How to Search for a Job

Where do you start?

1. Establish Career Goals/Objectives
   • What do you want to do, where is your interest?
   • What steps do you need to take to achieve what you want?
   • What resources are available to help?
   • Who do you need to know?
     JOBTRAK: Job Search Tips
2. Address the pre-requisites for your search
   • What are the formal education and work experience requirements?
   • Do you have an effective resume completed?
     http://www.collegerecruiter.com/
     • Can you interview effectively? Are you prepared for behavioral interviewing?
   • http://www.collegegrad.com/intv/index.shtml
3. Do your homework/research to evaluate:
   • The Labor Market
     • Where are the opportunities? (Small & Medium sized organizations).
     • Where is the market headed?
     • What industry area will you choose? Why?
     • Where do you find information?
       http://www.bls.gov/home.htm
   • Prospective Employers
     • What are the prospects for job openings?
     • Are you acquainted with an employee?
     • What does the future look like for the company and you, relative to your career goals?
     • What are the opportunities for advancement?
     • What do you know about the company, and what do you need to know?
     • What community or other resources are available to help you find the information or make the contacts you desire?
   • Employment acceptance considerations
     • Organization size
     • Location
     • Salary - entry level and potential
     • Benefits - medical, retirement, education, etc.
     • Job security
     • Potential for advancement
     • Work schedule - hours, shift, etc.
     • Training available/required/provided
     • Travel requirements
     • Other employer/position requirements

What Now?

1. Utilize your knowledge of your goals and research of the market to narrow your search to the industry area and employers you want to consider.
2. Identify the number and specific employers you want to personally contact, or correspond with in some way.
   • Who do you know or can meet in the organization?
   • Give your resume to the hiring authority or someone inside who can.

What Is An Effective Way to Get the Job You Want?

1. Build and foster professional relationships (Network)
   • Identify and develop a professional relationship with individuals in your field who may assist you in your career goals. Build relationships in service, professional and civic settings where people are out of the office. This networking skill will also help you in promotions, career changes, etc.
2. Utilize all of the resources to help you build and expand a network
   • UVSC resources - Career & Student Employment, faculty, advisors, etc.
   • Professional associations - affiliations can start with a student membership; be an active participant.
   • Publications of companies/industries - can provide useful information and possible contacts for personal interaction.
   • Religious organizations, church leaders, members.
   • Family, neighbors, friends, etc.

How do You Contact Employers?

1. Apply for specific jobs in your field at the companies you have identified when openings occur. Carefully follow any instructions or guidelines in applying.
2. Job development - market yourself and your skills to employers you choose. Utilize your network for leads, referrals, references.
3. Utilize Career & Student Employment and other available resources in the community, campus recruiting, career fairs, etc.
4. UV Job Board
5. Research on line resources
   http://www.collegerecruiter.com/
   http://www.collegejobboard.com/
   http://www.college.wsj.com/
   http://www.careerbuilder.com/
   http://monster.com

What Information Should You Submit to Employers?

1. Provide a resume showing accomplishments and any other information they specifically request.
2. Utilize and demonstrate knowledge of industry, company, position in correspondence and interviews.
3. Identify and communicate skills that may be transferable to the position.
4. Send a follow-up letter of interest after an interview or contact.