Using the web:

www.bls.gov/oco/ - The online version of the Occupational Outlook Handbook, produced by the U.S. Department of Labor. An accessible resource for researching occupational fields, the database provides what workers do in a particular job and in what working conditions; training and education required for an occupation; typical earnings; and a Job Outlook projection for the next decade.

www.job-hunt.org/ - This site is an “information clearinghouse” that provides a simple way to branch to a particular state for job resource and networking links. Includes a tutorial for the online job search (www.job-hunt.org/starting.shtml), as well as no-cost articles and many links to other resources.

http://www.jobhuntersbible.com/ - A comprehensive site from Richard N. Bolles, the author of What Color is Your Parachute? There is a lot of information presented, but the menus and submenus are easy to navigate.

Job-Hunting Online (5th Edition). Bolles, Mark E., and Bolles, Richard N. (2008). Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press. This book is a companion to What Color is Your Parachute? and provides a wealth of information for using the internet during the job search effort.

In print:

Atlanta Jobs (15th Edition). Hines, Stephen E. ( 2003). Atlanta, GA: CareerSource Publications. Written by an Atlanta personnel professional, this is a comprehensive reference for organizing a job search including resume preparation and interviewing techniques. A 90-page appendix provides company profiles for many of Atlanta’s largest employers. Also includes a nice summary of why and how to prepare a “30-second” oral resume. This guide is appropriately used after you have already identified the skills you want to use and have a specific job objective in mind.

The Damn Good Resume Guide: A crash course in resume writing (4th Edition). Parker, Yana. (2002). Berkeley, CA: Ten Speed Press. Provides a methodical approach to creating a resume that reflects an individual’s skill match to the job objective. Particularly helpful in providing guidelines for streamlining / consolidating content. A very affordable guide—highly recommended.

If you find the written guides a little overwhelming or desire personalized assistance, please contact Pontus Consulting to discuss how our services will benefit you!