|
 |
Overview
After you have defined your career
interests and developed a realistic understanding about the job market for
your proposed field, your attention should be focused on generating a list
of potential employers. Unfortunately, you cannot hang a "Rollins
Graduate" shingle on your door and just wait for the offers to
magically appear. You must actively search for opportunities and leads.
This will be a time-consuming endeavor; however, the time you invest will
reap benefits for years to come.
To begin, make sure you are prepared with
all relevant job search tools. The following is a list of items you will
need for your job search campaign:
 |
A three ring
notebook to be specifically used for the job search. In your notebook
include: a copy of your network list, copies of all correspondence
(cover letters and follow-up letters) sent to prospective employers, a
page for notes on each phone conversation with an employer and/or
interview |
|
A calendar
for quick reference of important dates including: interviews, dates
when you expect to hear back from employers, career programs, etc. |
|
Directories
of employers by city or occupation |
|
A supply of
professional stationary for resumes, cover letters, and follow-up
letters |
|
Stamps |
|
An
appropriate email address and a professional voice mail message |
|
A
well-tailored suit or appropriate clothes for interviews, including a
good pair of shoes |
When it comes to the job search, many
students prefer to take a "reactive" approach; they will respond
to job postings and advertisements but will not take initiative in
identifying potential job leads. If you employ this strategy and do not
attempt to personally identify employers with whom you would like to work,
you are limiting your success. You are encouraged to be more
"proactive" in your search. A proactive job seeker will generate
many more leads and will, more likely, be able to secure a position
congruent with his/her career goals.
Employers use many methods to hire for
various positions. For some positions, employers may advertise in the
newspaper, professional magazines, and on college campuses. Other
positions are listed internally first so that current employees have the
first bid. Often employers will call associates and friends to request
recommendations and referrals.
If you are entering a competitive field,
you will find that job leads will be more difficult to identify. Positions
in art, advertising, journalism, creative writing, conservation,
recreation, personnel and media will be limited. This is not meant to
discourage you from pursuing one of these occupations, but to demonstrate
the importance of understanding the job market and preparing a job search
plan appropriate to your field.
|
|
|
|
