The first step in searching for a job is to know what you’re looking for. That means setting goals and gaining focus. You can do that by:
- Researching career paths
- Scheduling an appointment through Handshake with a career advisor to identify strategies best suited to your interests
Once you start searching you want to:
- Respond to posted and publicized opportunities
- Research and contact potential employers directly
- Establish and utilize a network of professionals, friends, family, faculty and alumni
- Stay organized and find a way to track what you have applied to, network connections, etc.
Resumes and Cover Letters
Our website has everything to help you with your job search, from resumé examples to cover letter guides, portfolio development to interview prep. You should also consider scheduling an appointment with a career advisor for help with your search. Be sure to bring a copy of your resumé and/or cover letter with you to your appointment.
When to Start Your Job Search
Timelines vary by industry and employer. Know your industry and understand that, realistically, the job search can take many months. You should always be researching employers, holding informational interviews and networking! There is information in each of our career communities about typical hiring timelines by industry.
Interviewing
When it’s time to interview with prospective employers, preparation and practice are key! Check out our Interviewing Prep guide, Pre-Interview Worksheet, Interview prep page and resources and tools like Quinncia, Glassdoor, and a variety of Vault Guides on interviews by industry through Firsthand.
Receiving and Accepting an Offer
Career advisors are available to assist you with strategies related to salary negotiation and the job offer process. Our Negotiate an Offer page gives tips and tricks to get beyond the initial job offer, and think beyond just salary.
Our Outcomes Dashboard can also provide you with salary information regarding the type of job you are looking for.
You should never accept and then later renege on an offer. You can, however, ask for the appropriate amount of time to collect information and make this important decision.
