Job Search Strategy
A successful job search is not about the number of applications you submit. It is about the intention behind each one. Focus on opportunities that align with your skills, interests, values, and career goals. The resources below will help you create a focused strategy, stay organized, and build meaningful professional connections. For personalized support, schedule a one-on-one appointment with a Career Coach.
Job Search Checklist
- Define your career interests
- Update your resume
- Polish your LinkedIn profile
- Identify target employers
- Create an application tracker
- Connect with professionals
Tip: One tailored, thoughtful application can be more effective than ten generic ones.
Set Your Direction
Define Your Target
Consider which industries, organizations, and positions align with your interests and values. Identify the skills you want to use and develop in your future career.
Review Your Materials
Make sure your resume is tailored, your LinkedIn profile is current, and your application materials clearly communicate your qualifications.
Consider Your Location
Determine where you would like to live and work. Consider whether you are open to relocating or pursuing remote or hybrid opportunities.
Not sure where to begin? explore careers.
Explore Your Search Options
Digital Platforms
Use Handshake, company career pages, and other job boards to find available opportunities. Set alerts so you can learn about new positions as they are posted.
Your Professional Network
Connect with professors, alumni, mentors, employers, and professionals at career fairs. These relationships can provide career advice, referrals, and information about opportunities.
Experience-Building Opportunities
Explore internships, campus employment, research, volunteering, and leadership opportunities. These experiences help you develop skills, expand your network, and strengthen your resume.
Strengthen Your Job Search Strategy
Tailor Your Application
Compare your experience and qualifications with the job description. Adjust your resume and cover letter to emphasize the skills and accomplishments most relevant to the position.
Do Not Count Yourself Out
Even if you do not meet every listed qualification, consider applying. Job descriptions often describe an ideal candidate, and your transferable skills, experiences, and potential may still make you a strong fit. An employer may also consider you for another opportunity within the organization.
Tip: When in doubt, apply. Let the employer decide whether you are qualified.
Stay Organized
Track the organization, position, application date, deadline, contact information, and follow-up status in a spreadsheet or job-search app.
Stay Consistent
Set weekly goals for researching employers, submitting applications, and building professional connections. A focused and consistent approach can make the process more manageable.
Take Action This Week
- Identify: Find three organizations that genuinely interest you.
- Research: Explore their mission, current projects, career pages, and available opportunities.
- Connect: Reach out to one professional at an organization for a brief informational conversation.
Keep Moving Forward
Rejection is a normal part of the job-search process, so use each experience to improve your strategy and keep moving forward. Build your skills with the Indeed Job Search Academy or schedule an appointment with a Career Coach for personalized support.