Step 04Job Search BasicsStarter
How to Organize Your Job Search
Treat your search like a project: set a weekly rhythm, track every application in one place, and spend your energy on the openings that fit best.
7 min read →
The StepMark playbook
Career guides
Every guide is free, practical, and written in plain language. Filter by career step or browse them all.
Step 04
Step 03Resumes & ApplicationsStarter
How to Write a Resume, Step by Step
Build a clear, one-to-two-page resume from scratch: the sections to include, how to write strong bullet points, and how to tailor it for each opening.
8 min read →
Step 05InterviewsBuilding
Common Interview Questions and How to Prepare
Answer the questions you're most likely to hear with clear, specific stories, using the STAR method and a simple practice routine.
8 min read →
Step 01Explore CareersStarter
How to Explore Career Paths That Fit You
A practical, five-step method for turning a vague sense of 'I want something different' into a short list of careers worth testing.
7 min read →
Step 02Skills & TrainingStarter
Free and Low-Cost Ways to Build Job Skills
Libraries, community colleges, workforce programs, online courses, and volunteer projects: where to learn new skills without spending much, and how to prove what you learned.
7 min read →
Step 01Explore CareersStarter
Skilled Trades: A Plain-Language Overview
What electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, plumbers, and other trades actually do, how people get trained, and how to tell if hands-on work suits you.
7 min read →
Step 03Resumes & ApplicationsBuilding
Cover Letters That Get Read
A simple four-paragraph structure for a short, specific cover letter, with examples you can adapt and the mistakes to avoid.
6 min read →
Step 02Skills & TrainingBuilding
Certificates vs. Degrees: How to Decide
A side-by-side look at short certificates, certifications, associate degrees, and bachelor's degrees, plus five questions to help you choose the right credential for your goal.
7 min read →
Step 04Job Search BasicsStarter
Networking for People Who Hate Networking
A low-pressure approach to building professional relationships: start with people you know, ask for advice instead of jobs, and follow up in small, genuine ways.
7 min read →
Step 05InterviewsStarter
Video Interview Tips: Set Up, Show Up, Stand Out
Everything to check before a video or recorded interview, from camera angle and lighting to sound, backup plans, and how to make a connection through a screen.
6 min read →
Step 06Growing at WorkBuilding
Your First 90 Days in a New Job
A practical 30-60-90 day approach to starting a new role: learn the basics, build relationships, ask for feedback, and set yourself up to grow.
7 min read →
Step 06Growing at WorkAdvancing
How to Ask for a Raise or Promotion
Build your case with evidence, research typical pay for your role, choose the right moment, and plan the conversation, including what to do if the answer is 'not yet.'
7 min read →