Job Hunting

In finding a job, it is often WHO YOU KNOW as much as what you know -PERSONAL CONTACT is critical.
Employers appreciate referrals from people they know - the known almost always gets more attention than the unknown.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP! Everywhere you go, you meet people in interesting jobs and careers who may have good advice for you.
For detailed advice on effective networking, see our Networking page.

Know the type of job you want and the type you do not want - but be flexible.
Be able to articulate what you want - people can’t help you if you don’t convey what you want.
Prepare 10-second and 30-second commercials about yourself.

Use the Internet for everything from Annual Reports to chat rooms about industries, fields, companies, not-for-profit organizations and governmental agencies.
Follow up with your own career planning, with informational interviews and more targeted research to learn more about the fields and jobs that interest you.
Think about how you will provide “value” to these employers.

WHERE ELSE CAN YOU LOOK FOR A JOB?

Focus on transferable skills - skills you have used in one setting that you can apply to the employer’s needs.
Know why YOU should be the one hired - make a case for yourself by citing specific experiences and conveying a sense of commitment.

Emphasize the skills you have that will matter to this employer, and then use your accomplishments, whether in jobs, internships, athletic teams, student organizations or course work, to support your presentation.
Focus also on core competencies: communication skills, organizational and interpersonal skills, critical thinking, creativity, leadership and teamwork, and technical skills. These matter to all employers.
Convey a professional image - proofread very carefully and use an appropriate email account title and voicemail greeting in the contact information you provide.
For detailed advice on preparing an effective resume, see our Resumes page.

Target the right individual - do your homework to find out the name and title of the person who does the hiring, or will provide the information you seek.
Project energy, enthusiasm, confidence and familiarity with the employer.
Again, convey a professional image - proofread very carefully and use an appropriate email account title and voicemail greeting in the contact information you provide.
PROJECT A POSITIVE ATTITUDE
Be willing to learn, and tell all potential employers this.
Be willing to start on a trial basis, or even to volunteer, as a way to get your foot in the door.
Be willing to start as a temp - it may become permanent.
Be organized and keep a log of people and organizations you contact.
Keep your references up to date on your progress so that they are ready to provide a recommendation for you (faculty, former employers, supervisors or co-workers, coaches, club advisors, etc.)
Send a thank you note to everyone who helps you.

REMAIN PROACTIVE - CYBERSEARCHING WON’T DO IT - MEET PEOPLE - WIDEN YOUR NETWORK - CALL US OR COME IN FOR HELP.