If you’re in the midst of a job search – or about to start – you’ve probably realized that the job market is fierce. Long gone are the days of flipping through the newspaper looking at job openings, or going into an office and hand-delivering your resume. So much has become automated, and how you present yourself – both on paper and in an interview – matters.
That’s why we’ve rounded up 10 books to help you keep your search moving forward and boost your confidence as you embark on new opportunities:
1. “What Color is Your Parachute?” by Richard N. Bolles
This book has been on job seekers’ radars for years, and for good reason. Bolles releases an updated version annually to align insight with the current market and trends. Whether you’re just starting out in your career, looking to switch job paths, or searching for the next opportunity, you can find tips for tackling job searches, effectively networking, preparing your resume, and figuring out what jobs may be a good fit for you.
2. “The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do” by Jeff Goin
Find where your interests, talents, and desires intersect in order to seek out not just another job, but a fulfilling career you love. Reworking your path can be scary, but it can also be life-changing in a good way.
3. “Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life” by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans
Apply design theories to your own life and career to build something satisfying, productive, and enjoyable. Get out of the rut you’ve been in, try new things, learn from your mistakes, and reinvigorate your future.
4. “Knock ‘em Dead: The Ultimate Job Search Guide” by Martin Yate, CPC
Gain insight into how to craft a more effective resume, build your professional network, and perform better in job interviews. Change your perspective and update your approach to job searching to remain competitive.
5. “The New Rules of Work: The Modern Playbook for Navigating Your Career” by Alexandra Cavoulacos and Kathryn Minshew
Applying for jobs has changed over the years, and it’s essential to keep up with current trends. Learn how to navigate through finding your career path, conquering interviews, networking, negotiating offers and more with step-by-step advice.
6. “Getting From College to Career: Your Essential Guide to Succeeding in the Real World” by Lindsey Pollak
Breaking into the workforce can be tough for new graduates who often have little job experience. Learn how to leverage the skills and experience you do have to feel more confident in your job search and interviews with actionable strategies you can use.
7. “Pivot: The Only Move That Matters is Your Next One” by Jenny Blake
Have you reached a plateau with your job? Ready to pursue a new direction? Get practical advice for determining your next step and taking action to transition your career.
8. “The 2-Hour Job Search: Using Technology to Get the Right Job Faster” by Steve Dalton
The Internet makes so much information available with the click of a button, but how do you make sense of it all? Learn more about targeting companies, finding and connecting with contacts, prioritizing jobs, and making the most of opportunities to get your foot in the door.
9. “The Pathfinder: How to Choose or Change Your Career for a Lifetime of Satisfaction and Success” by Nicholas Lore
Whether you’re a new grad or ready for a change, it’s important to know where you’re headed. Take a variety of assessments, engage in reflection, and figure out where you want to take your career moving forward. Find a job you love that’s a great fit.
10. “A Foot in the Door: Networking Your Way into the Hidden Job Market” by Katherine Hansen
Boost your network, leverage online portfolios and blogs, and discover how informational interviews can help you get ahead. Job searching isn’t just about applying through online job boards.
With the right resources, strategies, and tools at hand, you can feel more confident in your job search and making connections to land your next position. Get started on the right foot by having a solid resume and cover letter that you can tweak for any role you find. The team at Grammar Chic will work with you to make sure your materials are up-to-date and align with current trends. Contact us today at (803) 831-7444 or resumewriting@grammarchic.net to get started.
