Your Successful Job Search

Finding a job can be overwhelming! In order to have a successful job search, you should take one step at a time.

1. Not sure what you can do what your newly earned degree? Take some time to do some career exploration. Perform some additional research on careers most common for your major.

2. Prior to beginning your successful job search, you will need to write your resume. Your resume should be a detailed guide to your individual skills and experience.

3. Set realistic goals and parameters depending on your skills and experience, as well as your needs. Are you looking for an entry-level position? Are you willing to relocate? Are work hours important? Need insurance and benefits? Want a growing company? Want to work for a industry leader? Make an "ideal job list" and then mark everything on the list that is negotiable or a deal-breaker. You will have to compromise, but start by knowing what you value and what you want in a job.

4. Perform a job search by using online job search engines, employment agencies, newspapers, job boards, your college career center, company websites, and professional organizations. Sample sites include:

www.monster.com

www.careerbuilder.com

www.ajb.org (America's Job Bank)

5. Perform a targeted job search by locating companies that you wish to work for and sending a letter of inquiry. Seek out people who work for the company through your alumni association, friends, family, and colleagues. Request informal meetings to learn more about the company. Make your desire to work for the company known and be willing to accept a different/entry-level position to get your foot in the door.

6. Networking has become the most successful way to find a job. Talk to people about your job search. Ask for suggestions, information, and contacts. Expand your network to include your network's network! Someone knows of the perfect job opening for you and if you don't ask, you may miss it. Attend formal networking events through professional organizations, chambers of commerce, and your school.

7. Getting a job interview may be considered the easy part. It is the job interview that will ultimately get you the job or get you the 'regret to inform you' letter. Make sure you do your homework and prepare for your job interview.

8. Do not attempt to negotiate or discuss salary, benefits, bonuses, or any other company perks unless you are offered the job. Once you have a job offer, review your "ideal job list" to determine if the terms of employment are acceptable. If your soon to be employer indicates that salary is non-negotiatable, you still may beable to negogiate vacation time, a 90 day performance and salary review, or other perks.