presence: Ensure your LinkedIn profile, personal website, and social media accounts (where applicable) all align with your professional persona. Keep them up to date and free of any content that may seem unprofessional.

• Create a personal website or portfolio: If applicable, showcase your work in a visual format. Whether you’re a designer, writer, or marketing professional, having a portfolio can set you apart from other candidates.

• Engage with industry discussions: Share relevant articles, comment on posts, or participate in LinkedIn groups to showcase your expertise and stay visible in your industry.

  
  

A strong personal brand can help you stand out from other applicants, especially when recruiters are reviewing dozens of profiles.

5. Assess Your Skills and Consider Upskilling

Even if you have years of experience in your field, there’s always room for growth. Before you begin applying for jobs, assess whether you have the necessary skills to succeed in your desired role.

Skills Assessment:

• Evaluate your strengths and weaknesses: Take stock of the skills you currently possess and identify any gaps that may prevent you from landing your ideal job.

• Research job requirements: Review job descriptions for the roles you’re interested in to ensure you meet the qualifications. If certain skills are mentioned frequently and you’re lacking them, consider taking an online course to upskill.

  
  

Upskilling Resources:

• Online platforms: Websites like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Udemy offer a wide range of courses, from technical skills to leadership development.

• Industry certifications: Depending on your field, earning certifications can significantly boost your job prospects. For example, a project manager might benefit from a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification, while a marketer might consider Google Analytics certification.

• Attend workshops and webinars: These can provide both learning opportunities and valuable networking.

  
  

Investing in your skills not only makes you a more competitive candidate but also increases your confidence when applying for jobs.

6. Prepare for the Job Interview Process

The application process doesn’t stop once you submit your resume. Be prepared for the interview stage, which is where you can really make an impression.

Interview Preparation:

• Research common interview questions: Be ready to answer questions about your strengths, weaknesses, achievements, and challenges. Practice articulating your experiences with clear examples.

• Know your resume inside and out: Be prepared to discuss everything on your resume, from your previous roles to the skills you’ve acquired.

• Prepare your questions: When it’s your turn to ask questions, show that you’ve done your research on the company. Ask about the company culture, team dynamics, and opportunities for growth.

  
  

Having this preparation in place will allow you to feel confident and composed when you land that all-important interview.

7. Set Realistic Expectations

Finally, it’s important to set realistic expectations for your job search. Finding the right job takes time, and rejection is a natural part of the process. Set yourself a schedule to keep track of your applications, and make sure you’re applying consistently, but don’t be discouraged by setbacks.

Be patient, stay organised, and take time to rest. Job searching can be a marathon, not a sprint, so it’s essential to maintain a healthy work-life balance during this period.

Conclusion

The job search process is more than just submitting applications—it’s about setting yourself up for success. By clarifying your career goals, updating your resume and LinkedIn profile, researching companies, and upskilling where necessary, you’ll be better prepared to find the right job. Take the time to prepare thoroughly, and when you’re ready to apply, you’ll be much more confident in your chances of securing the position you’ve worked so hard to find.

Remember, a little preparation goes a long way. By following this checklist, you’re not just applying for jobs—you’re setting the foundation for a fulfilling and successful career.

If you need assistance creating an impactful resume and cover letter, contact Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, at 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com