Job Search Methods
It is best to learn how to utilize a variety of job search methods and integrate them into your overall job search plan. The most effective job searches incorporate three to six different techniques at the same time. If you have questions about your search, visit CDES to meet with a counselor.
RATED AS THE MOST EFFECTIVE JOB SEARCH METHODS:
Career Development and Employment Services (CDES)
| What: | CDES is full of great resources and knowledgeable, friendly counselors. You can get help with resumes, interviewing, setting up a job search plan, networking strategies, or reviewing information on companies and industries. And yes, we have access to job search resources. |
| Tip: | Check out the websites of career centers at colleges in the geographical area where you are job searching. This can get you access to local and regional job resources. |
| Resource: | Career Development and Employment Services |
Networking
| What: | Getting people you know to help you in your job search (professors, co-workers, friends at other colleges or who are already working in the U.S.). You should have a resume to give to each contact. |
| Tip: | Start with the four F’s - family, friends, former supervisors, and faculty. |
Information Interviewing
| What: | An interview with someone working in the career field you hope to enter. Ask general questions about the work they do, how they got to their position, and other related questions. A polite phone call or letter requesting a short (30 minutes or less) amount of time will usually get you a meeting. Use your network to identify and connect with potential people. |
| Tip: | Prepare a written list of questions – see samples on page 15. Never ask directly for a job or job leads - your purpose is to learn about the career and expand your network. |
| Resource: | Information Interviewing, by Martha Stoodley, in the CDES Library. |
The Internet
| What: | Job boards in specific fields are better than “one size fits all” sites. Riley Guide, JobWeb, and Quintessential Careers provide good resources on job searching, employer information, salaries, and job outlook. Use to research employers to understand the company. WetFeet.com has profiles of thousands of firms. |
| Tip: | Make your search general at the beginning and then narrow it from there. Review a wide range of sites and pick out the best ones for you. |