Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/142672
on the job hunt Whether a newcomer to the profession or a veteran practitioner eager to change course, being prepared for the job hunt is like developing an action plan before buying a home or enrolling in college. While getting the job search started is never easy, developing a plan of attack will make it less of a chore and more of an ultimately rewarding challenge. The first place to start is to evaluate your goals. Where are you now and where do you want to be? What type of work environment will make you most comfortable? What are your long-term and short-term objectives? Do you enjoy working side by side with many people or prefer the comfort of a small shop? Do you want to try something new like cruise ship work or something more medically oriented like a chiropractor's office? Only you can answer these questions, so first start with developing your own road map. Network Once you know the direction you'd like to pursue, tell people. Networking is more than meeting with other bodywork professionals and discussing ideas. Networking is about "working" all the relationships you've created. Tell your hair dresser you're looking for a new job; she may be personal friends with a day spa owner. Tell the auto mechanic; yes, even he might know of someone who could be helpful to you in the job hunt. Tell your workout partner, your doctor, your teachers, your neighbors, your friends. The point is, everyone has the potential to be that one contact that leads to that one great job. List the people in your life who should know of your job search, and begin getting the word out. Remember, most jobs are never even advertised. The adage is true—it's often who you know and who you tell. most effectively. Simple is often best. Design the resume to fit the job opportunity, both in look and content. You may find that creating several resumes is in order—alternatives tailored to different job opportunities. Some basics to include in your resume: • ead the resume with your name, H title, and contact information (address, phone, email). Short of calling the decisionmaker you hope to interview with, a personalized cover letter is the best way to get your name Resume The importance of a quality resume is paramount. Granted, you're not planning on writing for a living, but the written materials you place in front of an employer (resume, cover letter, etc.) speak volumes about your organizational skills, your ability to produce error-free work, and the amount of effort you put into a task. A resume or cover letter filled with misspellings or grammatical errors won't end up on the top of the pile. There are hundreds of resources available to help you create a resume that will tell your story in front of the right person. • ist experience pertinent to L the job you are seeking. • ist education/training/workshops/ L seminars. In addition to initial programs (your entry massage school), be sure to list continuing education courses you've taken. • ist associations and L professional affiliations. • ist special skills (craniosacral L work, good marketing skills, lifeguard training, etc.). • ist special interests (this can be L work-related, or a chance to list some of your outside interests and show some personality). • ist publications in which L you've appeared as an author, contributor, or featured subject.