| Create a support system for yourself | | | | what you can compromise on and what you |
| emotionally and for your job search. Identify | | | | won't. |
| allies that you can count on. Know some will | | | | |
| have strengths in one area, but weaknesses in | | | | Always have a 'Plan B'. The best time to |
| another. Recognize different people will play | | | | accelerate your job search is when you've |
| different roles in your job search. | | | | just had the greatest interview of your life. |
| | | | You're feeling confident, enthusiastic and |
| Maintain a positive attitude. Inevitably, | | | | competent. This is the time to expand your |
| negative feelings can sabotage your job | | | | networking, follow-up on contacts and |
| search. If you have anger about your former | | | | schedule new interviews. Remember, even the |
| employer, work through it. Negative emotions | | | | most promising prospect can backfire. |
| will undermine your best efforts. Keep | | | | |
| yourself renewed and enthusiastic throughout | | | | Take care of yourself physically, emotionally |
| the process. | | | | and spiritually. Exercise and eating right |
| | | | can't go wrong-they are proven to enhance |
| Network. The number one way of getting a job | | | | quality of life. Celebrate your creativity |
| is through networking. Even if you are | | | | and find ways to engage your mind, body and |
| involved in the computer industry, less than | | | | spirit. |
| 10% of jobs are obtained through the | | | | |
| Internet. Devote energy to making real, | | | | Research companies before the interview. Find |
| valuable connections with people. | | | | out about the company through your local |
| | | | library and Internet. Request an annual |
| Develop a schedule and goals. Getting a job | | | | financial report and promotional information |
| is of course the ultimate goal, but it is | | | | from the company. Ninety percent of the other |
| impossible to predict when you will achieve | | | | job seekers don't do their homework, be the |
| it. Develop daily and weekly schedules of job | | | | one that stands out. |
| search activities you can control. For | | | | |
| example, send out 10 resumes, research 5 | | | | Know what you have to offer. Identify your |
| companies and call 10 people in your network. | | | | relevant skills and accomplishments. Know the |
| This will keep you on track, and focused. | | | | unique contributions you offered former |
| | | | employers. Be able to articulate your |
| Know what you want. People need to work for | | | | strengths on your resume and in the |
| money and benefits. But remember other | | | | interview. |
| components are necessary for you to feel | | | | |
| satisfied in the workplace. Know what | | | | Think outside the box during your job search. |
| motivates and satisfies you. Know which | | | | Look for unexpected opportunities, explore |
| environment you're most productive in. Know | | | | untapped skills and interests. |