Two Top Books on Job-Hunting Today

Not everyone can afford a career coach, even one with reasonable fees. Not everyone needs a career coach – some folks just need to learn current best practices in job hunting. Enter Steve Dalton, author of two books I often recommend to prospective clients: The Job Closer and The 2-Hour Job Search.

For no more than 26 dollars, you can buy both and get science-based advice from an expert who is the former director of career services for Duke University's Fuqua School of Business. You'll spend even less if you buy the Kindle versions or used copies.

Steve gives very specific instructions for how to network to find a job. Networking is the most effective job-seeking strategy, far outweighing the importance of a perfect resume or Linkedin profile. (So watch how you use your time.)

I’ve read a lot of career and job-hunting books, and I'm very picky. These are the ones I recommend to anyone looking for a white-collar job, whether it’s a social-impact job or not. And even if you do work with a career coach, these are good companions.

Start with The Job Closer. Then read The 2-Hour Job Search — make sure it’s the second edition from 2020. I also recommend Steve’s free LinkedIn group: The 2-Hour Job Search & The Job Closer - Q&A Forum.  If you search on the web, you’ll also find instructional videos and webinars featuring Steve.