How to start a job search: Checklist and resume tips

Whether you’re entering the workforce, changing careers, recently unemployed or looking for your next step, these tips can help you organize your search and present your experience clearly. If you’re exploring opportunities at State Farm, you can also visit our Careers site to learn about current openings and what to expect in the application process.

Quick answer: Job search checklist

Consider all relevant experience

When building your resume, include experience that demonstrates skills, including work you have done in your previous roles, as well as experience from internships, coursework, leadership roles and volunteer work. For example:

• Previous jobs and responsibilities that connect to what the role needs
• Transferable work skills like communication, problem solving, customer service, project coordination or leadership
• College leadership and involvement (clubs, student organizations, fraternity/sorority leadership)
• Internships or summer positions
• School publications (writing, editing or research)
• Volunteer roles that show responsibility and teamwork

The goal is to help potential employers quickly understand your strengths and how they translate to the job you want.

Networking for job seekers

Networking can help you learn about roles and get guidance. Consider reaching out to:

• People you have worked with in previous roles such as former coworkers, managers or supervisors
• Classmates
• Former professors and mentors
• Friends and contacts in your target industry

Helpful prompts include asking for career insights, application advice or recommendations on where to look, not simply asking for a job.

Self-reflection before you apply

Before you submit your application materials, get clear on what you want next:

• What type of role are you targeting?
• What skills do you want to use and what skills do you want to build?
• If you’re changing fields, are you comfortable with the tradeoffs (learning curve, required certifications, pay expectations, relocation needs)?

Self-reflection helps you apply with confidence and craft better examples about your growth.

Do your research on the role and company

Many hiring decisions come down to fit. Research:

• Requirements: this includes certifications, education level, specific tools/skills or job responsibilities
• Company priorities: what the organization emphasizes (customer focus, innovation, community impact, etc.)
• Role expectations: what you might do day-to-day

When you understand both the role and the company’s direction, it becomes easier to connect your experience to what the job needs.

How to tailor your resume

Tailor your resume by highlighting the skills and experiences most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use language that reflects the job description to clearly demonstrate how your background aligns with the role’s requirements.

Hiring teams also look for consistency between your resume/application and what you share on professional profiles. If something differs (or appears to be misrepresented), it can create risk in the hiring and background process.

Consider a cover letter when it adds value

A cover letter can help you connect the dots:

• State why you’re interested in the role
• Reference 1–2 examples that match key requirements from the posting
• Keep it concise and professional

Review your social media profiles

Because many employers may review online presence during screening, take a moment to:

• Ensure your profiles look professional
• Check that your work history and roles don’t conflict with what you submit
• Lock down or remove content that could be misunderstood

Apply strategically and prepare for job interviews

To help improve your odds:

• Apply through official job postings
• Use career centers, alumni networks and professional connections (especially if you’re a student or recent graduate)
• Consider expanding to additional locations if relocation fits your plan

As soon as you begin applying, shift into interview preparation:

• Review common interview questions
• Practice answers with real examples that show what you did, what you learned and the result

After you’ve applied, be prepared to connect your experiences and examples to the role you’ve applied to, what were the things you took action on, what changed as a result of your action and what were the outcomes during and after,” says Zach Zwaga, Talent Management Manager at State Farm.

Organize your job search

Track your search so you can move efficiently:

• Roles you’ve applied to and dates
• Resume versions used for each role type
• Interview dates and next steps
• Any follow-up actions you need to prepare for

If you receive more than one offer, compare them using factors like growth opportunities, responsibilities, benefits commute/relocation and role fit, not just salary.

Frequently asked questions

1. Q: How do I start a job with no experience?
   A: Start by focusing on transferable experience, such as projects, internships, coursework, volunteering and leadership roles. Tailor your resume to the skills mentioned in the job description and be ready to explain what you learned and how it connects to the role.
2. Q: Should I tailor my resume for every job?
   A: Yes, at least by emphasizing the skills and experiences that align with the posting. Tailoring should stay truthful; don’t misrepresent experience or credentials. Consistency across your resume and application information also matters.
3. Q: Do I need a cover letter?
   A: You may not always be required, but a cover letter can help when it’s a good fit for the role. If you include one, keep it concise and connect your background to the job requirements with clear examples.
4. Q: How do I prepare after I submit applications?
   A: Start interview preparation as applications begin. Review common questions, draft a few scenarios that show your impact and practice connecting your experience to what the role needs.
5. Q: How many jobs should I apply to?
   A: There isn’t one perfect number. The key is applying consistently to roles that match your target requirements and tracking your progress so you can adjust your resume and approach as you learn what’s working.

Explore careers at State Farm and view current openings on our Careers site.