Strategies for Finding a Job You will use many of the strategies and resources you used to find an internship to search for a job. This web page provides guidelines for finding a job as well as resources for conducting a long distance or international search. International students seeking employment in the United States will also find resources on this web page.
Strategies for Finding a Job
Long Distance Search
International Opportunities
International Students and the US Job Search
STEP 1: Assess Your Interests
From your internship experiences, part-time jobs, course work, and conversations with peers, you know that there are a plethora of career options from which you may choose. While it may seem daunting to narrow your focus, this is the first step in your job search. You will need to spend some time reflecting on your experiences, interests, and priorities. It may be helpful to take some time to reflect on the following questions:
- What are your likes/dislikes?
- Geographically, where would you like to be located?
- How important are “quality of life” issues? (e.g. work/life balance)
You may find it helpful to begin to revise your resume at this time; documenting your experiences on paper can also help you to articulate your skills and abilities.
STEP 2: Explore Your Options
Your next step is exploration. You will find that you have many options. Self-assessment will help you to identify the industry and/or functional area(s) that interest you. Several resources are available to help you learn about industries and companies, which in turn can help you solidify your preferences. Resources include the following:
Through research, you will discover what opportunities are available and the qualifications that are needed for particular positions.
Creating a Target List
As you conduct your research, it may be helpful to develop a target list of companies. A target list will allow you to be intentional in your search, creating a plan, and focusing your attention. You may already be familiar with companies for whom you would like to work. You can include these in your target list.
To create a target list, begin by listing companies that you are familiar with and have an interest in working for. Then, use a variety of Internet resources (refer to resources above) to research industry trends and company profiles and based on this information create a list of companies that are doing well financially and/or resonate with your preferences and priorities.
Many students also find the resources at the Horn Library especially helpful, especially Company Dossier via Lexis Nexis Academic for creating company lists.
STEP 3: Strategize
After you have determined your preferences and explored what’s out there, you are ready for the next step. Your strategy should include the following tasks:
Creating your marketing tools. If you have not already done so, you will need to create and polish your resume and cover letters. Be sure to meet with a career advisor in CCD for a resume/cover letter critique.
Networking. Think of personal contacts (e.g. family, friends, professors, and former supervisors) that are employed in fields that interest you or can provide you with the names of individuals who work in industries that appeal to you. Compile this list of names, including business and personal (if available) contact information. Expand your network to include Babson alumni –refer to the Babson Alumni Directory.
Contact these individuals to schedule informational interviews.Informational interviews can provide you with insights about trends in particular fields, expand your professional network, and lead to internship/job opportunities.
Apply to postings at companies on your target list. It may be helpful to use Babson Career Connections to find postings.
