We are regularly asked by candidates for thoughts on what they should do to get started on their job search. Here is a quick list of things you should think about:

• Your resume. Get the resume polished up. Read it. Re-read it. Know it backwards and forwards. Think about what you did in each position and know how those skills apply to any future job. Understand how an employer will view your resume and be able to explain any gaps. If you are unsure about how your resume looks or how to present your skills, consider seeking advice from others in the industry or a professional resume reviewer.

• Your resume (again). Proofread your resume. Make sure your telephone number is correct. Make sure things are spelled correctly. Make sure the dates are right. I can’t stress enough how important it is that your resume s flawless.

• Your “online” presence. Make sure your LinkedIn profile tracks (exactly) with your resume. Clean up any online posts that are not appropriate for a job seeker. Try to limit the amount of “charged” content that can be easily found (political, religious, conspiracy theories, etc.). Additionally, this is a great time to check and make sure that you have a working personal email account that you will check regularly. Don’t use your work email for job searching.

• Your transcripts. It seems crazy, but employers still care about your law school grades. Get a copy of your transcript (even if it is an unofficial transcript downloaded from the school’s website). Having a copy of your undergraduate transcript isn’t a bad idea, either.

• Your references. Start talking to your references EARLY in the process. First off, make sure that they will serve as a reference for you and (and this is important) ASK THEM WHAT THEY WOULD SAY ABOUT YOU if they were asked by a potential employer. Don’t leave it to chance. Know what they are going to highlight. Ask if there was anything in your past that needed improvement that they would mention. The other reason you want to talk to your references early in the process is that they are your champions: they are the ones most likely to assist you if they hear of an opportunity. Letting them know you are looking can only help you.

• Your penmanship. Get ready to send a lot of thank you cards. Send one to anyone who helps you (in any way) with your job search. Go buy some thank you cards in bulk.

• Your caffeine tolerance. Once you have everything pulled together, it’s time to start networking and having coffees with those you trust. Get ready to use your spare time to network and plan on picking up the tab at the coffee shops!