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Practical tips

There are many ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’ in the job seeking process.

To help make your search a smooth one, we’ve put together a series of checklists on important elements of the job seeking process.

sub pages within the Practical Tips section
Cold calling employers
Applying for jobs - Preparing applications and résumés
Job interviews

Starting work


Have a plan

The key to success is to have a well thought out plan.

Know what you want
If you’re not sure about what career direction to take, visit the How to choose section.

Broadly map out what is going to make you appeal to employers
Include your skills, strengths, experience and qualifications. To help you do this, fill in this checklist to figure out what you’re good at.

Develop a résumé
Tailor this to suit different employers and job applications. Identify what is important to each employer and what your key selling points are. Put your résumé together with our online Résumé Builder.

Plan how you are going to find jobs
Always use a combination of techniques to find a job. Visit Find that job section for more ideas.

Set goals
Make yourself some bite-sized personal goals, such as how many jobs you are going to apply for each week until you find a job, and reward yourself each week for the effort you have put in. Remember to be patient – it will pay off.

Approach getting a job like a project
Allocate certain times for particular tasks and stick to them. This will help you stay focused and in a routine. For example:

  • Monday: follow up any jobs you applied for last week.
  • Tuesday: visit your local Job Network member and search for new jobs to apply for.
  • Wednesday: complete the applications and send them away.
  • The more committed you are, the more likely you are to succeed.
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Top Tip

Top Tip

Practice makes perfect: it’s a good idea to practice your job interview with a friend.