Many times, we work with students who are just starting their job search. Their anxiety and frustration is evident. “I know I need to start my job search,” they inevitably say, “but I don’t know where to start.”
It is always hard to know where to look. Especially since there are so many options and you may not know exactly where you want to go or what you want to do. Here are 8 places to help you get started.
1. Your career center. We’re trained to help you start your search. And, more often than not, we know where alumni have gone. We may even have databases and subscribe to resources that you may not have direct access to.
2. Google. No kidding. Surely you have heard of a few companies or places in your field you can look up. If not, ask your professors PRONTO. Then, search away! Many times places will list employment opportunities on their website.
3. LinkedIn. You never know who knows someone who knows someone else. LinkedIn can help you track those connections and find ways to get introduced. This will expand your network and provide great opportunities.
4. Twitter. Hashtags can be annoying to read BUT they make great search tools. You can hashtag states, fields, job titles, or even company names to see what people are saying. And you can follow people and companies to see what they are saying.
5. Facebook. Employers don’t say that Facebook is their biggest recruitment tool, but it is a way to track what different companies are saying. And again, you never know who knows who among your friends!
6. Job Fairs. I’ve never met anyone who is totally stoked about job fairs and loves going to them. But they are a great way to meet other people, share your resume, and exchange contact information.
7. Field specific search engines. Many fields have designated search engines just for them. For example, colleges often use higheredjobs.com to post their job openings. You can also get similar results through a professional organization in your field.
8. Temp Agencies and State Workforce Offices. It may seem counter-intuitive to go for temporary jobs but you may be in a position to try something new while using your skills and you can get your name out to a variety of companies. State Workforce Offices also have job postings that aren’t always available to the public.
ALBRIGHT ELCDC 