Things to Consider as You Move Forward with Your Job/Internship Search

Try using CAREERlink in other ways than just looking for available positions. Use it to build your target list by searching for companies by industry and city, or to get names of hiring managers at companies you are interested in. Don’t forget that there are other career networks such as CareerBuilder, Monster, and HotJobs. Check them out and post your resume. Just remember where you post it (you don’t want your boss finding it five years from now and getting the wrong idea). Also keep in mind that privacy (or lack there of) could be an issue. Don’t include your address and home phone number—e-mail and cell number should suffice.

Spend extra time tapping into the hidden job market. You are now competing with more people for the advertised jobs. So think of ways to find the unadvertised jobs—this means building your network. Ask friends, friends’ friends, friends’ parents, parents’ friends, professors, alumni, career advisors—you get the point—if they know anyone who does what you are interested in. Finding the contacts is not the hard part…that hard part is actually doing something about it once you find them.

If you are a senior, consider applying for an internship—it could buy you more time to look for a job. It could also help you get your feet wet if you have never actually done anything related to field you want to work in. After the summer, they may just hire you full time!

As you continue with your job search remember to stay organized. Keep track of the companies you apply to, the materials you send them, and approaching deadlines. Also keep in mind that just because you applied doesn’t mean your work is done. If you have not heard back from the company contact the hiring manager. Don’t let an opportunity slip by because of disorganization or laziness.

Keep up the hard work!