Job Search Strategies

Job Search Strategies

As in writing a resume, there is no one “right” way to search for an internship or job.  A variety of strategies should be used.  Keep in mind that searching for a job, IS a job!  Create a workable schedule, and then stick to it.  It is important to establish a routine.

Set a Schedule

  • Identify a period each day where time can be devoted to the job search
  • Identify a location where you will be productive and not distracted
    • Turn off the phone
    • Avoid using your personal social media
  • Develop a system to keep the information organized
    • Industries you are researching
    • Jobs you are researching
    • Geographic regions you are considering
    • Jobs you have applied for
    • Networking contacts
  • Schedule your time
    • __% Searching for jobs
    • __% Networking (not just on-line, but in person)
      • Career events
      • Local events
      • Join an organization of interest
  • __% Researching industries, careers, jobs
    • Online, (Onetonline.org, Monster.com, Indeed.com, Jobsearch.com, Vault.com)
    • Chamber of Commerce (www.durangobusiness.org)
    • Skyhawks Job Source
    • Professional Organizations

Determine the Type(s) of Job(s) that Interest You

  • Develop a complete list of your previous experiences:
    • Work Experiences—paid or unpaid, summer, part-time, full-time, etc.
    • Career Related Experiences—Internships, volunteer positions, etc.
    • Extracurricular Experiences or Community Involvement
    • Education Experiences
    • Memberships/Activities
  • Assess your experiences for:
    • Skills Acquired or Developed
    • Knowledge
    • Qualities and/or Characteristics
    • Values (things that are important to you)
    • Interests (what did you like?)

 

  • From these experiences, ask yourself
    • What did I do best? 
    • What did I enjoy the most?
  • Identify at least 5 each, and write a few sentences about these experiences, and why you selected them.
  • You should notice some common themes about what you are good at and what fulfills you.  As you research careers, refer to these experiences to see if they would draw upon the skills you enjoy using the most.

Determine What Type of Organization Interests You

  • Do you want to be part of a small company?
  • Do you want to be part of something larger or with multiple units?
  • Are there organizations whose practices/products you admire?
  • Are you interested in non-profits?
  • Are you interested in government or education?
  • Do not rule out companies who may be laying off—they may be hiring in other disciplines.
  • Are you geographically flexible?

Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter

  • Attend a Resume & Cover Letter Workshop
  • Meet with your Career Services Coordinator for individual review

Making Contact

  • If applying for a posted job, be sure your resume features skills mentioned in the listing
    • Use your cover letter to point out these skills and how you have used them.
    • Know, do not guess, what is required and important.
  • Network with faculty, advisors, friends, family, professionals.  Let them know what you are looking for.  Ask for advice—they may have a contact.
  • Join FLC Alumni Association.

Follow-up

This is critical! Call to be sure your resume was received.  Keep it short.

  • “I am following up on the resume I submitted for (position).”  The employer may explain the next steps in the evaluation process.  If not, ask what the next step is.  Keep it brief and thank them for their time.
  • If you submitted your resume via e-mail, and no phone number was available, send a brief message with the same sentiment—inquiring as to confirming the resume was received and asking about the next step in the process.
  • When granted an interview, be sure to obtain contact information for each individual you encountered.
    • Send an e-mail the same day thanking them and mention a highlight of the conversation.  Reiterate your interest and belief that your skills and experiences have prepared you to excel in the position. 
    • A similar, (not exactly the same) written “Thank you” note should be mailed within 24 hours.

Record Keeping

  • Keep copies of everything you send each employer
    • Record sending of “Thank you’s”
    • Record name of contact
    • Keep position description
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