For several years I’ve dabbled in helping others with job searches. I am NOT an expert. Just an observer of things that work, and especially of things that don’t! It’s finally time to start building a reference guide.

Disclaimer. I’ve received input from many sources. Career Direct. Crossroads. Career Handler. Career Focus. Peter Bourke and C3G. Mark Warren. John Kalusa. Probably others. I know some of these have influenced my thoughts and I want to give credit where credit is due. I have no intent of plagiarizing, yet there is probably nothing that’s an original thought with me.

My motivation comes from having visited quite a few “Career ministries.” Very mixed opinions — there are some great ones and some, well, not so much. Some great encourager ministries. Some great prayer ministries. Both of those are good, but please don’t confuse prayer and encouragement with being a career or job search ministry! A good Job Search ministry helps people get jobs and that should be the key measurement!

If you are one of the people who has the skills, or connections, or is in a specialty industry where you are confident you can walk right out and get a satisfying job within a few days, then you don’t need to read any further. Go right ahead and enjoy your situation!

Most of us, especially those of us ‘well over 29,’ are going to need to invest more effort. Finding a job can quickly become a full time job, and it tends to have a lot of overtime. There are specific steps, some with many sub-steps.?Trying to skip steps, or attempting shortcuts, or going out of order, will be counter-productive. The fastest way to a new job? One step at a time, in order. Also, don?t go it alone!

So, with that little bit of background, I’ll jump in! If you’re in a job search I pray you will find useful ideas here.

Last updated: 9/28/2014

You can find all my Job-Search related articles here.