Effective Job Search Strategies: An Overview
Step 1 – Conduct a self-assessment and identify your:
Skills and abilities Interests Values Experience Strengths and limitations
Step 2 – Explore your career options:
Research careers that meet your interests, skills, and values Conduct informational interviews and do some networking Take advantage of Career Partners to gather information Obtain career-related experience through: related employment, related volunteer work, internships, pre-professional organizations Visit the Office of Career Development to speak with a counselor
Step 3 – Set your career goals:
Clarify and be able to articulate what kind(s) of position(s) you prefer, what kind(s) of organization(s) you would like to work in and where you want to be geographically Determine if additional education is needed to meet your goals Develop your job search plan and consider devising back-up plans as well
Step 4 – Develop and conduct your job search campaign:
Have your resume and cover letter critiqued Participate in a mock interview Join professional organizations and community groups Think like an employer in your field and ask yourself, “How do they meet their hiring needs?” Network with family, friends, professors, past employers, and neighbors Research organizations in your field Utilize the Office of Career Development web site for job listings Send resumes and cover letters to target employers Attend job fairs and participate in recruiting events Read the newspaper classifieds Interview with organizations of interest to you and send thank you notes Consider a temporary assignment or contract work Consider “stepping-stone” jobs Consider graduate school or additional training in your field Track your activity carefully
Step 5 – Rate your job offers:
Understand that rejection is part of the process Consider negotiating your start date, salary or benefits Accept an offer that is best for you The ethical path is to stop interviewing once you have accepted an offer
