JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES |
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Three Important Job Search Steps
1. Conduct Self-Assessment: what does the perfect job would look like?
- what appeals and motivates you personally?
- write your own "Top 10 List" of elements in that perfect job
- what is your geographic preference?
- what kind of organization you want to work for (government, higher education, non-profit, etc.)?
- list industries in general or specific companies that you want to work for
- benefits offered
- amount of travel
- any other elements important to you...
*See our Choosing Your Career section of this website. It includes very useful information and resources for self-assessment.
2. Research Potential Employers, Careers, Fields and Job Titles
- Make a list of potential employers who are doing the business you want to do. We recommend setting up a spreadsheet with effective headers. A sample spreadsheet is provided for you in excel and .pdf formats.
- Talk to professionals. Set up information interviews with professionals in the field you are considering.
- See our Job Information by Major page.
- Find a Mentor
3. Build your Job Search Skills
- Networking - when you are in the job market, networking strategies need to become more intense.
- Resume development - a high-quality, effective resume is key.
- Cover letter writing - learn how to write effective cover letters for you resume.
- Interviewing - a great deal depends on good interviewing skills.
- Thank-you letter writing - thank-you letters should be written after every interview.
- Job offer evaluation - learn where to find salary/relocation information.
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When you accept a position report directly to your Career Services counselor or fill out our online graduation survey.
