Job Search Help: Job Searching & Career Paths

Utilize Job Boards Wisely

• Focus on Niche Job Boards

  • Instead of relying solely on popular sites like Indeed or LinkedIn, explore industry-specific job boards that cater to your field. This can lead to more relevant opportunities. Companies usually have their own job board webpage (found in a Careers or Job section of their website - you can search "[Company name] Jobs" on your preferred search engine and their job board will usually show as a result).

• Set Up Alerts

  • Use job board features to set up alerts for new postings that match your criteria. This ensures you don't miss out on opportunities as soon as they become available. If these are not available, then it is recommended to bookmark or save the website, so you can easily access and search/apply to new jobs posted.

Target Your Job Search

• Identify Ideal Roles
  • Focus on positions that genuinely interest you rather than applying super broadly. Tailoring your applications to specific roles increases their effectiveness.
  • Use several search terms for the type of work you are interested in, some jobs may have a different title than the one you are focusing on. If you feel like you are not finding enough job posts, you may want to change the job title you are searching for.
    • If you are having trouble brainstorming what other job titles could be possible, use an AI resource to brainstorm some new search terms to use.
    • It may help looking at job descriptions and requirements, and not just the job title, to see if the role would be a good fit.
• Apply to What Feels Right
  • If you see a job posting that interests you, you should still apply even if you feel like you only fit some or most of the applicant requirements/preferences. Sometimes companies are willing to hire someone that doesn't match all the requirements but has some experience because they think the applicant would be a better fit for their organization. Don't limit yourself to only job postings that fit your exact experience if the job is of interest.
• Research Companies
  • Make a list of target employers and learn about their culture and job openings. This helps tailor your application materials and demonstrates genuine interest during interviews. Once you have a list of companies in mind, you can also check their specific job boards and create alerts if available to their website for new postings.

Be Proactive

• Daily Searches

  • Dedicate time each day to search for jobs, filtering by recent postings (within the last 24 hours or week). This increases your chances of applying before the competition. Job searching can sometimes be a numbers game, depending on the industry, where the more jobs you apply to give you a better chance of landing a job.

• Apply Quickly

  • Prioritize jobs posted recently, as older listings may indicate that the position has already been filled or is no longer active.

Here are 10 ways you can network today:

1. Leverage social media and online platforms:
   • Use LinkedIn to build your professional profile, connect with others in your industry, and engage in relevant discussions. Optimize your profile with keywords and showcase your skills and accomplishments.
   • Join industry-specific groups on LinkedIn and other platforms to expand your network.
2. Attend virtual and in-person networking events:
   • Look for professional associations, job fairs, industry trade shows, and alumni events in your area.
   • Participate in online webinars, conferences, and panel discussions to connect with others and potentially stand out as a thought leader.
3. Conduct informational interviews:
   • Reach out to professionals in roles or companies you're interested in to request brief informational interviews.
   • Use these conversations to gain insights into specific jobs, company culture, or the industry in general.
4. Utilize your existing network:
   • Connect with former colleagues, classmates, friends, and family members. ERAU alumni are people you should consider reaching out to as well. You can talk to a Career Advisor on how to do so, by scheduling an appointment through one of the links in the bottom box of this webpage.
   • Let your network know you're job searching and what type of position you're seeking.
   • Ask for referrals, as they can significantly increase your chances of landing a job.
5. Join professional organizations:
   • Become a member of relevant professional associations to access resources, job boards, and networking opportunities. Some will have student discounts.
6. Build relationships through shared interests:
   • Network through sports, hobbies, or volunteering activities.
   • Participate in online communities related to your field.
7. Maintain and nurture connections:
   • Follow up with new contacts and stay in touch with existing ones.
   • Offer help and support to others in your network, not just asking for favors.
8. Be strategic and targeted:
   • Use LinkedIn to find and connect with department heads or other key figures at target companies.
9. Optimize your online presence:
   • Ensure your LinkedIn profile and other professional social media accounts are up-to-date and showcase your skills and experiences. Consider exploring Handshake as well, you can talk to a Career Advisor on how to use either of these professional social medias by making an appointment through one of the links in the bottom box of this webpage.
10. Consider a mentorship:
    • Seek out mentorship relationships for long-term career guidance and support. Some professional organizations offer mentorship. Talk to a Career Advisor at the Center for Career and Professional Development to see if there are mentorships or pathways available for your specific industry of interest.

Remember, effective networking is about building genuine relationships and providing value to others, not just asking for job leads. Be consistent in your networking efforts and always maintain a professional demeanor in your interactions.

Applying to jobs is not easy. It is a time and energy consuming process that may not feel rewarding until you get confirmation of a job offer. It is important to be mindful of how the job searching process can impact your mental health.

Key Impacts of Job Searching on Mental Health

• Stress and Anxiety or Depression
  • Many job seekers experience high levels of stress, particularly from waiting for responses, facing rejections, and finding suitable jobs.
• Loss of Self-Esteem
  • Constant rejection during the job search can erode self-confidence and trigger negative thoughts.
• Uncertainty and Increased Pressure
  • The unpredictability of job searching can create feelings of helplessness and loss of control. The pressure to find a job can lead to disappointment and frustration when expectations aren’t met.

Coping Strategies

To mitigate these impacts, it's important to maintain healthy coping strategies, and consider professional help if needed. Recognizing the signs of job search-related mental health issues is crucial for overall well-being. Below are some ways to help stay mentally okay while job searching.

Maintaining a Positive Mindset

• Set Realistic Goals
  • Break down your job search into manageable tasks to stay motivated.
• Take Breaks When Needed
  • Job searching can be stressful; ensure you take time for self-care and maintain balance in your life
• Establish a Routine
  • Create a structured daily schedule for your job search activities to maintain motivation and reduce anxiety.
• Celebrate Small Wins
  • Acknowledge progress in your search, such as securing interviews or networking connections, to keep morale high during what can be a challenging process

Be Mindful When Applying

• Focus on the Experience
  • Do not get attached to jobs when applying. You might be applying to your dream job that fits all of your preferences and you seem to match all of their requirements, but it is not a guarantee. It is not easy to do when facing rejections, but focus on the experience each job application gives you, rather than whether or not you got the job, until you get a job offer.
    • Sometimes you can ask the hiring team their reasons for rejecting your application, but it is not unusual to not get a response back. Don't take it personally if you don't hear back. if they do provide feedback on your application, thank them for their time and use that information for your next application or interview.
• Practice Makes Perfect
  • Applying for jobs is like any other skill, it takes time and practice to feel confident and have the tools needed to be successful. It is recommended to work with a Career Advisor at the Center for Career and Professional Development to do mock interviews, get resume and cover letter advice, and learn industry-specific information for your career goals. You will feel more confident in the job application process the more you apply to jobs and do interviews, as you will know what is generally to be expected.