Don’t let the Job Search Scare You – Spooktakular tips to get started!
Searching for a job can feel overwhelming for any student, but it doesn’t have to be! Knowing what steps to take and how to execute them can minimize the nerve-wracking aspects of a job hunt. The Internship and Career Center (ICC) has tools to help every student with their search. We recognize each student is unique and career paths vary broadly. With that in mind, here are five easy steps to get your student started on their path.
Step 1: Ask initial clarifying questions
Students can ask themselves, “What kind of job am I looking for?” Is it an internship, student employment, international, or career-track position? Second, they can ask, “What requirements do I have of this job?” Priorities can include the chance to break into an industry or field of interest, opportunities for advancement, flexible schedule, working alone or in teams, location/remote work, health care coverage, and more. Considering these and other important factors can help your student find a job that fits short- and long-term needs and goals.
Step 2: Build a Resume
A comprehensive resume is a snapshot of the writer, showcasing skills and education, along with career related activities, such as volunteer work, internships, engagement with professional organizations or student clubs, leadership positions, international travel, and military service. The ICC’s most requested resource tool is our Career Resource Manuel (CRM), which will help your student start on their resume and cover letter. It also includes career and professional development tips, from the beginning stages of exploration through the internship and job search process.
Step 3: Networking
Networking can be one of the most important steps in your student’s career development. Many career opportunities come from networking, so students are encouraged to continue to build professional relationships throughout their time as a student. This is often the last thing students want to do, so your encouragement can go a long way! They can create a LinkedIn profile, connect with alumni, and talk with employers. The ICC offers many events and several career fairs each year to connect students with employers and alumni.
Step 4: Search for Opportunities
Handshake is an online job board that UC Davis students and alumni use to find jobs and internships. Employers and professors around campus post positions on Handshake every day. Encourage your student to browse through job postings weekly, and use filters in order to learn more about different organizations and the minimum qualifications for their desired positions. In addition to Handshake, ask your student to explore other job boards and/or attend an Internship and Career Center (ICC) workshop to learn about other ways to find internships and jobs.
Step 5: Build resilience for the job search
We know the job search can be scary, and that feeling is perfectly normal. Being reflective before and during the process, proactively utilizing available resources, and seeking support throughout the process will help your student navigate the job search scaries!