Why Your Job Search Isn’t As Daunting As You Think

The beginning of a journey can be scary. Although you may have an idea of where you want to work or what you want to do, the number of possibilities can be overwhelming. When beginning your job search, it’s important to take things one step at a time.

First, think about what you want out of a job. What sort of company culture would suit you best? Are you okay with working after-hours on occasion? If so, under what circumstances? What is the maximum amount of time you are willing to commute?  What about salary requirements, or work-from-home versus in-office days?  

After thinking about these questions, create three lists: a list of negotiables, non-negotiables, and preferred details.  This way, you can more quickly sort through job descriptions based on if the company/role fits your expectations.  

Next, start thinking about who you know. Networking is one of the most effective ways to learn about job opportunities. Think about previous co-workers, teachers, former classmates, friends, acquaintances – anybody who you feel comfortable discussing your professional life with.

According to John Link, Director of Webster’s Career Planning and Development Center,“Networking plays a pivotal role in executing a successful job search strategy. By nurturing professional relationships and engaging in meaningful conversations, job seekers can confidently navigate their search and unveil pathways to their desired careers.”

Anytime you meet somebody, you are building your network. Do your best to stay in touch with contacts who may be of value to you in the future. Friend them on LinkedIn, connect with them through your alumni chapter, and if you feel especially close, send them a personal message every so often. The effort will show that you genuinely value the relationship, and make you memorable during your job search.  

You can continue to expand your professional network by attending networking events or career fairs. Google “networking events” and include the name of your city. Many places, especially universities, regularly hold career fairs for job-seekers to connect with employers. At Webster, career fairs are held regularly - with the next undergraduate career fair being held Thursday, September 28.  

Other local organizations like Venture Café host regular networking evenings for professionals to continually expand “who they know.” 

If you’re going to a networking event, consider having personal business cards made. This way, you can easily give people a way to connect with you in the future. Your business cards should at the very least include your name, phone number, and email address – but you could also include your current title, LinkedIn URL, or online portfolio URL. 

If it feels appropriate based on your circumstances, post on LinkedIn that you are looking for a new position. Be sure to include details about what sort of role you are looking for, such as the industry and your desired location. 

In addition to networking, think about where you’ve previously worked. Did you complete any internships that you really liked? Reach out to your former supervisor and see if they are hiring soon. Maybe you worked somewhere and liked it, but that exact organization wasn’t a perfect fit. Take a look at that organization’s competitors – see if they’re hiring. If you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.  

Have you volunteered anywhere that hires full-time employees in your field? Is there a place or an organization that has made a big impact on your life? Maybe they’re hiring – and you could apply to help make that same impact for others.

Also, think about working at your alma mater! As an alumnus of the institution, you are a more desirable candidate than applicants who graduated elsewhere. Additionally, those who work at their alma mater report higher job satisfaction as they directly understand how their work contributes toward the student experience.  

Don’t be afraid to reach out cold turkey to businesses that aren’t currently hiring. Sometimes companies may be hiring, but haven’t formally posted an opening yet. Sending a letter which expresses interest in any upcoming open positions (along with your resume and portfolio, of course) makes you stand out from other applicants – and shows your level of interest in the organization itself.  

There’s no one right way to go about a job search, but by outlining your requirements for a job, making your network work for you, and pinpointing which sorts of organizations you are passionate about, you will be well on your way to your next adventure.