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Searching for a job during tough economic times

A job search for a full-time position can be a time-consuming, daily task in a normal economy. But in a tough economy you have to double or triple the amount of work you put into your job search. You may be really lucky and find the right position quickly, but that is unlikely. It is more likely that your search will consume the same amount or more time than a 4-credit course and will involve many resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

Here are some tips:

  1. Know yourself Job Search
    What do you enjoy doing? What are you good at? What valuable skills do you possess that you could offer an employer? Can you give examples of these traits?
  2. Think outside the box
    For example: If you enjoy crunching numbers look at all industries that need Accounting/Finance/Economic people from accounting firms to hospitals to software companies.
  3. Get organized
    Whether it is a file of folders or an excel spreadsheet, do whatever works for you to track your job search activity. Try to keep track of when you applied, how you found the position, and the end result. If you are not getting any offers or replies make an appointment to talk with a Career Counselor at the Michelin Career Center. Your resume might need some enhancements.
  4. Get on ClemsonJobLink and utilize it!
    Fill out your profile, load your resumes, and search for jobs, employers, and contacts in ClemsonJobLink. Apply to jobs that you have an interest in, along with employers who are coming on-campus to interview. Keep them on your calendar and follow up.
  5. Take advantage of on-campus interviews
    We had many opportunities this fall for on-campus interviews and did not fill all schedules. What happens? The employer cancels and reconsiders whether to return to Clemson for future recruiting needs.
  6. Network!
    Let others know you will be graduating and looking for career opportunities. This includes: organizations, family, friends, etc.
  7. Set your job search goals
    What goals you set will depend on your own search and timeline. Good ones to think about are: How much time are you going to put into the search? How bad do you want a job after graduation? How many organizations and contacts do you want to target each week?
  8. Start searching and applying!
    The more you prepare, research, and network, the more these tips will pay off!