Printout | Master Checklist Of Things You MUST Do On Your Job Search

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Printout | Master Checklist Of Things You MUST Do On Your Job Search

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📖Overview

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Stage 1: Evaluating Yourself

Clarify Your Interests

Skills Assessment

Personality Assessment

Stage 2: Establish Your Career Objectives

Work-life Balance

Set Specific Goals

Set Strategic Goals

Identify Trends

Stage 3: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare Your Resume Templates

Prepare a Cover Letter Template

Optional: Prepare Your References Sheet

Optional: Prepare Your Certificates

Optional: Optimize Your Online Presence

Optional: Showcase Your Projects

Stage 4: Prepare a List of Target Companies

Identify Target Companies

Optional: Identify Industries

Stage 5: Apply For Jobs

Apply Online

Optional: Career Fairs

Optional: Reach Out To Recruiters

Optional: Industry Events

Optional: Networking

Optional: Cold Calls

Stage 6: Interview Prep

Research the Company & Role

Practice STAR Behavioral Interview Questions

Optional: Practice Technical Questions

Stage 7: Right Before the Interview

15 Minute Refresher

Dress & Groom for Success

Prepare A To-Go Pile

Stage 8: During The Interview

Strong Positive Impression

Be Positive & Positive Body Language

Stay Professional

Answer in STAR Format

At The End: Ask Smart Questions

Stage 9: After the Interview

Send Personalized Thank You/Follow Up Emails

Optional: Self Reflect On Your Interview

Optional: Ask For Feedback

Stage 10: The Offer

Optional: Negotiate Your Offer

Stage 11: New On-The-Job Training

Make Introductions and Build Relationships

Ask For Written Training

Seek Feedback and Guidance

Know the Roles Within Your Organization

Optional: Identify Factions and Leaders

❓Stage 1: Evaluating Yourself

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Clarify Your Interests

Why Is This Important?

Our work often takes up significant portions of our lives, so finding meaning and fulfillment in what we do is crucial. Knowing your interests ensures that you pursue a career that resonates with your values, passion and overall purpose, leading to greater personal fulfillment.

Examples:

I am passionate about sales so I will focus my job search on sales positions across various industries. Here I can leverage my communication skills and meet new people who can be a long-term connection.

The fitness industry is where I want to work because I myself like to stay in shape. Finding employment in this field will satisfy, inspire, and motivate me to be healthy on the daily.

Actionable Tasks:

Identify activities that have brought you satisfaction and fulfillment

List industries and job roles that align with your interest

How do I know I passed this?

You can list 3 of your biggest interests

You can list 3 industries and 3 job roles that excite you because your interest is also related

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Skills Assessment

Why Is This Important?

When you understand your skills, you can utilize your self-understanding to tailor your job search appropriately. Some people may want to improve some skills and take on certain jobs, while others may choose to avoid certain skills and thus avoid certain jobs.

Examples:

I don’t have any knowledge of photo editing and video editing nor any interest, so I will stay away from any job posts that cites “Photoshop” as a needed skill

I don't enjoy using the computer all day, so I will find a job in sales that’s specifically outdoors so I can meet clients outside and to better my social skills.

Actionable Tasks:

List your skills, and for each skill, list your proficiency level & interest level

Understand what skills your current job search will end up using and how that ties in with your existing skills and interest levels

How do I know I passed this?

You can list your top skill and know how it complements your current job search

You can list your worst skill and know how to address it in the long run (whether or not you want even to use this skill or improve it in the long run)

You can list the skills that will be used and gained for the current role that you’re applying for

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Personality Assessment

Why Is This Important?

A personality assessment provides insights into your strengths, preferences, and behavioral tendencies. They help you better understand yourself, your work style, and your interactions with others, increasing the likelihood of finding a satisfying and fulfilling career.

Examples:

I am an introvert & prefer working independently, so I will avoid jobs that require extensive teamwork and constant people interaction.

I am an active person. Instead of looking for only computer work, I will look for jobs that allow me to move more and be active rather than sit all day.

Actionable Tasks:

Here at

thejobsco.io⁠

, we recommend taking the 16 personality test:

https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test⁠

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Once you receive your assessment results, take the time to reflect on them. Review provided insights, strengths, and potential areas for development

Explore how the assessment results relate to your career choices and preferences

How do I know I passed this?

You completed the assessment with honesty

You identified how your personality traits align with specific job roles or work environments

You can identify 2 job roles that is a good fit for your personality

🏆Stage 2: Establish Your Career Objectives

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Work-life Balance

Why Is This Important?

Do you want to go to work every day feeling burned out? Maintaining a proper work-life balance is crucial for your physical and mental well-being. Work-life balance enables you to allocate time for personal relationships, interests, and hobbies and even sustain a better long-term performance for your career.

Examples:

I want to spend quality time with my family every weekend, so I’ll find a job with a weekend off.

I want to achieve my fitness goals, so I will get a job that will still give me the time and energy to work out after every shift.

Actionable Tasks:

Know your goals and priorities outside of your career to achieve work life balance

Bonus points: You’re able to put a price or weight on how important a goal is to your work life balance

How do I know I passed this?

You identified 3 personal goals and priorities outside of your career

You know how your personal goals and priorities aligns with your current job search or career (or, how it’s not aligned)

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Set Specific Goals

Why Is This Important?

Specific goals provide clarity about what you want to achieve. They define the desired outcome clearly, and concisely, leaving no room for uncertainty or confusion. Goals are more likely to motivate and drive you toward action. You may track your progress and accomplishments by breaking your goals into attainable milestones.

Examples:

I want to explore multimedia marketing roles in the future because the work is interesting is not prone to AI takeover, so I will enroll in different multimedia courses to gain knowledge and make a career shift.

I plan to obtain a managerial position in my department within the next few years. So I will enroll in a leadership training program, acquire project management skills, and try to demonstrate my strong management skills in my future job.

Actionable Tasks:

Set achievable goals that are as specific as possible

Bonus points if you know WHY you want to achieve those goals

How do I know I passed this?

You identified 3 goals that are super specific

For each goal, because they are specific, you have an actionable plan on how to achieve it

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Set Strategic Goals

Why Is This Important?

Setting strategic goals benefits your long-term career planning and life. Strategic goals are the opposite of specific goals, and can be left intentionally vague. This can include considering the potential for growth, advancement opportunities, industry trends, and the overall trajectory of your career.

Examples:

In my next role, I want to be in a stable company that offers long-term job security, benefits, and professional growth. A company that’s stable is strategically my focus above all else.

I am looking to build a diverse and versatile skill set. I will seek job opportunities that expose me to cross-functional roles or allow me to work on various projects, enabling me to develop a well-rounded skill set within the following year.

Actionable Tasks:

Reflect on your values, passions, strengths, and long-term aspirations, and create some strategic goals which can be vague in nature

How do I know I passed this?

You come up with 3 strategic goals

Optional: You can identify the actions or tasks required to move closer to the goal

Optional: You have set a specific timeframe for accomplishing each goal

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Identify Trends

Why Is This Important?

The job market constantly evolves, and new trends often shape business operations. Identifying trends helps you stay agile and adaptable in the job market. By understanding where the market is heading, you can anticipate changes and proactively adjust your career plans and skill development. This flexibility enables you to navigate shifting job market dynamics and position yourself for long-term success.

Examples:

I think the automation field is bound to make a breakthrough in the next 10 years. So I will first identify several top companies in this space, and I will actively search for roles such as R&D where I can be exposed first-hand to new innovations

I want to pursue a career in the marketing field. I need to stay updated on emerging marketing channels and platforms, especially anything digital. I also need to monitor the changes in digital advertising regulations and privacy concerns as the government tries to interfere more and more in this space.

Actionable Tasks:

Research and identify current trends, emerging technologies, and future skills within the target industry

Review job descriptions for positions you are interested in to identify common skills, qualifications, and keywords that indicate industry trends

Invest time acquiring or enhancing skills related to these trends to make yourself more marketable

How do I know I passed this?

You know your target field's latest industry developments, emerging technologies, and changing dynamics

You can identify opportunities where your skills and knowledge align with emerging trends and market needs

You can identify future sought-after skills in your target industry

📄Stage 3: Prepare Your Documents

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Prepare Your Resume Templates

Why Is This Important?

Nowadays, ATS systems filter applicants based on keywords, so having the right keywords is very important. By having a template that you can quickly swap certain words or lines, you can quickly optimize your resume to be the most relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Examples:

I want an interview invitation for this marketing role; I will update my resume to include keywords that a hiring manager might search for

I’m looking for an advanced R&D job which I know makes use of a special software. I’ll include that keyword in my resume and research about it later, or I’ll even learn that software in my spare time.

Actionable Tasks:

Research the buzzwords that are commonly used for the job you’re searching for

Research what makes a good resume, and make sure your resume fits those criteria

If you’re applying for several different job roles, prepare at least 2 resume templates which you can quickly swap out different keywords easily

How do I know I passed this?

You are able to explain why and how your resume/CV is best optimized for the job you’re applying for

Bonus: if you are applying for multiple jobs, you have at least 2 resume templates

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Prepare A Cover Letter Template

Why Is This Important?

Companies love enthusiastic candidates. If you submit a cover letter and other applicants didn’t, it could make put you on top of the radar, because the hiring manager knows you’re much more enthusasiastic. Nowadays, cover letters are less important. However, we recommend them anyway, as they are not too time-consuming to create if you prepare a template and can make a difference that puts you over the edge.

Examples:

When I clearly stated in my cover letter how I could solve their problems and help them with their needs, the hiring manager scheduled me for an interview.

When I showed enthusiasm and explained why I was the best person for the job, they immediately set up a phone interview.

Actionable Tasks:

Learn what a good cover letter looks like

Prepare a cover letter template that addresses what you can do for the company and why you’re a strong fit

How do I know I passed this?

Be able to explain why or how you have a good cover letter

Bonus points: Your cover letter is easily tailored to swap out certain lines or words to tailor it to the company you’re applying for, without it seeming too robotic or template-y

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Optional: Prepare Your References Sheet

Why Is This Important?

Positive references from trusted individuals can enhance your credibility and strengthen your candidacy, showcasing your track record of performing well and maintaining a positive relationship in previous roles. Nowadays, they are less important but some companies will still ask for them.

Examples:

I am applying for a managerial role. I will put my previous supervisors as a reference who can speak to my leadership abilities, decision-making skills, and ability to manage teams effectively.

I am seeking an opportunity as a graphic designer. I will include clients who have worked with me as references and can provide insights into my creativity and ability to deliver high-quality work.

Actionable Tasks:

Identify individuals who can serve as strong references for your job application

Contact each potential reference to seek their permission first

Be sure to inform them about the types of positions you are applying for and the specific skills or qualifications that are important for those roles

How do I know I passed this?

You have compiled a list of references with their names, titles, and contact information

You obtained permission from each of your references to include their contact information in your references sheet

You are sure that your references can speak to your skills, qualifications, and work experience that align with the requirements of the positions you are applying for

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Optional: Prepare Your Certificates

Why Is This Important?

Certificates are official documentation that validates your skills, qualifications, and achievements. Employers often seek candidates with specific certifications or qualifications, and presenting your certificates demonstrates that you possess the necessary expertise.

Examples:

I am applying for a digital marketing role. I will prepare my certificates, such as Google Ads certification, Google Analytics certification, and other related certifications, to showcase my digital marketing and platform expertise.

I am applying for a managerial role. I will prepare Leadership or Management certificates from a reputable institution or professional development programs focusing on leadership skills.

Actionable Tasks:

Research the requirements and preferences of potential employers to determine which certifications hold the most value and align with the skills and qualifications they seek

Create a plan and timeframe on how to obtain those credentials

How do I know I passed this?

You prepared digital copies or scans of your certificates readily available for quick sharing via email or online platforms, and included them on your resume

If you are missing important credentials, you’ve prepared a plan and timeframe on how to obtain them

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Optional: Optimize Your Online Presence

Why Is This Important?

Your online presence is an opportunity to shape and showcase your brand. It allows you to highlight your strengths, expertise, and unique value proposition. By curating and promoting your professional image online, you can differentiate yourself from other candidates and attract opportunities that align with your career goals.

Examples:

I want to pursue a project management role. I will highlight my project management expertise on my LinkedIn profile and other platforms.

I am seeking a graphic design position in a creative agency. I will create an online portfolio showcasing my projects with a user-friendly layout and high-quality visuals.

Actionable Tasks:

Review and update your professional online profiles, such as LinkedIn or professional website, and ensure they are updated with keywords that align with the skills and qualifications employers seek in your industry. Highlight your accomplishments, projects, and notable experiences

Optional: make sure your non-professional online presence (social media such as Instagram, Tiktok, etc) don’t contain anything NSFW. Examples include drug usage, political topics, nudity, etc.

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve optimized your professional online profiles and included the right keywords and experiences

You’ve optimized your non-professional online profiles to make sure there isn’t anything NSFW on there

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Optional: Showcase Your Projects

Why Is This Important?

Projects give employers a glimpse of your previous work and demonstrates what you’re capable of. Having concrete examples of completed projects can significantly impact hiring managers and increase your credibility as a candidate.

Examples:

I am applying for a Software Development position at a Tech company. I'll showcase a mobile app that I developed that demonstrates my programming skills and understanding of mobile app development.

I am seeking a Marketing manager role at a Digital marketing agency. I'll present a digital marketing campaign I planned and executed, showcasing my strategic thinking, creativity, and data-driven approach. I'll also include campaign objectives and their impact on brand awareness and sales.

Actionable Tasks:

Identify previous projects that you want to showcase in your resume

Communication is key. Write clear and concise narratives for each project, highlighting the problem or goal, your approach, your actions, and the results achieved. Definitely include the benefits and impacts of your project. Without a detailed writeup, you also run the risk of hiring managers thinking you used someone else’s work. Be ready to also discuss your projects in an interview.

Optional: If you work in a role where an online portfolio is important, consider creating an online portfolio or personal website & include these projects on there

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve prepared 1 or 2 projects to include in your resume and create the writeup for them highlighting the problem or goal, your approach, your actions, the results, & the benefits/impact achieved.

In an interview, you can confidently present your projects and articulate the details, challenges, and outcomes

Optional: You have prepared (separate of your resume) documentation/slides outlining the project objectives, scope, methodologist used, and outcomes achieved, that you can bring to an interview.

Optional: You have added your projects to your online portfolio or online website

🎯Stage 4: Prepare a List of Companies to Target

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Identify Target Companies

Why Is This Important?

Identifying target companies helps narrow your job search and focus on organizations aligning with your career goals, values, and interests. It provides direction and purpose, allowing you to tailor your job search strategy accordingly.

Examples:

I am looking for a Software Engineering position in the Tech Industry. I need to identify companies known for their innovative software products or services.

I am seeking a Design position in the Fashion Industry. I'll research companies that strongly emphasize aesthetics, craftsmanship, and a modern design-driven approach.

Actionable Tasks:

Reflect on your career aspirations, values, and interests to determine the type of companies that align with your professional objectives

Create a list of companies that matches your career goals and interests

How do I know I passed this?

You have listed the companies that reflect the industry, role, and work environment you desire

You gathered information about their products/services, company culture, and values

You genuinely feel motivated and enthusiastic about the prospect of working with these companies

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Optional: Identify Industries

Why Is This Important?

Researching industries helps you align your career aspirations with sectors that fit your skills, interests, and goals well. By understanding different industries, you can identify the ones that offer the types of roles and opportunities you seek.

Examples:

I want to work in the automotive industry because I am very passionate about cars, so I will target automotive companies with job openings that suit my qualifications.

I want to work in the fitness industry because I have plans to have my fitness center in the future. By working in this industry, I will learn more about the pros and cons of the business.

Actionable Tasks:

List down industries that you are passionate about

List down industries you are not passionate about. It’s equally as important to figure out where you DON’T want to work, to narrow down where you DO want to work.

How do I know I passed this?

You feel genuinely passionate and interested in the industries you’re applying for

You feel that the industry's mission, ethics, and overall impact align with what you consider important and meaningful in your professional life.

You feel confident that your skills and strengths will excel in your chosen industry

🔎Stage 5: Apply For Jobs

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Apply Online

Why Is This Important?

It’s the 21st century - most companies have implemented ATS systems and taken their hiring to digital, hence why applying online is #1 nowadays. Plus, applying in-person is time-consuming, costly, and ineffective as companies typically don’t hire in-person anymore (i.e. going to a store and handing in your resume)

Examples:

I want to apply for a job in my dream company, so I'll visit their website and find a suitable position for my skills and experiences.

I want to submit a job application for a specific marketing role. I'll visit job boards and use their job search tools to filter my search based on particular criteria, like location, salary, and industry.

Actionable Tasks:

Find a favorite jobs boards or companies’ job boards to apply online

Make sure to keep applying online daily

How do I know I passed this?

Applying for jobs is a numbers game. You are able to apply to a set personal target number of jobs per day and follow through on it.

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Optional: Career Fairs

Why Is This Important?

Career fairs typically gather representatives from various companies in one location. This enables you to explore opportunities with multiple employers and learn about their hiring needs, company culture, and available positions all in one place. You can also learn about upcoming openings, internships, or entry-level programs that fit your career goals.

Examples:

I want to transition into a new career field. Attending a career fair allows me to explore different industries and learn about the skills and qualifications required for a successful transition.

I don't want to leave my hometown and work elsewhere. I will attend a local career fair to learn about job opportunities in our area.

Actionable Tasks:

List down the companies attending the career fair and research each one. Make a plan to visit the ones you are interested in first.

Bring several copies of your resume & distribute to recruiters of the companies you’re interested in. Be mindful of your time as there might not be enough time to visit all the companies at a job fair.

The key here is to connect with the recruiters and make them remember you in a good light. Ask relevant questions and explain how you can bring value to their company. At the end, collect contact information from the recruiters or representatives you speak with, such as business cards or email addresses. Be sure to follow up with them later and personalize your email to make them remember you.

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve managed to visit all the companies you’re interested in

You’ve built good connections with the recruiters or representatives at those companies, collected their contact, and followed up with them

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Optional: Reach Out To Recruiters

Why Is This Important?

Recruiters get paid by matching the right candidate to the right company. That’s why they are delighted when you reach out to them with your full information, and they can then match you with whatever role they are currently recruiting for. If you work in tech, for example, reach out to tech recruiters. They’ll be happy to have you on their placement roster.

Examples:

I will reach out to the the tech recruiters on LinkedIn in my city (filterable through a search on LinkedIn) and first introduce myself to them, and give them my info and what roles I’m going for.

Actionable Tasks:

We recommend a bulk process - create a list of recruiters that are relevant to your industry or role or location. On LinkedIn and other sites, you can use search filters to narrow down who you’re search for.

Create a professional outreach message that clearly explains who you are & what you’re looking for & the salary range you’re looking for. Be extra clear in what your criteria is, it will save both you and the recruiter a lot of time. Reach out en-masse to your list of recruiters.

Take time to personalize your message to the recruiter and avoid using generic templates or massing emailing more than 1 person in 1 email. It’s your job to nurture these relationships after the initial outreach.

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve identified recruiters that are helpful in your job search. These recruiters are relevant to your wanted job role, industry, previous experience, or location somehow.

You’ve crafted a good outreach message that describes who you are, what you’re looking for role or salary-wise, & etc, and important details such as your resume, previous projects, certifications, & etc.

You’ve reached out to at least 5 recruiters

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Optional: Industry Events

Why Is This Important?

Industry events bring together professionals, experts, and potential employers in your field. Attending these events provides valuable networking opportunities to connect with people who may have job leads, industry insights, or contacts that can help you in your job search. Also, attending industry events gives you access to the hidden job market, where you can learn about job opportunities that may not be widely known.

Examples:

There's a trade show related to my field. I will attend the expo to engage with exhibitors and connect with industry experts to learn about potential job openings.

I will attend a webinar related to my field to connect with panelists and other attendees who may have insights or connections to job opportunities.

Actionable Tasks:

If available, research individuals or companies you want to connect with beforehand as you will have limited time at the event.

Before even giving out your contact, you must first build rapport and explain how you can offer value to the recipient. Focus on building a good connection first before doing anything else.

Bring updated resumes and business cards to share with individuals who you’ve connected with. In fact, you might have to nurture this relationship before a job opening even opens up.

Listen attentively during presentations, take notes, and absorb information that can enhance your understanding of industry trends and practices

How do I know I passed this?

You established meaningful connections with industry professionals at the event

You gained industry-specific knowledge and experienced personal growth

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Optional: Networking

Why Is This Important?

Networking expands access to hidden job opportunities and opens doors to referrals and recommendations from trusted contacts. Try reaching out to your family members, friends, and former coworkers. Sometimes, they can even send you a referral, which will get your foot in the door compared to other cold lead applicants with no company connections.

Examples:

I want to work in the finance sector. I'll reach out to my friend, who also works in the finance sector, and ask if he knows of some job opportunities in the industry and try to get a referral.

My cousin works as a Human Resource staff in a Real Estate company. For sure, she is aware of job events that will happen soon. I will contact her and ask for details about the following job fairs that will take place.

Actionable Tasks:

Prepare a list of all of your existing connections

Prepare an email template or rehearsed outreach message. Or, you might want to create out a personalized outreach message for each of them

Reach out to existing connections, inform them about your job search, and seek their support or advice.

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve reached out to at least 3 people

You feel comfortable reaching out to more people. Sometimes networking can feel grimy or annoying for you, but it’s still important, so you first have to get your mindset right when doing this activity.

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Optional: Cold Calls

Why Is This Important?

Many job openings are never publicly advertised, and cold calling sometimes works if you reach the right person.

Examples:

I found a company that aligns with my career goals and values. I know the number to their HR. I will call their them to ask about potential job openings.

I want to work in my hometown. I will list local businesses in our area that interest me and call their respective hiring managers to inquire about any open positions.

Actionable Tasks:

Prepare a list of numbers to cold call.

Cold call & introduce yourself confidently. When cold calling, you need to reach the right person, so ask if there are any openings or if you can be put in-touch with the hiring manager. If there isn’t a right person, ask who the right person to talk to is. Once you’re in touch with the right person, you can then explain that you’re looking for a job and try to set up an interview.

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve prepared a list of numbers to cold call. Don’t lose hope as cold calling is a numbers game and you will have to make many calls.

You know how to ask around to reach the right person to set up an interview

✏️Stage 6: Interview Prep

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Research the Company & Role

Why Is This Important?

The more you know about the company and role you are applying for, the better you can appear like you’re interested in working there. Companies love interested applicants - it means they are serious. Plus, it looks good when you’re prepared.

Examples:

I want to stand out from other applicants and show interest in working for the company. I will research and understand the company's values, mission, culture, and products/services.

I want to be perfectly fit for the role I am applying for, so I will review the job description and familiarize myself with the job requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications.

Actionable Tasks:

Understand the culture, mission, values, brief history, & products of the company by Googling it or finding it on their website

Review the job description and understand the responsibilities

How do I know I passed this?

If the interviewer asks, “What do you know about the company?” you can put together coherent points about their culture, mission, values, brief history, & products

You can explain daily responsibilities you will do daily on the job and engage in conversation about it with the interviewer

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Practice STAR Behavioral Interview Questions

Why Is This Important?

The interviewer wants to know how you are a good fit and what value you can provide to their company. Unfortunately, they won’t just believe you at your word, so you’ll have to communicate your suitability by demonstrating actual examples (in STAR format). “Don’t tell me; show me.”

Examples:

I don't want to feel nervous during the interview, so I will practice answering common behavioral interview questions.

I want to showcase my fit for the role, so I will prepare some STAR examples demonstrating this.

Actionable Tasks:

Prepare a study plan and dedicate a few hours every day to studying behavioral interview questions

Live speech rehearse answering some questions. As your examples will sound different in your head than in real life, we recommend speaking them out loud and practicing rehearsing it

How do I know I passed this?

You understand the basic form of the STAR format and can come up with your STAR example

You have at least 3 go-to examples to recite confidently during the interview. These should be broad enough that they can be adjusted for most questions and don’t make you think too hard when answering.

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Optional: Practice Technical Questions

Why Is This Important?

Technical interviews often have a specific format and structure that may differ from other types of interviews. Practicing technical interviews helps you become familiar with the typical format, question types, and expectations. It allows you to understand how to approach different technical problems, optimize your problem-solving strategies, and effectively communicate your thought process. It can also boost your confidence and reduce anxiety. Answering technical questions will show employers you have the right technical aptitude for a technical role.

Examples:

I’m applying for a Python role where I have to use a lot of math. I will practice technical interview questions about math algorithms and their implementations.

Actionable Tasks:

Prepare a list of technical questions you want to solve and understand. Organize these questions by difficulty. Have a schedule in mind on solving these questions, having in mind the difficulty ramp-up with some questions

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve practiced a good portion of your list of technical questions

You can explain your technical approach, articulate your reasoning, and communicate your solutions effectively for each technical question

You’ve prepared some self-made cheat sheets to help you review for an actual live technical interview

👔Stage 7: Right Before the Interview

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15 Minute Refresher

Why Is This Important?

You don't want to feel nervous during the interview. So before the interview, refresh your knowledge about the company and review the details of your resume. This will help you feel prepared and perform well during the interview.

Examples:

Right before the interview, I’ll just quickly look over all my notes and resume again to be extra prepared

Right before the interview, I’ll quickly rehearse my usual routine

Actionable Tasks:

Go over your notes about the company and role, and rehearse your usual routine (things like STAR format examples, details mentioned on your resume, past projects, etc.)

Reaffirm yourself to hype up your confidence

How do I know I passed this?

You feel confident after reviewing your notes and rehearsing your usual routine

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Dress & Groom for Success

Why Is This Important?

Companies want to hire prepared and professional candidates. Make an excellent first impression by showing up well-dressed and well-groomed. Besides, when you look good & feel good, your confidence level is through the roof.

Examples:

I am applying for a managerial role, so I’ll wear a suit and tie

I want to look sharp for my job interview, so I'll visit my barber to get a fresh cut

Actionable Tasks:

Dress for the occasion: If you’re applying to a bank, absolutely dress up as formal as you can.

Wear well-fitted clothes

Iron your shirts, dry clean your suits, etc.

Get a clean haircut and shave

Shower before the interview

Wear deodorant and/or perfume to smell nice

The small details: make sure your laces aren’t loose, loose buttons, stains, etc.

How do I know I passed this?

You were able to select an outfit formality level that is appropriate to the role you are applying for

Your appearances are well groomed

You smell nice

You feel confident

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Prepare A To-Go Pile

Why Is This Important?

Don’t scramble before going to an interview. Print out everything, organize it into one neat to-go pile, and take it to-go the next day. A to-go pile also applies to online interviews.

Examples:

I have an interview for a marketing coordinator role. I will prepare charts, graphs, or reports showcasing my marketing efforts’ impact on my previous role.

Actionable Tasks:

Make a digital checklist of documents you plan to include on your to-go pile. When you need to redo your to-go pile, you can look at this checklist again

Prepare your to-go pile in advance of an interview. Pack it in a bag or somewhere easy to locate

How do I know I passed this?

You’ve printed out multiple copies of your resume/CV that you can hand out if there is more than one interviewer

You have included all the necessary documents in your to-go pile that you can quickly grab before leaving

💬Stage 8: During The Interview

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Strong Positive Impression

Why Is This Important?

A strong first impression sets a positive tone for the rest of the interview. It creates momentum that can lead to more engaged and productive conversations, enabling you to build upon that initial positive impression and further demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role.

Examples:

I'm having an interview for a marketing manager role. I will arrive early for the interview to demonstrate my punctuality and respect for the interviewer's time

I will have an interview for a marketing role. I will start the interview with a strong and engaging introduction. I will use a confident and friendly tone to express my appreciation for being invited to the interview

Actionable Tasks:

Arrive a least 15-30 minutes before the scheduled interview time

Practice this rehearsed routine: Strong handshake, introduce yourself, thank the interviewer for their time, say how you are excited to apply for this role, explain why you're excited specifically (details are important to sound genuine), and relate your previous experience to this current role and how you think you can provide value

How do I know I passed this?

You've arrived 15 minutes earlier, consistently for multiple interviews

You can recite the above routine easily and like a record (and you sound actually excited in the delivery)

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Be Positive & Positive Body Language

Why Is This Important?

When it comes to interviews, body language is critical. It is one of the first things an interviewer notices about you. It contributes to the initial impression they form before you even start speaking. It conveys that you are comfortable, capable, and confident in your abilities, which can enhance your credibility as a candidate.

Examples:

I will maintain eye contact, nod to show understanding and lean slightly forward to express interest in the interviewer to show that I am paying attention.

Actionable Tasks:

Lean in gently without invading the other person's space

Maintain eye contact while occasionally nodding or looking away briefly to avoid entering into a staring contest

Sit up straight and open - no slouching or sitting cross-legged, and don't fidget

Use hand gestures when speaking to appear more animated

Relax your arms, fist, and legs

Be present with your eyes - it's easy to spot a bored person

Affirm your interviewer with different words to engage them = "Uh huh", "yes, right", "Exactly, go on", etc.

How do I know I passed this?

During the interview, you practiced every single checklist item of positive body language

And most importantly, you felt comfortable and confident during the interview

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Stay Professional

Why Is This Important?

When meeting someone for the first time, be professional. This person is not yet your friend. You don't know their prejudices, and you don't know how they will respond to the unique person that's you. Be as professional and cool as you can for the best outcome.

Examples:

I want the interviewer to understand me clearly, so I will avoid rushing my response and set my tone and pace to match the interviewer's demeanor.

Actionable Tasks:

Speak clearly and without using a lot of slang or cursing

Listen before you speak. If you're a slow talker, consider asking the interviewer if you can take some time to compose a well-crafted answer

Try not to assume too much. If you have to guess, you can politely ask the interviewer and confirm with him/her first

Stay polite and unprejudiced - "calm but cool"

How do I know I passed this?

You listened carefully and carefully crafted your answers

You were able to communicate politely, properly and did not assume anything

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Answer in STAR Format

Why Is This Important?

The STAR format provides a clear and organized structure for your responses and is easy to remember and put into words formulaically. Why the STAR format is so effective is that you're telling a story that actually shows and demonstrates. People are more keen on believing actual examples - in other words: don't tell me, show me.

Examples:

The interviewer asked me how I had handled difficult situations in the past. Using the STAR format can help me provide a structured and comprehensive example that highlights the benefits I could provide for the company.

Actionable Tasks:

Practice rehearsing behavioral interview questions and potential answers

Practice the STAR format until you're able to say your responses in this format

How do I know I passed this?

You have 3 go-to examples in which you can flexibly answer most behavioral interview questions

You can recite an answer in STAR format easily, like a record

You provided specific details in your example to improve its credibility

You go above and beyond by relating how the lessons learned and the impacts generated from your example can benefit the company you're interviewing for

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At The End: Ask Smart Questions

Why Is This Important?

By asking thoughtful questions, you show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the position and the company. It conveys your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn more. It provides an opportunity to gain insights into the company culture, expectations, team dynamics, and growth opportunities. It also allows you to assess if the company is a good fit for you.

Examples:

I'm interested in my future role at this company. I'll ask them about their expansion plans for the future, and I can relate my skills and experience to how I can be a part of their growth phase.

I'm interested in how they can sustain an advantage within their industry. I'll ask them about an industry-wide standard, how they compare according to it, and how this will change in the future.

Actionable Tasks:

Create a list of intelligent and relevant questions to ask during interview

Think about some hypothetical answers your interviewer could give you in response to these questions and rehearse relating your strengths and experience in relation to their, in a discussion

How do I know I passed this?

You have at least 3 go-to questions regarding either the role, industry, or company

Your question sparked a meaningful discussion about the company, and you were able to relate your role and fit within it

Your question helped you become further informed about the company or clarify any uncertainties you had

🤔Stage 9: After the Interview

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Send Personalized Thank You/Follow Up Emails

Why Is This Important?

Companies love enthusiastic candidates. By sending a thank you note, you can show your interviewer enthusiasm for the job. Furthermore, personalizing your thank you note. It can help the interviewer remember you and keep you on top of their mind.

Consider this: the hiring process is slow and tedious, involving multiple people and many stages. It could just be that the hiring manager is busy and hasn't gotten around to it. By sending a polite follow-up, you again show your enthusiasm, and you might entice the hiring manager to move the process along with you on top of mind.

Examples:

I will send a personalized thank-you email to the hiring manager and re-highlight an important point we discussed in the meeting, which can bring huge value to the company.

I will send a follow-up to show I'm still very much interested in the job and to highlight my enthusiasm from the rest of the pack

Actionable Tasks:

Craft a personalized thank-you email that discusses something you discussed with the interviewer and highlights the value you can bring to the company

Craft a personalized follow-up email after not hearing back for a while

How do I know I passed this?

Your follow-ups are personalized to the interviewer, helping your interviewer remember you and display your enthusiasm

In your personalized follow-ups, you may choose to highlight a strength or, optionally, to address a noticeable weakness or gap (it's better to highlight a strength than to address a weakness, but it's your decision)

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Optional: Self-Reflect On Your Interview

Why Is This Important?

Evaluating your performance allows you to identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement and thus perform better next time.

Examples:

I should have structured my answer in STAR format when responding to a behavioral question instead of rushing and being indirect about my explanation.

I should have been more confident in my body language during my interview to have a better deliverability

Actionable Tasks:

Set some formal time(at least 30 minutes) to self-reflect on your recent interview

Identify things you could improve on next time

Identify things you did well and focus on those for next time

How do I know I passed this?

You identified at least 1 thing you could improve next time. You've successfully set in motion an actionable plan on how to improve your identified weakness

You've assessed at least 1 thing that you did well, which you will continue to highlight next time

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Optional: Ask For Feedback

Why Is This Important?

Feedback helps you identify your weaknesses and strengths, how to improve them, and how to synergize them. Feedback is important because sometimes, industry experts know things we don't, and most often, we are blind to our own faults.

Examples:

I'd like to know how my qualifications and experience align with the role's and industry's requirements. I will reach out to the interviewer and request feedback regarding my performance.

I need insights to help me refine my skills and approach future opportunities. I will send an email to ask about my interview performance and receive some feedback.

Actionable Tasks:

Send a follow-up email or call to ask for feedback. Stay professional and courteous in all of your communications

Reflect on the feedback and identify areas for improvement and how you can apply the feedback to future interviews or professional development

How do I know I passed this?

You have sent a clear and concise request for feedback

After receiving feedback, you’ve spent some time to self reflect and improve it for next time

🤝Stage 10: The Offer

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Optional: Negotiate Your Offer

Why Is This Important?

By negotiating, you demonstrate your confidence, assertiveness, and ability to communicate your worth. It sends the employer a message that you clearly understand your value and are willing to advocate yourself. Negotiating your salary and benefits can lead to a higher starting salary, bonuses, additional vacation days, flexible working hours, or other perks. It ensures that you are fairly compensated for your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the organization.

Examples:

After receiving a job offer, I will negotiate a salary based on my qualification and industry standards to secure a higher starting salary.

Work-life balance is essential to me. I will negotiate flexible working hours or remote work options.

I have three years' worth of skills and experience for this role. My compensation should be higher.

Actionable Tasks:

Determine your top priorities and what aspects of the offer are most important for you

Identify your non-negotiables when it comes to a job offer

Be clear, concise, and respectful in your communication with the employer. You are able to translate why you are negotiating and how your unique experience add value to an organization that others can't

How do I know I passed this?

You understand your needs, wants, must-haves and won't hesitate to negotiate

You can clearly and respectfully navigate the negotiation process and don't feel awkward or stressed out about it

When responding, you can clearly translate in writing why your unique skills and experience can add value to an organization

💼Stage 11: New On-The-Job Training

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Make Introductions and Build Relationships

Why Is This Important?

For sure, everyone knows you because you are the new hire, but do you know them? Take the initiative to introduce yourself to colleagues and supervisors. By connecting with them, you gain insights into the organization, which can help you navigate the work environment more smoothly.

Examples:

I need mentorship at my new job, so I must develop a strong connection with my more experienced colleague.

I must build strong bonds with my coworkers since I need someone to talk to lower my stress levels while working.

Actionable Tasks:

Change your mindset toward making new friends, It's in your imperative to make friends early on

Interact with people positively to make new friends (be humble/not a know-it-all)

Tip: Treat people out to lunches

How do I know I passed this?

The people at your job generally like you and your attitude

You've made at least 2 good relationships in your new role

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Ask For Written Training

Why Is This Important?

Written training materials outline the steps, processes, and procedures to perform your job effectively. Access to written documentation ensures you have a reliable resource to refer to whenever you need clarification or guidance.

Examples:

I am starting a job as a project manager at a construction company. I will inquire about the company's project management methodologies, templates, and tools to plan, execute, and track projects.

I recently joined a customer service role at a call center. I will request a copy of the call center's standard operating procedure (SOP) document that outlines step by step process for handling customer inquiries, resolving issues, and following companies.

Actionable Tasks:

Approach your supervisor or training personnel to request written training materials

Seek clarification from your supervisor or trainers if you have further questions regarding training materials

Keep the materials safe and in an easily accessible place for future reference

Optional: consider updating the training/adding to it with your own knowledge and sending the up-to-date version to your manager

How do I know I passed this?

You were able to procure written training materials and recorded it somewhere for future access

You went through the documentation. If you didn’t understand something, you’ve reached out to your supervisors about it

You've updated the training with your own thoughts and knowledge and helped improve the training for future trainees

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Seek Feedback and Guidance

Why Is This Important?

As much as possible, you want to avoid mistakes when you are new to a job. That's why asking advice from colleagues lets you draw on their knowledge. They can help you navigate your new job and the organization with insights, ideas, and best practices. You can learn faster and avoid errors by learning from others.

Examples:

I want to be one of the top performers on our team, so I must ask my manager for advice and tips on achieving it.

Set up some formal time with your manager and ask the right questions when it comes to feedback or improvement

Actionable Tasks:

Create a list of questions to ask

Identify the most skilled person(s) in your organization and try to sit down with them sometime to have them explain how things work to you.

Your manager work closely with you can can give better feedback. Set up some formal time with your manager and ask for questions & feedback. Even if it’s still early on in your job, doing this is still considered very proactive.

How do I know I passed this?

You know how to be polite and respectful when asking for other's feedback or improvement suggestions

You've set up at least 2 meetings with experts (including your manager) in your organization and had them explain things to you

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Know the Roles Within Your Organization

Why Is This Important?

Knowing your colleagues’ roles allow you to understand who is responsible for specific tasks and who to collaborate with on projects or assignments. It helps establish effective communication channels and ensures smooth teamwork within the department. It also allows you to identify scope of your work and avoid overlapping or duplicating efforts with others.

Examples:

I was assigned to a project that required input from different team members. Understanding the roles within the department allows me to identify the individuals responsible for various projects.

I encountered a technical issue that I need help with. By knowing the roles within the department, I can reach out to the appropriate colleague who has expertise in that area.

Actionable Tasks:

Familiarize yourself with the organizational structure of your department or the entire organization

Observe how people perform their tasks, interact with others, and handle various responsibilities

Actively participate in team projects or collaboration to witness firsthand how different roles come together to achieve a common goal

How do I know I passed this?

You have a clear understanding of your role and responsibilities, as it relates to your department or the entire organization

You can confidently describe the roles and responsibilities of your colleagues within your department or the entire organization

You know who to approach when it comes to a problem or domain

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Optional: Identify Factions & Leaders

Why Is This Important?

Identifying factions and leaders helps you understand the underlying power dynamics within the organization. It allows you to recognize who holds the key positions, who has influence, and who affects decision-making processes. This knowledge is crucial for navigating the organization effectively and building relationships with the right people.

Examples:

Upon onboarding into my new role, I learned the company is undergoing restructuring. I must identify the key factions and leaders involved to navigate this transition successfully & ensure my job security.

As a new employee, I learned that my department is considered stagnant with technology, and the director will soon to retire. My manager is trying to get a good performance review and become the new director.

Actionable Tasks:

Observe and listen to gather information

How do I know I passed this?

You are able to name specific individuals and factions who hold influential positions or leadership roles within the organization

You have identified informal networks or relationships that exist within the organization

You noticed that decisions, projects, or initiatives are influenced or shaped by specific individuals or groups

You noticed alliances or relationships between individuals that extend beyond their formal roles