As you embark on your job search there are many resources who can help you along the way. Consult them continually throughout your journey.

Utilize Your University’s Career Center

University Career Centers can be so helpful as you embark on your professional job search. Each one has different offerings and ways to help. I advise you to make an appointment to learn about their offerings and choose to participate in the opportunities that are right for you. Some of these may include helping you determine which type of job is right for you through career counseling, help with resumes and interviewing, information on career fairs, help connecting with local employers, opportunities for employment and internships, and help with skill building.

Career Fairs

Universities regularly host career fairs on campus, and most communities hold them as well. Attend as many as you can. Challenge yourself to speak with as many recruiters as possible. I advise students to start attending career fairs before they are officially looking for a job. Understanding how to navigate a career fair and learning to speak with recruiters are necessary skills that you can improve upon before you need employment. Once you need a job, it is much harder to build these skills. Allowing yourself the time and space to explore and develop new skills when you aren’t stressed makes it easier to learn and personal growth will come more naturally.

Online Job Search Sites

Job search sites no longer simply list job openings, they offer opportunities to build skills, create a network, connect with employers, house your resume, let potential employers know you are open to work, and much more. We will address job search sites again in the upcoming chapters, but it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with a few different ones and their offerings.

Sites I recommend you explore are indeed.com, linkedin.com, monster.com, careerbuilder.com, and Handshake; but there are many, many others.

Personal Contacts

Personal contacts are often referred to as your network when used for assistance in your job search. This is topic we will explore in depth in an upcoming chapter, but there is no question that the network you create will be one of your best resources as you embark on your professional job search.

Reach out to your personal contacts and talk about your career aspirations. Learn about their career journeys and ask for advice. The more you talk to the people around you about career topics the more you will learn, and the sooner you start learning the better.