Finding and Applying for Jobs

Job Campaign Flier

Job-seekers have a huge range of resources at their disposal, of which the well-known mega-posting sites are only a small fraction. When conducting your job search, don't do yourself a disservice by only using the major job banks; extend your search to include job postings from sources that are smaller and more specialized. See our comprehensive list of Internet job posting sites, both large and small. Also make sure to set up an account with ILink, which is a database of job and internship postings as well as a space you can store your résumé online for perusal by select recruiters.

 

Writing a strong résumé, developing a cover letter, and polishing your interviewing skills are key in your job or internship search. Make sure you take the time to edit your writing, and accustom yourself to being interviewed.

 

Students wishing to learn more about working in a particular field would do well to set up an informational interview, in which they can sit down and talk with a professional in that field, asking those burning questions and developing a clearer idea of the exact nature of the work. A combination of information-gathering, interview practice, and networking, these discussions can be invaluable.

 

If you have an upcoming interview you are nervous about, be sure to check out our tips for successful interviewing . Also, if you would like to hone your interview skills before the big day, stop by The Career Center and schedule a mock interview (we recommend you schedule this at least three days in advance before you want the Mock Interview). In this videotaped session, you will be questioned in realistic interview conditions by one of our interview specialists, who will then provide you with detailed feedback and tips for improvement. We also offer mock phone interviews.

 

You are welcome to attend our upcoming workshops, such as Successful Interviewing, Fast Track Your Job Search, Career Fairs, Researching Organizations and other helpful classes where attendees can further sharpen these critical skills.

 

Job Families are groups of occupations based upon work performed, skills, education, training, and credentials. Look at different job families and occupations on the O*Net Occupational Information Network.

 

Industry knowledge and contacts gained through networking are also important in a job search and in the interview process. Take the time to research organizations and employers, and become a more competitive job candidate.

 

Another way to improve your chances of landing a job is to become a student member of a Professional Organization: a nonprofit dedicated to informing and serving a certain profession. For example, Human Resources Training Professionals often join the American Society of Training & Development, and thereby gain access to a whole new level of networking and information about vacancies. Take a look at this directory of professional organizations to get a sense of the variety of specialized professions.