ACTIVITY:

One of the most important first steps in looking for a job is being able to keep track of your search. Below are steps to download a job search log, which you can use to stay on top of the jobs you've applied for, who you talked to, and the status of your applications and interviews.

1. Download and open the Jobs Search Log.
2. On the "Jobs Search Log" tab list the details of any jobs you have recently applied for. If you have not recently applied for any jobs, list a few companies that you wish to work for.
3. Save the document to the desktop or your online file storage system.
4. If you do not have an online file storage system set up, email the desktop copy of the file to yourself.
5. Continue to update the document as you look for work.

ACTIVITY:

Looking for a job is hard work. First you must prepare your résumé and cover letter, then find jobs you want to do and companies you want to work for, then you have to apply. But what happens after you apply? Recruiters see hundreds of applications per day. Even if yours gets noticed they may not have time to get in touch. That is why it is always important to follow up. Let's practice that.

1. Head over to indeed.com.
2. Search for jobs in San Francisco that fit your skill set.
3. Pick one job that you would like. Now, let's pretend that you've already applied and it has been about a week so you need to follow up.
4. Send an email to your intructor pretending that they are they recruiter. For example:
• Subject: Following up on [position title] application
• Body:
  Hi [hiring manager name],
  
  I hope all is well. I know how busy you probably are, but I recently applied to the [position title] position, and wanted to check in on your decision timeline. I am excited about the opportunity to join [company name] and help [bring in new clients / develop world-class content / anything else awesome you would be doing] with your team.
  
  Please let me know if it would be helpful for me to provide any additional information as you move on to the next stage in the hiring process.
  
  I look forward to hearing from you,
  
  [Your name]

ACTIVITY:

Networking is incredibly important and should not be overlooked. Unfortunately, networking doesn't always come natural to everyone but the more your practice it, the better you will become.

1. Copy and paste the questions below into a new email.
1. List the names of three to five personal contacts that you could reach out to about job opportunities.
2. List the names of three to five professional contacts that you could reach out to about job opportunities.
3. Let's create your elevator pitch.
• I am [your qualificatoins]. (Ex: I am Kyle and just recently completed a technology certification program.)
• I want to [your desired job]. (Ex: I want to work as an IT professional.)
• I can [your skills]. (Ex: I can install most networking equipment and am great with both Windows and Mac computers.)
2. Answer the questions and send this to your instructor with the subject "Network and Elevator Pitch".

ACTIVITY:

Your personal brand is how people see, evaluate, and judge you. Potential employers may decide whether or not to hire you based on your personal brand without even reading your résumé. Because of this it is important to keep your brand fresh and presentable. Let's practice building your brand by answering a few questions.

1. Copy and paste the questions below into a new email.
1. What am I most passionate about?
2. What kind of contribution would I like to make?
3. What are my current skills? What are my most unique and marketable skills?
4. What is my current reputation among my friends and colleagues?
5. How do I want to be perceived by others?
6. Who is the audience for my brand?
7. How will I promote my personal brand online? What is my online reputation?
8. Do I need any of the following for my online brand?
• Professional email address
• Blog
• Online résumé or portfolio
• Personal website
• LinkedIn
9. How will I promote my brand offline?
10. Do I need any of the following for my offline brand?
• Business cards
• Résumé or portfolio
• Elevator pitch
• Wardrobe
11. How will I maintain my brand over time?
2. Answer these questions then send the email to your instructor with the subject "My Personal Brand".

ACTIVITY:

Let's get you started off on the right foot by creating your LinkedIn account.

1. Head over to linkedin.com.
2. Fill out the first page of required fields and click Join Now.
3. Fill out the second page of required information and click Create my profile.
4. Click Skip this step when asked to find your contacts already on LinkedIn and confirm when the dialogue box appears.
5. On the next screen you will be asked to verify your account. Click Send me a confirmation email instead..
6. Check your email for the message and click Confirm my email address.
7. You will be directed back to LinkedIn. Click the Choose Basic button to select the free account.
8. Once you land on your profile you can return back here to watch a few more videos before completing any more information.

ACTIVITY:

1. Head back to your LinkedIn profile.
2. Practice searching for a few jobs, just like you did on Indeed.com.
3. Find three companies to follow that you admire and would like to work for.
4. Lastly, use the guided walkthrough to complete as much of your profile as you can.