Whether you are a graduating senior searching for a job or just looking for the perfect internship or summer job, you might be feeling lost and overwhelmed. Instead of pulling your hair out in frustration, try these steps to help you get through the difficult process.
Preparation
“The most difficult part of a job search is ensuring that you are clear on what you want to do for a living,” said Kyle Kiser ‘06 in an e-mail interview.
According to Alan Mueller, director of The Career Development Center, a great way to start is through “career deconstruction.”
Find your dream job and then research it: read books and websites. Find someone who is working in your dream job. Talk to them, ask to see their resume, find out how they got there, and what the job is really like. Find the major that will help prepare you for the job you want.
“Try to pick up some hard skills,” said Carl Simon ‘07. “Take practical classes while at Guilford.”
One of the most important facets of preparation is hands-on experience.
“Employers operate in the skills-based world,” said Mueller. “Employers are very tuned-in to what skills you have.”
This is where internships and volunteer experience really factor in. Find opportunities to develop the skills potential employers are going to want from you.
The Search
Use Google to search for job openings.
“Search engines are definitely the way to go,” said senior Jillian Farnham, who has applied for over 20 jobs.
Type in the job you want and see what comes up. Use job search websites such as Careerbuilder.com. Visit the CDC and use their resources as well.
“Do not be afraid to e-mail or call people you know in the field (to find open positions),” said Simon.
Networking is also helpful. Knowing someone already in the field or company will help when it comes time to apply.
“It is not common for a person to get hired from applying online or blindly sending a resume,” said Kiser. “Use any and every network contact that you have available to you.”
A less well-known, but no less useful form of networking is informational networking. Start by finding someone in the career you want. Call and ask to meet with them so you can learn more about their job and the industry.
“The good thing about informational networking and interviewing is you are getting your name out and you are connecting with people who are doing what you want to do,” said Career Coordinator and Advisor Teresa Fitzgerald.
The Application
The majority of job applications require both a cover letter and resume. Search out free templates online when drafting yours or visit the CDC for personalized feedback.
“Cover letters are different for every (job application),” said Farnham. “People have to show why they are interested, not just how they are qualified.”
When writing a resume, it’s often best to place relevant experience first and then other experience, letting the employer know your best qualifications at first glance.
If you get an interview, one of the best things you can do is to relax. Give a strong handshake, maintain eye contact, and answer thoughtfully to all questions. Think about answers to common questions beforehand, especially the “tell me about yourself” question. Ask questions about the company as well.
“A person in a management position will be far more impressed that you are asking thoughtful, relevant questions than they would be if you memorized their stock price or the CEO of the company,” said Kiser.
Make sure to send a thank you card after the interview.
“One thank you card could make the difference between you and the next four candidates,” said Mueller.
The Decision
Once you’ve gone through the application and interview process, be sure to talk to mentors on how they have dealt with rejection. It will help you know how to bounce back if the answer is no.
If you are accepted, you should do more research.
“Extensively research the company and have a few questions to show them you are serious,” said Farnham.
Once you decide on a job, differentiate yourself from your coworkers by building skills they may not have, such as computer or language skills.
If you are rejected do not let it get to you. For every one person accepted, there are dozens who are rejected. This is why you have to apply to more than one place.
“I found that people who did not get discouraged, who were confident and positive were more successful,” said Simon.