At the beginning of your job search you need to get into a positive frame of mind: with determination and a good understanding of how to manage a professional job search you will succeed.
But sometimes it is difficult to know how your job search should be conducted. Here are some key steps to help you on your way:
Consider setting up a dedicated email address for your job search.
This way you know that every email coming into that address is related to your job search and there will be no chance of mixing up personal and business emails. You could even get a cheap mobile dedicated to your search. Recruiters often call for impromptu telephone interviews and this way, when you answer, you will know you need to be professional.
Tailor your CV.
Don't send off the same old CV for every job. Take the time to customise your CV; read the job advertisement or specification carefully, pick out the essential skills and experience required, and make sure your CV demonstrates you really do have the required experience. Do that for every job application and you will see a dramatic improvement in the number of times you get shortlisted for interview.
Proof read.
Check your CV and application letter for typos or grammatical errors. With so many CVs to review, many recruiters say that applications with mistakes just go straight in the bin. Use your spell checker and get a friend or family member to take a look at it for you. Most recruiters and employers will assume that if your CV is written carelessly then that attitude will carry over into your work.
Provide recent example of your achievements.
Ensure these closely match the requirements of the job. A lot of CVs simply list duties and responsibilities but don't spell out the value provided to the employer. Use the action and result model to add impact. For example, "I led a team of 20 staff that hit their sales targets every quarter" is more impressive than simply, "I led a team of 20 staff". Or, "I introduced a new incentive scheme" is less informative than, "I introduced a new incentive scheme that reduced staff turnover by 20%."