By Diane Crump-Fogle, '87 M.A.
Associate Director, Career Development and Placement
Do you know how to conduct a job search? The thought of graduating and entering the world of work can be very overwhelming, especially in today's uncertain job market. Your job search strategies will need to be very aggressive and thorough.
Having a definite plan is the key. Below are some job search tips that will be useful in developing a successful plan of action. When job searching in today's market, you will need to take as many different approaches to your job search as possible.
The Career Development Center (CDC) located in room 204 of the Math Psychology Building can help with every facet of your job search. If you need assistance, or have questions about how to get started, just stop by or call x52216 to set up an appointment to meet with an advisor.
Job Search Tips
Conduct a Self-Assessment:
First, you must identify your strengths, interests, values and skills. The SIG+ Career Exploration Program available in the Career Development Center can be helpful here. You must be able to highlight your strengths and interests at the interview and on paper (resumes, letters, etc.).
Gather all of your documents:
Some of the job search materials you will need are a resume that's been critiqued by a career specialist, cover letter, reference letters (three to four) and a list people who can be contacted by employers for reference checks. You will also need a copy of your college transcript. You may even be asked to provide writing samples or a portfolio. Check with a career specialist in CDC for additional information on portfolios.
Start the Application Process:
Identify places where you can locate job listings. Take a look at the job books in CDC. We receive thousands of announcements yearly; register for our on-campus interviewing program, where you will have an opportunity to meet and interview with employers right in the Career Center. Attend workshops and seminars where employers are visiting campus. Approach them after the session, and discuss career opportunities. Check the various job search Web sites linked to the CDC Web site. Use the various employer directories in the CDC Career Resource Center (MP 212) to identify and research employers who are hiring in your major and send a personalized letter of application and resume. Follow this up with a phone call.
Don't forget about the want ads; major newspapers throughout the U.S. can be located on the Career Path Web site. You can also try employment agencies that are "employer fee paid." CDC has a directory listing various agencies and you can also identify them from the newspaper and phonebooks.
Consider Government employment. Several government agencies are hiring now. CDC has a list of lots of government job opportunities and will also sponsor a Government Employment seminar on Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 1-3 p.m. in UC 312. There are several helpful resources available in the Career Resource Center, and don't forget to check the government employment links on our Web site.
Networking:
One recent survey reported that as much as seventy-five percent of job-seekers found their jobs through networking. It is important to reestablish contact with everyone you know. Dedicate some time to making some new contacts. Considering joining professional and trade associations relevant to your field of interest. CDC has a directory to help you identify these organizations and you can also ask professionals in your field where they have memberships. In addition, several job fairs are sponsored through out the year, where you can meet employers and discuss career opportunities. Check the CDC Web site for the dates.
Conduct informational interviews to gain information about your area of interest, network with professionals, and learn about entry level opportunities. Attend professional meetings and seminars, collect business cards, and keep in touch with those you've met. Many professional groups also have online newsgroups and mailing lists that could be helpful.
Get Experience before you Graduate:
One of the smartest things you can do to make yourself marketable upon graduation is to gain experience in your field of study before you graduate -- and try to have more than one. This experience will go a long on your resume. Yes, volunteer experiences also counts. And the value of giving back to your community can not be overemphasized.
Learn Good Interviewing Skills:
Often, the decision whether or not to hire you is based only on one or two short meetings; so, your first impression must be a lasting one. CDC conducts mock interviews, holds workshops and seminars and lots of information on interviewing techniques.
Finally, when job searching, it is important to stay focused on your strengths and when communicating with employers, voice how your skills match what they are looking for. In short, stay focused.
Broaden your horizons and investigate options in related fields and industries. Be flexible (with the salary requirements also) and stay positive.
