The Big Picture

The Big Picture

The job-search process can be exciting and challenging. It’s exciting to explore all the possibilities open to you. It also takes time, energy, and a lot of organizing. The job search will include rejections and some stress, but eventually you’ll find a job that’s a good fit for you.

Job hunting takes time.
Plan accordingly, be patient, and don’t get discouraged if it takes a while.

Until then, think of the job search as an opportunity to meet new people (aka, network), practice your communication and organizing skills, and learn more about yourself.

Self-Assessment and Preparation are Key

A successful job search requires preparation. Good preparation means more than just searching for job openings and applying. You should also research yourself. By starting with a thorough self-assessment—of your skills, interests, preferred work environment, values, and needs—you’ll have a better sense of what kind of job you want. This will help you determine which jobs or fields to focus on most, or where.

It’s possible you already know your interests, skills and preferences, but you’re not sure what types of jobs match them. Whatever stage of self-assessment you’re in, you can get assistance from the Career and Community Learning Center. Stop by our 135 Johnston Hall office to browse books and magazines about career options, sign up for a self-assessment, talk to a Peer Advisor for advice, or schedule an appointment with a career counselor. After you have a sense of the jobs you want to pursue, we can help guide your search process with free resume critiques, online practice interviews, and much more.

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