The difficult step of a job search is in getting started. Most slow starts can be attributed to not being able to get over being laid-off or fired. Sure, it is always difficult facing such a situation and you do need time to mourn the loss of a job but only give yourself a few days at the most. Then get started!

The sooner you get started in your job search the better you will feel and the faster you will be able to get back to work in a job that best suits you.

Here are 10 tips everyone can use when faced with having to get back into the job market.

1. Skills reflection - take time to reflect on the skills you have acquired at your previous and past jobs. Write down at least three things that an employer might like about the way you work or how you work. Everyone acquires new skills at every job so, think about what you have learned and write them down. You will  be able to use this info later on when writing your cover letter or resume.
2. Determine your career objective - Focus on what you want to do moving forward. Do you want to change industry? Perhaps pursuing a higher level position or explore the possibility of self-employment. Whatever course you take, stick to it. you will find that being focused will help speed up the time it takes to find your next position.
3. Craft your strategy - view your job search as a campaign, look at the most effective tools, techniques and resources out there that can help you develop your strategy. Build your plan, break your search into daily, weekly and monthly activities. Set your goals. Your goals can be anything from connecting with your network and letting them know you are looking to how many interviews you want secure. Your strategy should also include getting out there and connecting with people in person.
4. Write or update your resume - updating your resume will help you get in the job search mode. Write your resume yourself, you can and should have someone look at it and make recommendations if needed. In the end your resume should contain your voice and reflect your background and skills in such a way to highlight the attributes you have that an employer would be looking for in employee.
5. Time - determine how much time you will spend each day looking for a job. Schedule yourself to take time to work on the plan you build during step 3. If you do not, you could run the risk of dragging your job search out far too long. If you plan to seek full-time employment, your job search should be full-time effort.
6. Improve your job search skills - practice your interviewing skills. Have someone conduct practice interviews with you. The Internet is full of good sample interview questions that you might be asked. Getting in a Little practice before the real think will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed when it's for real.
7. Update or create your social media presence - Social Media and Social Networking is here to stay. Embrace it. create or update your profiles on Linkedin at a minimum. If you have a Facebook profile update that to let your network know you are looking for a job. Your social network can be your biggest asset in your job search. You might want to consider creating a blog or writing articles about subjects in your industry. Getting the word out about you is a key step.
8. Follow up - follow up on every job lead, social connection and interview. Sometimes it is the person who does a good job of following up that usually stays top-of-mind when it comes to offer time. Don't be afraid to ask about your status in the hiring process. Also stay in touch with your contacts, keep them apprised of your status.
9. Eat right, exercise and get some sleep - enough can not be said about taking care of your body and mind during this process. Maintaining a high level of energy and fitness will help you present yourself at your best.  Nothing turns an employer off more than someone who comes in for an interview that has a low energy level and looks like they need some sleep.
10. Stay positive - the challenges of finding a job in a tough economy can take a toll on your Psyche, staying positive will put you in a winner's frame of mind that can make the difference in getting an offer or not.

For more info: If you need advice on how to use networking event opportunities as part of your job search post your question on the "Ask The Career Coach" section of Talent Evolution I would be happy to give you my best answers!