Knock Em Dead

Knowledge and preparation are essential skills for any job seeker. From the beginning of "Knock 'Em Dead", Martin Yate emphasizes a "well-stocked briefcase". Meaning you must have the correct tools to begin the job hunt. The most important asset to an individual searching for a job is a resume. Resumes require job seeker to evaluate the position available and his skills for the position. Yate offers the following tips on preparing a resume:

• Prepare two different resumes - a "computer friendly" one and a professional, non-computer version.
• Label job descriptions specific enough to appear knowledgeable, yet brief enough to be open to questions.
• If you must state a job objective, do not request specifics of the employer. Do not state past salary figures or future salary hopes.
• Use an "executive briefing" instead of a cover letter.
  

Once a resume has been produced, the next step is the job search. Yate states "Job Hunters who 'knock 'em dead' at the interview are those that do their homework". Yate discusses eleven methods to job searching. Direct research is the first method and involves setting up an actual map with push-pins designated for resources that will give you a plethora of options to start with. Mailing lists may also be purchased of companies in the field chosen. Newspapers, public and private employment agencies, headhunters, network with references, college placement offices, professional associations, job fairs, trade and business magazines, and the electronic job hunt. The key to all of these methods is organization and "stacking the odds in your favor".

The next step in the job hunt is the first contact with perspective employers. Whether it be on the phone or in person, always paint the best picture of yourself and the situation in which you are currently looking for employment. Remain in control of the situation by asking questions of the screening person or the person in charge of interviewing but not hiring. Yate discusses how to turn "no's" around into another chance to get into the door. Always leave a prospective employer with asking a question on other possible leads in the industry.