Job Search
Whether it’s your first job or the latest of many, you’re likely to send out many résumés and go through numerous interviews before getting a job. A typical job search can take several weeks or even months to finish successfully.
There are four main strategies that go into a successful job search. The Career and Professional Development staff can help you with each strategy!
Get Experience, Develop Skills
All employers are seeking candidates with related experience and skills they need! Get experience through student employment, summer jobs, volunteering, class projects, practicums and internships. Build your skillset, applicable to your career fields of interest! Learn more at Handshake.
Make Connections With the Right People
Talking up your internship or job search is so important! Make contact with people in fields of interest — former supervisors, professionals where you would love to work and alumni in career fields of interest. Tell them who you are, what you’ve been doing so far and what you hope to pursue. Ask for advice, leads and guidance!
Discover Where to Find Opportunities
Central students and alumni can access Handshake, a powerful online system that allows you to search for openings, upload and submit resumes to employers and browse employer profiles.
To get started, request a Handshake account.
Questions to Consider for Your Job Search:
- Who are key employers who are seeking someone with your skills and experience?
- What are the key industries in locations where you would like to work?
- Where are jobs posted in your field?
- What are some of the targeted websites where you can find entry-level positions?
- Who are your best networking contacts?
- What professional associations are out there for you?
- What events should you be attending to find out about jobs?
Apply and Interview Effectively
You’re going to need résumés and cover letters that are tailored to each position! And once you land interviews, you’ll want to interview with confidence based on a clear understanding of the job, company and your related skills and experience!
By the time you’re a junior, you’ll want to attend the Career Center’s Professional Development Series to enlist the above strategies.
Good luck with your job search! While the process can seem daunting and discouraging, it’s also a time of great reward and satisfaction — especially when you get that job offer!
