What Gear Do You Need for Your Career Expedition?
The Job Search Process is not just about sending out cover letters and resumes; it takes time, planning, and organization. The following 14 items are covered in Work Search, a course that Sterling students complete during their first year. This order is not set in stone and there will be some steps that change or overlap.
- FINANCIAL
PREPARATION (Backpack
packed and fitted correctly.)
A job search is a job. The average job search takes 2-4 months, and could take up to two years. Make sure you can meet financial obligations during this time. Create a budget and determine how financially prepared you are for a four-month job search. - CAREER
GOALS (Have
your map, know your entry point, have a planned route, and destination.)
Having a direction is critical to any job search. Think about your current career goals, as well as career goals five years down the road. Put your goals in writing. - NETWORKING (Water
is needed throughout your expedition; it keeps you alive, moving, and
you can never have too much of it.)
Your network will be essential to your job search. 7 out of 10 jobs are discovered through networking. Create and expand your network; this is where you will discover opportunities in the hidden job market. Business cards are great networking tools, there are websites and programs where you can create free ones. - INFORMATIONAL
INTERVIEWS (The
first awkward mile, when you are learning about your surroundings and
whether or not you may like this expedition.)
Interview someone currently working in the field to screen careers, jobs, and places you may work and to discover opportunities in the hidden job market. - PROFESSIONAL GRATITUDE
Write a thank-you note to those who grant you time for an informational interview, job leads, or connect you to their network. - RESUME
With the information you have, you can begin to craft your resume. - FINDING THE
SCOOP
Research the organization to make your resume and cover letter stand out from others. - COVER LETTER
Create a letter introducing yourself and share how you will help the future of the organization. - REFERENCE LIST
Find people who can speak about your level of skills and your work ethic. Ask for letters of recommendation. - FINDING THE INSIDE SCOOP
Research the organization in detail to make yourself stand out from other applicants during the interview stage. - HIRING
INTERVIEW
Present yourself in hopes of getting hired for the work you have decided you would like to do. - PROFESSIONAL GRATITUDE
Write a thank-you note to those who spent time with you during the interview process. - SECOND INTERVIEW
Learn more about potential responsibilities and discuss job benefits. - JOB OFFER
Discuss and negotiate a salary and benefits that you are comfortable with.