Page 300 - Keys to College Success

search online for the names of people who coordinate internships for those compa-
nies. As the saying goes, “If you don’t ask, the answer is always no.”
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How can you make the most of an internship experience? First of all, during the
interview, ask for specifics about the tasks you will be performing. Second, if you take
the internship, understand that you may spend some time in menial tasks or with noth-
ing to do at all, and that handling it pleasantly can build transferable skills (diligence,
patience, finishing a task) as well as make a positive impression on employees that may
lead to a paid position down the road. Finally, if you feel that you are learning nothing
valuable, consider politely speaking up to see if your tasks can be adjusted.

Practical Tools for the Job Search
Whether you are looking for a job now or planning ahead for a search closer to gradu- Plan for Career Success
ation, you can increase your success by using the resources available to you, following
a strategic plan, and knowing the basics about résumés, formal interviews, and infor-
mational interviews. NETWORKING

The exchange of
Use Available Resources information or services
Use your school’s career office, your networking skills, classified ads, and online ser- among individuals,
vices to help you explore possibilities for career areas or specific jobs. groups, or institutions.
The career office. Look for job listings, interview sign-up sheets, and company con-
tact information. Go to informational workshops and job fairs. Meet with a staff mem-
ber to explore work–study offerings on campus or other opportunities.

Networking in person. The most basic type of networking—talking to people about
fields and jobs that interest you—is one of the most important job-hunting strategies.
Networking contacts can answer questions regarding job hunting, job responsibilities
and challenges, and salary expectations. Risk reaching out to friends and family mem-
bers, instructors, administrators, counselors, alumni, employers, coworkers, and others
for the reward of the help they can offer you.

Networking online. Tools like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter allow members to
connect with other individuals through groups, fan pages, and similar interests. During
a job search, these sites can be used to meet people who work at companies you are
interested in and showcase portfolio pieces. A word of caution: Your online presence is
public. If you wouldn’t want a potential employer (or your parents, instructor, or reli-
gious leader) to see something, don’t post it. In fact, many employers review Facebook
pages of applicants before inviting them for interviews.

Online services and classified ads. Although classified ads are still helpful for local
possibilities, the Internet—with its enormous information storage capabilities and low
cost—is a better location for job postings. Many employers post job openings through
online boards. In addition to a job description and salary information, most online
postings will contain company information and a link to where you can submit an
application. To get the most out of your virtual resources:

■ Join a business-focused social networking site, like LinkedIn, and look at jobs posted
there. Network with your contacts to find out about upcoming and existing openings.
■ Check the web pages of individual associations and companies, which may post
job listings and descriptions.
■ Look up career-focused and job listing websites such as CareerBuilder.com, Monster.
com, America’s Job Bank, Indeed.com, JobBankUSA, or ZipRecruiter.com. Note:
Competition is fierce on these large sites and you may not hear anything from them.
Target companies where you think there is a fit, and try to find a specific person at
that company to whom to submit your résumé.

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