Internship and Job Search – Final Tips for Your Search

You are probably starting to realize that looking for a job can be a job! A job search is very much like a job and you should treat it that way.

• Set up a regular schedule so you have a plan in advance to dedicate time to this entire process: planning, researching, outreach, organizing application materials, etc. Even if you happen to be unemployed when you start your search, don’t go overboard. When you need to find a job it can be easy to panic and turn your search into a 24/7 activity. It doesn’t need to be. For a process like this to work takes a little time. You need to give people time to respond to your applications, outreach emails, conversations, etc. so build that into your process. What is most important is to do a little work every day. This helps to ensure you won’t miss timelines for following–‐up with people or won’t be too late in noticing a new job posting. Try to dedicate a few hours every day. If you can manage it, some time in the morning and another round at night to give you a chance to respond to any activity that happened during the day. With a little effort and persistence you can make this schedule work even when you are still in school.
• Stay organized. You need to keep track of what you send each employer (emails, which version of document you sent them, etc.) as well as follow‐up dates and notes about your conversations. Some people organize this effort in a simple Excel spreadsheet. Others choose to use calendar apps, or services like Dropbox, Google Docs or Evernote so they have access to everything related to their search from their phone if they need it. It doesn’t matter how you choose to do it, as long as you do it. Don’t miss an opportunity because you forgot to email a contact something they asked for by the deadline they set.
• Be professional on the phone. Be sure to find a quiet place to make/take calls and make sure you have good cell reception or use a land line. This includes making sure your voicemail message is brief and professional and check it regularly, especially if you get a call from a number you don’trecognize. Always check the message before calling back the number in case your caller left additional instructions in their message.
• Do your best to take every call you receive. Sometimes decisions are made quickly and the candidates who respond first might be the only ones who get interviewed. Except when you are with another employer, always keep your phone on (on silent if necessary) so you have a chance to catch each call. If you can’t pick up, check any message left and call back as soon as you can. Be sure you are in a quiet place when you do so.
• Repeat what works and eliminate what doesn’t. Everyone has a different personality and different goals. Some of these techniques will work really well for you and others may not. Try everything at first, but pay attention to what is working best for you and focus most of your efforts there.