Conducting a Job Search

Step 1: Know Yourself
A. Interests: what do you enjoy doing when you have a free afternoon? What are your hobbies? What types of books do you enjoy reading? Often, you can incorporate your interests into a career field or industry.

B. Personality: People generally enjoy working around people who are similiar to them. Think about your personality and the people you like to be around

C. Skill: What are you good at? What classes have you excelled in? What skills do you want to use in your work setting? Most of us want in an environment where we are using skills we are good at.

D. Work Values: What you value in a work situation can mean the difference between loveing your place of employment and hating it. If your values clash with the organization's mission, you are probably in the wrong work setting.

Step 2: Get Prepared
A. Research companies and organizations you are interested in.
B. Join associations and groups to connect with peers in the field or industry.
C. Network with peers, faculty, friends, and family.
D. Develop a resume and cover letter.
E. Prepare for the job interview.

Step 3: Get Started
A. Contact key people in the companies or organizations for whom you want to work.
B. Check out Web sites.
C. Send out your resume and cover letter for target positions.
D. Follow up with a telephone call.
E. After an interview, send a thank you letter.

Career Services can help you work through all three steps! Call 977-2828 to schedule an appointment with a career counselor.