Job-Search Strategies

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Studies have shown that the most effective job search strategy for any field is networking.

To network effectively, or use any job search strategy successfully, you must first be able to define what you want. If you can name the type of position, work setting, and organizational culture you’re targeting, your job search strategies will be focused and your contacts will be able to share information relevant to your goal.

Research effective strategies in your chosen field by talking with career consultants and listening to advice from professionals. Designate specific times during the week to devote to your search. Your goal is to access opportunities and tailor your resume and cover letter for each. You also want to be visible to employers who rely heavily on networking sites to find candidates.

Strategies

Consider the following strategies in your search:

Optimize your Handshake Profile

  • Add a current professional headshot to your profile, or have someone take a picture of you in professional attire against a neutral background.
  • Populate “My Journey” with a networking introduction.
    On the left column, populate your interests using the pencil editing icon. Cities are optional and may limit the results you see when you search for jobs or internships.
  • Populate your roles and industries with two to five options if possible. Begin typing to see an automatic drop-down list and select the best fits.
  • Scroll to select skills, or manually add any not provided. Include skills that may set you apart, such as computer programs, certifications, languages, etc.
  • Upload your resume, based on the samples on our Resume Development page. Check your profile settings to make sure employers can view it when you’re ready.

Schedule an appointment with a career consultant to discuss making the most of these strategies.

Conduct an Ethical Job Search

Based on guidelines from the National Association of Colleges and Employers’ Principles for Professional Conduct Committee:

  • Provide accurate information about your academic record, experiences, and other credentials.
  • Interview only with employers you’re sincerely interested in working for and whose eligibility requirements you meet.
  • Appear for interviews, on campus and elsewhere, unless unforeseeable events prevent you from doing so. If you can’t make the interview because of an unforeseeable event, notify the employer immediately and understand that they may not be able to accommodate requests for another meeting. Career Center Interview No-Show Policy
  • Communicate your acceptance or refusal of a job offer to employers as soon as possible, so they can notify other candidates. If you need time beyond their stated deadline, let them know and see if that can be arranged.
  • When you accept an offer, be ready to honor your commitment. Accepting an offer only as a precautionary measure is misleading to the employer, as it may restrict opportunities for others interested in that employer, and/or damage your reputation with employers.
  • Withdraw from the job search when you accept a job. Notify other employers who are actively considering you that you are no longer available.
  • If an employer agreed to reimburse you for expenses incurred in the recruiting process, submit only legitimate, reasonable expenses.

Additional Resources for Your Job Search