Job-Hunting Tips

Life after college can be rough; as someone who has already experienced life post undergrad, I can attest to this. Especially when it comes to job hunting, it’s hard not to feel discouraged after receiving your college degree and not being able to land a job. So, I’m here to share some advice/helpful tips on how to navigate job hunting to ensure you have something lined up by graduation.

• Set-up informational interviews with folks that are in roles that you might be interested in. Sometimes that might mean a mentor or colleague reaching out on your behalf to connect with someone. Or you may need to take it upon yourself to email said person. Be sure to introduce yourself, give a quick overview of why you are reaching out, and thank the person for taking the time to consider your request to chat.
• If you have not created a LinkedIn account already, do so ASAP! You can set filters on your profile by location, job type, and interests so you receive internship/job alert updates. Additionally, you can follow companies that you are potentially interested in working at.
• Create a resume that has relevant job experience that caters to the position you are applying for. Also, include any student leadership roles that you might have count as experience!
• Make sure your cover letter addresses the position you are applying for and has relevant work examples that tie into the position description. No one wants to reread something that is already on your resume.
• Practice your interview skills with someone who will ask relevant questions and provide you with honest feedback.
• Remember that not every job you apply for will lead to an interview or even a callback. I know it can be difficult to experience constant rejection, but it’s completely ok and normal. Don’t give up, the right job opportunity will come along.
• If you land an interview, be sure to send a follow-up thank you email and or written card to the person/persons you interviewed with.
• In terms of references, be sure to check-in with them before you list them as an official reference in a job application. Also, let them know what job you’re applying for and where.
• Lastly, UW has a Career and Internship Center equipped with Career Coaches who are available to provide you support you on resume building, cover letters and more. They also coordinate/host numerous career fairs throughout the academic year.

With that said, I hope you find these tips helpful and that they guide you on your job search. Good luck out there, Huskies! Oh, and one final side note, have someone PROOF READ your resume and cover letter before submitting!

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