Job Search: 8 Steps to Success

Job Search Illusions Employers Recruitment Method Job Seekers Strategy Promote internally Looking in ads Identify candidates from networking/contacts Company websites “The job-hunt is easy since all open positions are posted online these days.” Target candidates from select organizations & schools Targeted job search Career fairs and professional organizations Post on company website Talking to contacts and networking Unsolicited applications Ads

Getting Started Step #1: Key is to start NOW! Where are you willing to go? It is up to you to seek out employers Posting a resume and waiting will not get you an interview You must put in time and effort to get a positive return on investment Step #1: Getting Started

Potential sectors and industries Getting Started Geographic targets Types of positions Potential sectors and industries Generate initial list of companies!

Utilizing Our Resources Online Resources Step #2: Utilizing Our Resources

Online Resources Create customized interview Take self-assessment 3000+ questions in database Take self-assessment Um and like counter Send to staff member for review

Penn State Career Fairs/Events Fall & Spring Career Days at UP Annual Events Penn State Career Fairs/Events Fall & Spring Career Days at UP

Utilize Alumni Networking Events There are currently almost 500,000 Penn State Alumni… Utilize them! Connect with the Alumni Association Chapter in the area you’re looking to move Alumni Career Services puts on recent grad networking events to assist you

Understand What You’ve Got! Understand What You’ve Got! What can you offer to an employer? Degree and GPA are just part of the puzzle Internships Campus involvement Athletics Research Volunteer work Other types of community service Develop your “highlight reel” Step #3: Understand What You’ve Got! What you accomplished & how you did it Skills that were developed & used How these things match with the position

Don’t Cut Corners Step #4: Don’t Cut Corners Quality vs. quantity always gets the job Address your materials properly Examine position descriptions Relevant skills desired Transferable skills Software proficiencies Tailoring your documents gets you past the applicant tracking system! Step #4: Don’t Cut Corners Relevant skills Transferable skills

Creating a Great Resume Step #5: Resumes get a 10-20 second glance Clarity and fit are the keys! One full page in length Reverse chronological order Incorporate skills from job description Don’t get fancy Do not rely on a template! Step #5: Give Employers What THEY Want

North/South Glance

2nd Glance 1st Glance

Creating a Cover Letter Paragraph one: purpose of the letter, how you learned about position, why you are interested, why you are qualified Paragraph two: more about your qualifications and skills, beginning with strongest Paragraph three: ask for interview, indicate you will follow up, call attention to resume, thank employer for considering you

Using Social Media Step #6: Profile that gives a positive impression Don’t mix personal and professional Comments and photos should be professional Step #6: Be aware of keywords Choose appropriate contact info Connect with contacts Use Social Media To Your Advantage Keep in touch w/ contacts Join professional organizations

Keep a Positive Attitude! Job Search Length Typical job hunt lasts 15 to 19 weeks Appropriate job takes 6 months to 1 year Many people slow down by month 2 Remember, use several search methods You will have success! Step #8: Keep a Positive Attitude!