A Message from Mary:

Top Ten Steps in the Job Search:

1. Prioritize - define what is important to you most. Discover who you are, where you would like to work and then how much money you need to make.

2. Create a List - Make a wish list of 3-5 companies you would like to work for. The right company will be one whose values mesh with yours.

3. Eliminate Limitations - Don't limit your wish list to Retail .

4. Do your Homework - Research each of your wish-list companies and even the prospective supervisor.

5. Know Yourself - jot down your strengths and weaknesses what differentiates you and makes you a good choice.

6. Be Positive - when updating your resume, keep it upbeat, shout out your accomplishments.

7. Chat it up - Keep an eye out for associations where executives from your wish-list companies will be speaking. Take advantage of these opportunities to introduce yourself.

8. Ask the Right Questions - Ask open ended questions, instead of asking if they have any openings, ask if you can schedule time to follow up with the right person to learn more about their company.

9. Express Yourself - if you are considering changing careers to a new industry this provides an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your abilities over a period of time.

10. Look Ahead - Your goal should be to position yourself for long term economic security rather than looking for positions that will simply pay the most short term.


Mary R Lauth