Here's the Right Job Search Tools

Below is the complete and ideal package of job search tools. If you have the funds for the full meal equipment deal, here's the equipment and supplies you'll need:

• A computer – it doesn't have to be fast
• Word Processing Software - Microsoft Word is the most universally accepted
• Spreadsheet Software - To better track your job search activities
• A printer – ink jet is fine, laser is better
• An Internet connection - high speed is best (you want to find a job fast, don't you?)
• Good, heavy stationary - for your resume ( 25 pound bond paper is best)
• Good, heavy envelopes – don't put your expensive looking resume in a cheap envelope
• A fax machine – yes, there are still companies that want fax instead of email
• A cell phone – you don't want to miss that interview call because you're grocery shopping
• A land line phone – still best for talking from home
• A portfolio – to carry your resume, references, etc to your interview

Let me stress that the above job search tools list is the ideal for an employment search and presumes you already have some or all of the items, or that you can buy them if you don't.

If you have limited funds for job search tools, there are low or no cost alternatives.

Your local library will have computers, printers and an Internet connection. You can use your own high quality paper and their computers will probably have word processing software. Instead of a spreadsheet, you can use lined notebook paper to track your search activites.

A fax machine is nice to have but not a necessity. However, you can buy one today for less than fifty dollars. It's a good investment because it can double as an extra phone and make copies (though the quality will not be as good as a copier). It will also be useful if a potential employer needs copies of original documents from you fast, such as a drivers license or social security card.

A land phone line is mandatory and a cell phone is almost a necessity today, so have both if you possibly can.

You can buy a nice leather-look portfolio for about ten dollars and it will make you look more professional in interviews.