Job Search Tips & Strategies

Looking for a new job is a job in itself.  Most professionals in the employment field will suggest that whenever possible you should put 30-40 hours a week into your search.  The time should be split between making new contacts, researching, sending out resumes and cover letters, and following up on leads.

First Step, Know What You Are Looking For: Self-assessment is the process of exploring and identifying your career direction.  Career counselors can help you determine what career fields truly interest you.  Through a discussion of your relevant job skills, goals, and work values, you will be better equipped to develop a targeted search strategy.  Be sure to attend our "Job Search Strategies" Career Workshops.

Get Organized: Use a book or a database, to keep track of all your contacts, dates and leads.  This should be revised every day and whenever a contact is made.  Indicate whom you spoke to, their address, phone and email address along with their department and job title.  Make note of the position you applied for, the exact job title, and location of the ad.  Be sure you list each contact date, so you will have a reminder of when you made contact.  A brief description of the business should be included.

Do Your Research: It is essential to know as much as possible about the organization you are applying to.  Begin on line, with news, magazine or journal articles.  Check employer web sites, annual reports, and other publications for company information. Talk to professors and professionals in your field of interest, try to set up "informational interviews" to get specific information from practitioners.  The more you know about a specific industry the more you will be able to narrow your search.  In a tight job market, it helps to be more directed than "too open" about your job options.  Use the Career Development Office to look at a variety of job search books and employer directories.  The Career Resource Center has guidebooks covering a range of careers from Environmental Science to Photography. Use the public library business directories and indexes such as Hoover's or Standard and Poor's Guides.  Remember, there are thousands of companies that are not in the "Fortune 500"; this is the biggest growth segment in the job market.  You will learn more and move ahead faster in many small companies.

Network, Network, Network: This refers to the process of developing and maintaining contacts.  Approximately 60% of job searchers find jobs through their network of contacts.  Family, friends, professors, and acquaintances are the first source in any job search.  As you contact professionals they should become part of the network you create, and continue to develop.  Classified ads, the Internet and cold calling are not necessarily the most effective way to search, though these options should be an avenue of exploration. See our Networking Strategies page for further tips.
 
Trade and Professional Associations: Associations are a great resource for job seekers in a specific field of work.  As a member you should go to meetings, and begin to network with a variety of professionals in you field of interest.  On-line lists such as the one on www.weddles.com are a place to start.  As a student membership fees are much lower, join while you are still in school.  Volunteering for special events puts you in the view of professionals who may be hiring, so join and get involved!

Targeted Mailings: Focused mailings can be a successful method of attracting attention for an employer that you have researched and feel would be a good fit for you.  By sending a specifically tailored cover letter and resume that allows the potential employer to see your strengths, and understanding of the organization, the possibility of an interview will increase.  Address all correspondence to an individual rather than "To whom it may concern."  By using a name you will have a follow-up contact for the future.  Mass mailings are the LEAST effective way to search for a job, be specific!
 
Job Fairs: They are organized by news agencies, school districts, hospital organizations or other business organizations all over the country.  Representatives from corporate Human Resource departments, or specific divisions of the company are in attendance to take resumes and answer brief questions.  They may have a brief on the spot interview schedule.  Before you go you should:
· Bring a supply of resumes and cover letters with an overview of your goals.
· Dress professionally - wear a suit and comfortable shoes, you will be on your feet all day.
· Prepare a "one-minute commercial" about your strengths, goals and where you want to work in their company.
· Prepare to discuss what you like doing, what you are looking for in a job, what your most relevant skills are.
· Network while you are on line with other, find out about other opportunities, and get business cards from everyone you meet.
· Be enthusiastic - don't be overwhelmed by the volume of people you meet and explore new options! 
Take a look at the current list of career fairs www.sunycdo.org or www.careerfairs.com also see our Special Events listings.

Internet Job Search: The Internet is the way to explore quickly and receive up to date information.  Keep in mind that as a research tool the Internet is invaluable, but you are not the only one looking at a specific job listing.  If you choose to send a resume on line, be sure to keep track of what you send, when and where; follow-up with a phone call if possible.

Classified Ads: Newspaper ads are listed by category and you should familiarize yourself with all of the titles your field of interest my fall under.  The Occupational Outlook Handbook, or Dictionary of Occupational Titles can help you figure out what titles to search for.  Read ads carefully.  If you feel you have 80% of the skills required in the job description, then go for the job.  If you have some experience, but not quite what is asked for, though you have all of the skills required, go for it.  The employer will make the decision if you are an appropriate candidate; you just want to get your foot in the door. 
www.nytimes.com -NY Times job listings
www.thejournalnews.com - The Journal News, Westchester job listings

The average college graduate will change jobs at least six times in his or her working life.  Having the ability to move ahead and change is a skill that will grow stronger each time you go through the process.