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STEPS TO TAKE WHEN LOOKING FOR A JOB
From University of Embu, I was able to learn all these, with the help of Prof. Mugendi.
Preparation Stage
1. Self-Assessment Before searching for a job, evaluate your skills, interests, strengths, and values. Identify your hard skills (e.g., coding, writing, graphic design) and soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork). Consider the type of work environment and company culture you thrive in. Use tools like personality tests (e.g., MBTI, StrengthsFinder) or career quizzes to help clarify goals. 2. Set Clear Goals Define your career objective (e.g., “I want a remote digital marketing job in a startup”). Decide on the type of job: full-time, part-time, remote, hybrid, freelance. Set a timeline for your job search and milestones for applications and interviews. 3. Research the Job Market Identify industries that are actively hiring. Research salary ranges for your target roles. Look into companies you're interested in – their mission, values, culture, recent news, etc. 4. Update Your CV and Cover Letter Tailor your CV for each job: highlight relevant skills and achievements.
Keep it concise (1–2 pages), with bullet points and action verbs. Write a strong, job-specific cover letter showing your interest and value to the company.
5. Optimize Your Online Presence Update your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo, updated job roles, skills, and an engaging summary. Ensure your social media (especially public profiles) are professional. Create a portfolio or personal website if you're in a creative or tech field.
Application Stage
6. Search for Job Opportunities Use job boards: LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, Monster, Google Jobs. Visit company career pages directly. Attend job fairs and industry-specific events. 7. Network Actively Tell friends, family, and professional contacts you’re job hunting. Join LinkedIn groups, online communities, and forums in your industry. Attend webinars, workshops, and networking events. 8. Apply Strategically Apply to jobs that align with your skills and goals – quality over quantity.
Use feedback (if provided) to improve for future applications.
13. Stay Organized and Motivated Use job search apps or spreadsheets to keep track of deadlines and follow-ups. Set daily or weekly application goals (e.g., apply to 5 jobs per week). Take regular breaks to avoid burnout. The process can be long, but persistence pays off. 14. Leverage Job Support Resources Visit your university or local career center for help with CVs, mock interviews, etc. Seek mentorship from professionals in your target industry. Join job-seeking accountability groups for mutual support. 15. Keep Learning Stay updated on industry trends. Learn new tools, platforms, or programming languages relevant to your field. Keep building your personal or professional projects to showcase initiative.
Conclusion
Finding a job is a step-by-step process that requires preparation, consistency, and adaptability. By taking a structured approach—starting with self-assessment, then carefully targeting your applications, and finally following up and staying persistent—you can significantly increase your chances of landing the job you want.
