Preparation is the key to a successful job search, and the preparation phase includes finding vacancies that you’re interested in applying for, doing your homework by learning as much as you can about each position and community, preparing your resume and cover letter, and selecting and contacting professional references. This document is an excerpt from a larger, more comprehensive work.

The full Job Hunting Handbook for Local Government Professionals is available online as an ICMA member benefit. If you are not a member, this is one of many membership benefits that will advance your career.

To find out more, visit icma.org/membership, call 202-962-3680, or email membership@icma.org.