Career Handbook
7th Edition
The Job Search
To achieve your goals it is essential to organize a job search campaign. All too often, individuals limit their possibilities by using a "hit or miss" approach. A successful job search includes a variety of strategies. Because hiring procedures vary by career fields, you need to tailor your campaign to the specific methods used in your field. Job hunting is a process which requires your full commitment. You have invested thousands of hours to get your degree. Now is the time to increase your chances of getting the job you really want by making a similar investment in your job search.
Getting Started: Tools for the Job Search
- Self Assessment
- By completing the self assessment exercises, you will understand what you have to offer to a prospective employer. The more you know about your interests, skills, values, goals, and personal qualities, the greater your opportunities are for finding a suitable position.
- Market Conditions
- Know what jobs and positions there are and how your skills translate to the work world. Consider how you can adapt your skills and needs to the available positions. Learn More About Careers
Research Skills- You will need to use your research skills to identify job openings through contacts, directories, and other resources.
- Your Resume
- A resume is a critical tool in your job search. It is a summary of your qualifications and experience and gives an employer enough information to elicit further interest in you as a potential employee. Learn More About Resume Writing
- Letter Writing
- Employers expect college students to have good verbal and written communication skills. Concise, well written letters are essential in every phase of your job search, starting with the cover letter transmitting your resume and requesting an interview and including your thank-you letter for the interview and/or offer of employment. Learn More About Letter Writing
- Interviewing Skills
- Good verbal skills are critical. The interview is your opportunity to convince an employer to hire you. It is also your opportunity to find out if what you want fits with what the employer needs. Preparation and practice are key to presenting yourself successfully in an interview. Learn More About Interviewing
