It’s that time of year again- you’re either basking in the glory of your recent job offer or you are sending out cover letters and resumes like your life depends on it. If that frantic scramble is what you’re dealing with, we have some tips and tricks for ways to snatch up that dream summer job or internship. Whether you are looking for a part time retail gig or a full time future career, you just need to know where to look and how to make yourself into the best candidate you can be!
To Start:
1.) Polish your resume. By now most of us have a resume in the works, but it is important that it is PERFECT when you are applying for a position you really want to land. Make sure the format is professional and clear, but still shows some creativity and enthusiasm. This is the main thing employers will be looking at when your application hits their desk! Check out the Career Center for help.
2.) Perfect your cover letters. Be clear, concise, and personal. Try to avoid sounding too generic- companies want to hear your personality shine through so they can get a taste of how you would fit into their workplace. Don’t forget to keep it short and to the point; no one has time to read through your life story!
3.) Watch your tone. When you are hitting send on an email to a possible employer, read and RE-read each word. When you quickly jot something down, you might not notice if it sounds informal or rude, but it’s really important to check! Leave your “btw” and “ttyl” at the door… it’s time to sound like the professional woman you are!
Next:
1.) NETWORK. You are used to hearing the old adage, “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” but you will really start to understand this once you’re job hunting. Reach out to everyone you have ever crossed paths with: old bosses, fellow interns, friends, friends’ moms… you get the point. Start sending those emails!
2.) Search! If you are looking for a retail job- get out there and hit the pavement! Go to your local mall and walk into every store, ONE of them will need summer employment. Go prepared with your resume in-hand, you never know when you will need it!
3.) Surf! When your walking shoes get worn down, surf the web. There are tons of great job-hunting resources online and they have new postings ever single day. If you are diligent and constantly on the lookout, something is sure to turn up.
The job hunt can be one of the most stressful processes for a college girl to deal with, so just remember that everything will fall into place eventually!