Learn about proven job search methods and
how a multiple approach job search strategy can
increase your chances of landing a rewarding position. Read on to
learn more or attend one of our Job Search Seminars.
University Career Services
Take advantage of the many employment resources
available through the University Career Services as your first
step in your job search.
Networking
By far, networking is the number one
method of obtaining a permanent position. Networking is NOT
asking for jobs, but rather connecting with people you already
know, to get information and additonal contacts, to lead you to
"where the jobs are". Click here to learn
more about this very important job search strategy.
Answering Ads
Whether you are answering classified ads
from the Internet, newspaper or trade magazines, it is critical
that you do not spend all of your time only on these methods.
When you are answering an ad for a position, you are competing with
hundreds of other candidates.
In reading ads, don't be afraid to take a chance on some jobs
where you feel you may be under qualified or over qualified.
Companies will always advertise for the ideal candidate, but you
really do not know what they have in mind. If you impress them with
an excellent interview you could be considered for an entirely
different job; or you could be called back weeks later for a new
opening.
Internet
The Internet is an
important part of your job search, but it should not be your only
job search method. Try to be as broad as possible in your
search, reviewing several industries and categories. This
strategy will give you a better picture of the opportunities
available in your field.
Newspapers
You begin by studying the entire
classified section, looking at every category listing and analyzing
the sort of jobs that are open in each career field. Come away with
an overview of the entire job market and see where your field of
interest fits into the total picture.
Target Search
Target mailing is not mass mailing 100's
of resumes. It's choosing a select group of companies, thoroughly
researching
and introducing yourself to them.
Call each company and get the names of two people, the human
resources director and the head of the department that interests
you most. Make sure you have the correct spelling of their names
and titles. Write a separate letter to each person enclosing your
resume.
The letter to human resources should relate to the organization
as a whole and specify the skills and experience you will bring to
them. The letter to the department head should concern that
department's specific functions and what your contribution would
be.
Close your letter with a statement such as "I will take the
liberty of calling you within the next week to ten days to
hopefully set up an interview at your convenience". Follow up with
a call at the specified time to try to arrange for an interview and
find out if there are any immediate openings. If there are no
openings, follow up again in 2-3 months with either another letter
or phone call.
Agencies/Search Firms
Good companies with good jobs use
agencies because they do not have the time to plow through hundreds
of resumes. Pick out three or four agencies and put them on your
agenda. If you are not satisfied with the reception you receive,
try three or four others. Follow up with them on a weekly
basis.