Lisa Hatfield Career Coach, University of Houston-Downtown, Texas
T
he job hunt can seem like a long and tedious journey, often with moments of frustration and self-doubt. Despite the trying times, it’s important to remain resilient and keep moving forward. Your efforts will be rewarded when you land the job you want! In the meantime, here are some tips that can make your job search a simpler and more effective process:
1. Switch up your online job search routine Rather than entering the same term over and over in your browser’s search bar, go to onetonline.org for ideas of possible job titles or industries. Post your resume on texasskillstowork. com to be paired with careers that reflect the content of your resume. Research vacancies on indeed.com and apply criteria of your choice, such as geographic location or experience level.
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to the job you want Although this requires a considerate amount of time and patience, the payoff is well worth it! Start by pointing out key words in the job posting; words that are repeated, or that clearly describe a certain skill or task should be your target. Incorporate these words into the body of your resume and into the dialogue of your cover letter. Also, be sure that you are highlighting skills and experiences most relevant for the job. There’s no need to take up valuable space on your resume and cover letter with details the employer won’t care about.
3. Say "thank you" It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Thank the employer in the conclusion of your cover letter for reviewing your application. After an interview, follow up with a personalized thank you email expressing your gratitude to each person you spoke with. This simple gesture might move you to the top of the proverbial job food chain.
4. Network with professionals online
Certifying Teachers in: Elementary Education (PreK-4) Middle Level Education (Grades 4-8) English Mathematics Science Social Studies
Secondary Education (Grades 7-12)
Resumes, Cover Letters, References, and Applications
How to Slay Your Job Search: Predator, Not Prey
Biology Chemistry Communication English General Science Mathematics Physics Social Studies
Pre-K-12 Education Spanish French Music Special Education We also offer post baccalaureate programs in all certification areas.
LinkedIn is a wonderful resource to establish connections with potential employers. Search for a job title you are considering, and send a personal message to one of your matches letting them know of your interest in what they do. You never know what opportunities you might be opening up for yourself!
5. Utilize your fellow alumni Alumni are fiercely dedicated to their alma mater and are already familiar with the quality of education and experiences at your institution. Reach out to your university’s alumni on LinkedIn and let them know about your career goals; a fellow alum might be able to refer you to a great new contact.
5. Get out there! Don’t just apply for jobs from the comfort of your computer screen at home; look for local career fairs and networking events to attend, and give participating employers a taste of your personality. People hire people they like – it’s a fact! Students and alumni who are still on the prowl for a job should stop by their University Career Center for what might be the start of a new career!
For more information contact: Sandra Frederick, Director of Education Career services fredericksl@gcc.edu or Mandie McCreadie, Education Program Director mcceadieam@gcc.edu
41 American Association for Employment in Education
