Winter quarter has everyone in a frenzy searching for a job or an internship they can secure for the summer. Speaking from personal experience, I know how arduous of a task this can be, so I’m here to offer seven helpful tips that you should keep in mind during your search:
- Tailor your resume to the job
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I know. Sounds tedious, but it’s important that you adjust your resume for each job you apply to. Even if all of the positions you’re applying to are in the same field, an employer may be wanting a specific set of skills. Oftentimes, job postings will lay out exactly what they’re looking for. Use that as a way to craft the perfect resume.
- Job searches are productive
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Sending in 10 to 20 applications feels like an exhausting effort for something you may never benefit from. But remember that job searches are productive, and submitting an application is an accomplishment. Sure, you may not get the job, but each rejection is one step closer to an acceptance. Putting in your best effort is never a waste, and there’s always something to learn from the process.
Via GIPHY - It’s normal to get rejected
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Of course, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t suck to get rejected. But remember that this is completely normal, especially if this is your first time looking for a job or internship related to your field. Remember that you’re going in with a little less experience, so don’t take your first rejection like it’s the end of the world.
- Reach out to Your references ahead of time
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A lot of employers will ask for references, colleagues, mentors and professors who are familiar with your work and can attest to you as a worker or student. Make sure that you reach out to your references ahead of time so that they’re prepared in case an employer does contact them.
- Be proactive
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Don’t be afraid to follow up on an application you sent in (unless the job posting says not to do this). Following up demonstrates confidence and interest in the position you applied for. Another way to be proactive in your search is to cold message a hiring manager for available positions. You’ll be seen as an initiator, and really, the worst thing that can happen is you don’t get a response.
Adult Swim, The Eric Andre Show, via GIPHY - take advantage of your college’s resources
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Take advantage of the Career Center. There are so many resources, workshops and presentations right at your fingertips. You can also schedule appointments to arrange a meeting with a career counselor. Another great resource is Handshake, which is a platform like LinkedIn, but it has job and internship postings specific to college students.
- One closed door opens another
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Getting rejection after rejection feels disheartening, but it’s part of the process. Don’t give up because each application gets you one step closer to finding employment. And who knows? You might get something that’s even better than what you initially wanted.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to grind out those applications. Just remember to take care of yourself mentally and emotionally, and don’t get too obsessive over the job search. There’s so much more to life.