Did you know it takes 6 to 9 months to find a job? That means you should start your search the semester BEFORE you graduate. May graduates should start applying and interviewing on campus in September and December graduates should start their search in February. These tips can help you land that first job!
Your first stop, the Michelin Career Center
- ClemsonJobLink has a wide variety of job listings and interview opportunities
- On-Campus Interviews: Employers recruit heavily at Clemson. Routinely check the campus interview schedule through ClemsonJobLink.
- Career fairs can be an effective and efficient use of your time and give you an opportunity to meet face-to-face with organizations that are hiring. Take resumes and prepare an introduction of your skills and interest in the organization. Here on campus we have career fairs once every semester.
- Take advantage of the services provided in your career center such as resume/cover critiques, mock interviews, workshops, career fairs and on-campus interviews.
Where are open positions posted in your field?
- Internet job boards like monster.com and careerbuilder.com: Use them as a resource to find open positions, but don’t rely on them as your only job search tool.
- Newspaper classified ads are one of the most commonly used job search methods. However, the smart job seeker will see the classifieds as more than job openings. They can be an indicator of growing organizations and local economy.
Where is your dream job?
- Preferred Employers: Select 10-25 companies that you are interested in. Research these companies, visit their facilities, identify and talk to employees of that organization, write letters of inquiry, send a resume and know where you might fit in that particular company.
- Cold Calls: Call or email your list of preferred employers. Ask how frequently they have vacancies and how to apply for those vacancies.
- Cross-check your preferred employers with the Employer listings in ClemsonJobLink.
- Government jobs are often overlooked. To find opportunities within federal government, go to http:www.usajobs.opm.gov/. To find other government opportunities, do an Internet search for your area; for example utilize Google and search for State, Jobs, South Carolina to access the South Carolina State Government Jobs http://www.state.sc.us/jobs/
Networking, Networking, Networking
- Informational Interviews are one of the best ways to gather career information and to get your name, resume and face in front of a potential employer. Schedule appointments to meet with professionals and ask them about their careers.
- Network with family, friends, alumni, neighbors, church/synagogue members, professors, advisors, co-workers, etc. Be sure to tell each person your qualifications and what type of work you are seeking.
- Find a Mentor, a professional who is recognized and respected as a leader in your field, who may provide you with job search advice and alert you to vacancies.
- Professional organizations are the ideal place to research opportunities in your industry. Look for local, state or national association (even student branches on campus!). Students typically receive a discounted student membership rate. Check the organization website for job listings and get involved in conferences and networking events.
Who else can help you?
- Employment agencies, sometimes referred to as “Headhunters” or “Third Party Recruiters”, can provide a wealth of employment information. Do not hire any agency that requires YOU to pay a fee.
- Job Service, which was once called the unemployment office, is now called Onestop in the state of South Carolina. This service can help you select a new career, find a job, locate a suitable education or training program, create effective resumes and letters, plan your finances and find benefits you may qualify for, in addition to providing many other useful services.
How do you stand out from the pack?
- Self-Assessment: Identify your skills, interests and abilities and be able to discuss them with potential employers. Employers like individuals who know themselves and who are focused and confident.
- Follow-up: Show your interest by following up after an interview with a thank you note. Keep in touch with potential employers.
- Research the company: Know the organizations you are applying to, determine how your skills fit the job, and practice plainly communicating your fit to potential employers.