Conducting a Job Search
Successful job searches consist of both an online and an offline approach. Outlined below are the steps you should take to help find what you're looking for. Follow the links at the bottom to get to job search websites!
Network
Employers hire people they know and people who are recommended to them. Introduce yourself, talk to people, ask questions, and share your knowledge as often as possible. You need to actively pursue opportunities to meet the right people and connect professionally. To find the "hidden" job market, focus on building a network of contacts including: professors, colleagues, advisors, friends, relatives, former employers and other professionals. You should begin building your professional network NOW by: attending business events, joining professional associations related to your field of study, doing internships, and meeting people any way you can!
Research
Look up company profiles online, learn about industry trends, find out which employers are hiring, and discover what they are looking for in a potential employee. This information will help any job seeker to decide what opportunities are a good fit and successfully enable them to market their talents as they relate to the specific employer's needs in the industry. Knowledge is power.
Review Job Postings
Read job postings very carefully. The job description will describe what the employer is seeking in an ideal candidate. Don't be discouraged from applying if you don't have everything the employer is looking for, chances are, you have plenty of other skills and talents that will help you stand out. Additionally, reviewing different job postings for similar positions will give you the industry specific vocabulaty to include in your resume and cover letter. Follow the "how to apply" instructions precisely!
Prepare Application Materials and Follow-Up
Make sure your resume is up-to-date and targeted to the job you are applying for. Always accompany your resume with a cover letter. After you send your documents do a friendly follow-up email or phone call after a week or so.
Job Search Links
Websites for Occupational & Company Research
National Jobs
Local Jobs (VT)
Work-Study Jobs
Major-Specific Jobs
Job Search Made Easy - Online Seminar
Graphic Design work for the Senior Art Show created by Craig Winslow