An effective job search requires effort, patience, and a focused approach for favorable
results. After deciding what career field to target, research employment opportunities
and identify employers who meet your needs and expectations and whose specific job
requirements for the role you could satisfy. It’s important to develop practical self-marketing
and networking strategies by analyzing your talents, past work experience, accomplishments,
and applicable skills. Before you apply for a job, collect facts about the company
and the position you are seeking, including a job description outlining duties and
qualifications. Consider other related employment issues such as the salary range,
benefits, advancement potential, location, work hours, and work environment. A compatible
work environment is directly related to job satisfaction and should be regarded by
an individual as one of the primary contributing factors into one’s sense of purpose
and accomplishment. Evaluate whether you would need additional education or training
to increase your employability and value in the eyes of the employer. Note that volunteer
experience and especially internships provide an excellent way to acquire job skills,
gain experience, develop a professional network, build your resume, and to get hired
permanently. Finally, use all available resources to identify which career opportunities
to target in your job search, including online job banks, government and corporate
websites, as well as professional associations.
Maximize your efforts by applying the following job search tools:
- Prepare a resume that promotes your talents, abilities, experience, and education.
Identify qualifications you possess and communicate your strengths to an employer.
Convey any activities you participated in that exhibit your ability to work well on
team projects and juggle multiple responsibilities competently. Offer concrete evidence
of your position-related accomplishments. Your resume serves as a summary of your
training and qualifications. It should be concise and accompanied by a cover letter,
introducing you to the potential employer and expressing your interest in a specific
position.
- Develop effective interview skills to convince the employer of your qualifications
for the position. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the latest interviewing techniques.
Send a follow up letter after each interview. Thank the interviewer for the time and
consideration and reiterate your interest in the position and in the employer.
- Expand and strengthen your network by initiating personal and professional contacts.
Ask Program staff for suggestions. The GCC Job Placement Center provides current job listings and acts as a liaison between job seekers and employers.
- Stay organized and disciplined, keep accurate records, maintain a positive attitude
- success can be achieved.
The Career Center is dedicated to assisting you in all your career development and
job search needs. Take advantage of the services offered. Attend Career Center workshops
conducted by career counselors throughout the academic year and learn how to create
a professional resume, write a compelling cover letter, prepare yourself for a job
interview, secure an internship, and much more: /students/student-services/career-center/classes-workshops/-fsiteid-1
