Job seeking can be a challenging process. Learning more about search strategies and application techniques can help. Review the job search tips below and consider utilizing them in your pursuit of suitable and fulfilling employment opportunities.
Networking: Build, cultivate, and utilize your network of contacts
For many jobseekers, possessing a large network of contacts and associates results in more job leads. Therefore, networking, in person and online, is essential to your success in your job search. After all, hiring managers would prefer to interview people who came recommended before sorting through the resumes arriving via a career website. Don't be afraid to reach out to people on LinkedIn. If you know someone, personally, who is working for a company that interests you, ask for a referral.
Don't limit yourself to online applications
Contact companies that interest you directly - you might contact an internal recruiter or schedule an informational interview with people who work in those companies.
Managing Communication
Unprofessional communication can sabotage your chances before you even make it to the interview.
Your voicemail is clear and professional (also make sure it is not full).
Get back to recruiters quickly, preferably within 24 hours.
Have a professional email address. Before sending out or replying to emails, go through the text for grammatical and spelling errors.
Finding job leads
Do not rely on online job boards!
Social Media
A well-managed social presence can serve as personal branding and help improve your chances of obtaining a job. Creating and keeping a well-maintained social media page can help show your skills, dedication, and online competency. Students should know that an employer may search your social media presence for clues about who you are. To prepare yourself for such searches, you have two options:
Aim to complete a few job-related goals daily
It takes a great deal of time and effort to find a new job. Focusing on achieving realistic relevant daily goals can motivate you and help you prioritize your time and energy. Have a plan, write down your goals, and consider sharing your plan with someone that can keep you accountable.
Things you should know in the job application process
Companies often use applicant tracking software (ATS) to recruit and screen applicants for employment. Make sure your resume includes qualifications that the job description asks for otherwise you may be screened out.
Be aware that employers often use pre-employment tests. The types of tests and selection procedures utilized include talent assessment tests, cognitive tests, personality tests, medical examinations, credit checks, and background checks.
Be prepared with the information needed to apply for the position
Gather any information you may need before you begin the application process. Normally, applications require a complete job history for at least the past 10 years which would include employment dates, job title(s), job duties, salary information, employer address/phone number, supervisor name, and educational background. Failure to complete all sections on an application may lead to your application not moving forward.
Important information please read
Job searching can be an incredibly stressful time for an individual. With the rise in identity theft and the ever-present cybersecurity issues it is important for all students to avoid job seeker scams. The information shared below should help arm you to become a savvy and sophisticated job seeker who is able to stop scams a mile away!
Common types of job seeker scams and college disclaimers
Phishing:
Phishing emails start off claiming that they have seen your resume on the Internet, note that your skills match the requirements for their job, and invite you to complete an online job application. The e-mail may state that it is in response to the resume you submitted for a job opening. Beware, it may be a cold-contact e-mail from a business or person that doesn’t even know you. Did you apply for a job with this organization? Did you send a resume to this recruiter? Proceed with caution.
Job Offer / Posting and Check Cashing Scam
These scams involve the posting of what appears to be a very legitimate job opportunity posted through a reputable web site like monster.com, careerbuilder.com, etc. The postings appear to be legitimate job openings, but after submitting a resume, applicants are then asked to send checks or money orders to continue the application process. In some cases, applicants are "hired" and then asked to handle a monetary transaction between the employer and a buyer or supplier as a "job task." Students should be aware of these types of scams and should know that no legitimate employer will ask for an applicant to send money or handle a monetary transaction as part of the application process or to use their personal accounts to conduct company business.
Some tips to keep in mind: