KEYS TO A SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH

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True or False

If there are several applicants for one position, the person with the best qualifications generally

gets the job offer.

2

True or False

The Human Resources Office does all the hiring and firing, so that’s the first place to

contact if you are looking for a job.

3

True or False

The most effective way to get job interviews is the old adage, “See a guy who knows a guy,” A

technique known as “Networking.”

4

True or False

It is important to include every job you ever held when writing a resume.

5

True or False

A job interview is really a sales presentation by the applicant. Therefore, the job seeker must sell his or her personality, potential, strengths, and experience.

6

True or False

Approximately 2% of job seekers are successful in obtaining an interview when responding to a blind ad.

7

True or False

The job application is considered a tool of the employer, while the resume is considered a tool of

the job seeker.

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Before you start knocking on doors, you’ll want to prepare for your search.

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1. Self Assessment

2. Explore Career Options

3. Research Employers

4. Prepare Job Search Materials

A self assessment will help you identify what you are looking for in a job.

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You should be able to:

Describe what you want to do

Match your skills, values, and interests to career fields and job titles

Research your career fields

Researching Employers can help you learn about the organization and determine your place in it.

1. Make a list of preferred employers to target

2. Learn more about the employers by researching

3. Consider conducting informational interviews

Newspapers Fellow Professionals Competitors Internet TechConnect

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Employer Websites Networking

Opportunities Job Related Search

Engines Annual Reports Trade Associations

Prepare Job Search Materials

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Prepare an effective resume and cover letter – getting a job is SALES!

1 page accomplishments based resume Proof-read!

Practice interviewing Review practice questions before going to an

interview

Purchase appropriate interview apparel

Focus on the employer’s needs

Top 10 Job Search Survival Tips13

1. Consider Volunteering2. Consider Temping3. Eat Right, Sleep and Exercise4. Join a Professional Association 5. Timing6. Emotional Support7. Use the Career Center 8. Network Intelligently9. Turn off your computer10. Give yourself a Break

#1- Consider Volunteering14

Volunteering with help build your network of local professionals

It also may provide experience in your field. For example: A marketing student may help plan and advertise for a fundraising event

#2 - Consider Temping 15

Working for a Temporary Agency has many benefits:

Get your foot in the door of a good organization

“Try before you buy” – You are able to try out an organization without much of a commitment

Get valuable professional work experience

Meet professionals working in your field

Earn a few dollars during your job search

#3 - Eat Right, Sleep and Exercise

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You will be more alert mentally, if you take care of your physical health

Take advantage of the nice weather – get outside and enjoy it!

#4 - Join a Professional Association17

Professional Associations provide: Journals

Provide up to date information about your field (great for interviews)

Highlight the ‘movers and shakers’ in your field Provide connections to professional development

and conferences

Access to member information – great for networking!

Job Listing services Great resume builders Local Chapters

#5 - Timing18

Good jobs don’t stay open long- act immediately if you are interested in a position

#6 - Emotional Support19

Looking for a job can be a stressful endeavor

Rely on your family and friends for support

#7 - Use the Career Center20

Use the Career Center in person or online

Individual appointments to assist with your job search strategies are available

Check out university job placement office for the latest job search news, job listings, workshops, networking opportunities and links to area employers

#8 - Network Intelligently21

Networking is not just about asking someone for a

job

Develop contacts and build long term

relationships

Most jobs come through people who know you

and your skills Tell everyone you know that you are looking and

what you are looking for

Networking 30-49%Direct contact with Decision-Makers

19-37%Published Job Openings 15-24%All others 1-16%

#9 - Turn off your computer22

The internet provides a massive amount of information, however it does not replace valuable personal interaction

Use your computer as one of many tools necessary for a successful job search, not the only tool for your job search

Most people find jobs through other people, not via the internet

For each hour you spend online, try to match it with one hour of phone calls and personal interaction

#10 - Give yourself a break23

Don’t be too hard on yourself. A job search can be a difficult task.

Don’t try to compare yourself to others, the job you decide to take has to be right for you.

Your goal is multiple job offers!

You have the most control when you have choice

You have no decisions to make until someone makes you an offer

Pursue every option until you get an offer

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