Here are some suggested questions for your network contacts:
- Do you think my resume is suitable to apply for this type of position?
- Do you belong to a professional association? How can I get in touch with the local chapter?
- Can you suggest sources where I might obtain job listings or announcements for this type of work?
- What local firms/agencies are most likely to have these kinds of positions?
- If you were in my position, to which three organizations might you apply first?
- Do you know of organizations that offer formal training programs for this kind of work?
- Can you suggest directories or other information in print about employers in this field?
- Can you refer me to others in the field that might be able to provide me with additional assistance?
- Is there any other advice or information you would like to add?
- May I contact you again if other questions arise? Why don't you keep my resume so that you can contact me if you have additional ideas.
Categorize the different contacts you currently have for job hunting. Use space under each heading to fill in names of contacts. Start with people you know and ask for referrals to people they know. If you are working with a group, don't overlook your fellow group members. Be sure to get exact spellings of names, titles, business addresses and telephone numbers.
- Friends and friends of friends:
- Relatives and friends of relatives:
- Faculty (within and outside your more):
- College classmates:
- High school classmates:
- People with whom you have worked in community/non-profit organizations or clubs:
- People with whom you have worked in student organizations or fraternities and sororities:
- Former employers (part-time, summer, internship supervisors, etc.):
- Sports partners:
- Former teachers;
- College or university advisors:
- Career Planning and Placement Center staff
Advertised openings are often located through traditional sources of employment (e.g., Career Planning and Placement Center job listings, classified ads, public and private employment agencies, professional associations).
When applying for advertised openings, consider the following suggestions:
Follow the application instructions carefully. Apply promptly. Be sure all written materials are complete, neat and well written. Whenever possible, type formal applications.
Don't limit your applications only to positions for which you have all the stated qualifications. Clearly and specifically state the reasons you are qualified to fill the position. Employers do not always find a "perfect" match and may modify their criteria when they receive a well-prepared application.
Note organizations which are advertising many openings at the same time. This may be an indication of expansion, new funding sources, etc. Apply to these employers for possible employment, even if a position of interest to you is not specifically advertised. (Be sure to state your employment interest!)
You may apply to the same employer more than once Even if turned down one time, you may be successful in subsequent attempts.
Don't avoid ads which list only a P.O. Box and no employer name. Some employers use this technique to avoid interruptions in their work places.
Whenever possible, reinforce your application with personal con tact and/or the recommendation of key contacts.
After you have submitted an application form or resume, it is most appropriate to phone the employer to try to arrange a personal employment interview. If the date you intend to phone is stated in your cover letter, the employer will be alerted that you are seriously interested in employment and will thus be likely to give your resume close attention. If you visit the employer as a primary contact and submit a resume or other application, but are not granted an interview, find out whom you may phone to discuss your qualifications and the most convenient time for you to call.
Whenever you are unable to immediately obtain an interview appointment, be sure that the employer is aware of your continued interest by stating that you would like to contact them again in the near future.
Be polite but persistent in your efforts. You cannot count on being considered if three months have elapsed since you last made con tact
Campus Interviews
If you are still a student, take advantage of the opportunity to interview on-campus with employers who have openings consistent with your career goals. See your Career Planning and Placement Center for specific procedures. The number and scope of these interviewing opportunities tend to reflect the supply and demand situation in large organizations and are not representative of the entire job market
Direct Applications
Direct application means applying to a potential employer even though a specific position may not be currently advertised. If you are seeking employment locally, your contact may be made by letter, visit, or phone call to the person responsible for hiring in the area of your career interest A letter and resume are often prepared. You also might visit in person or telephone to inquire about possibilities.
Some examples of possible "opening lines":
I’m interested in possible employment with ABC Corporation. I've reviewed information about your company and am interested in your planning group. Could we schedule an appointment?"
"I have been researching the office supplies industry and am interested in employment opportunities with Better Copies. What procedure should I follow to apply for employment... May I make an appointment... May I send you my resume... When may I phone back"
"I am impressed with the treatment program your staff uses to counsel depressed youth. I've worked in a similar program and would like to work for such an organization. Could we schedule an appointment?"
"I will complete my degree in Journalism in May. My training has included all aspects of print media I'm most interested in news coverage. What information do you need to consider me for employment?"
"George Thomas, a broker with your San Jose office, has provided me with very positive feedback about your firm. He said that you are the key person in the hiring process. When could we meet to discuss possible employment?"
"I understand why you might hesitate to fly me to New York for an appointment. When could we schedule a telephone interview?"
"While disappointed that I applied at a time of the year when you are not hiring, I am not discouraged. When might I re-apply?"
Caution: These are only suggestions and should be revised and tailored to fit specific circumstances and your personal style.
