Over the span of your life, you will find yourself repeating the job search process several times. Most job seekers will change their careers and/or employers at least four to five times throughout their working lives. Learning and adapting job search skills will provide you with a lifelong ability to effectively maneuver through the job search process.

Critical elements that will determine the effectiveness of your job search include:

1. Assessment of your interests, skills and abilities to determine satisfying and focused career objectives
   
2. Development of effective job search documents
   
3. Development, analysis and adaptation of job search strategies
   
4. Time and effort put forth in the job search
   
5. Realistic expectations of, and goals for yourself
   
6. Evaluation of job offers
   
7. Handling of rejection during the process

Assessment of Interests, Skills and Abilities

Before the job search begins, take time to assess your interests, skills and abilities. Some questions to ask:

• What are my work-related interests, skills and abilities?
  
• What have I learned from my academic, volunteer and/or job experiences?
  
• Do I want to live locally, nationally or internationally?
  
• How do I envision my lifestyle for the next five to ten years?

Although the self-exploration process can take quite a bit of time, you will find it useful in determining your occupational and career goals. As a result, the likelihood of your satisfaction with your career choices will be higher and your career objectives will become more focused.

Development of Effective Job Search Documents

Job search documents include not only résumés and cover letters, but portfolios, thank you letters, acceptance letters, and any documents related to the job search as well. This guidebook will assist you in the development of effective documents that will market your skills and abilities to potential employers. The Career Services Office (CSO) also has several resources to assist you including a Career Education Library, the CSO web site, workshops, and individual appointments.

Development, Analysis and Adaptation

To be successful in your job search, a plan of action is required. You must be ready to develop, analyze and adapt your job search to maximize results. Additionally, more than half of all available positions are never advertised and are called the “hidden job market.” To make the most of your job search efforts, you must tap this “hidden job market.”

Amount of Time and Effort

The amount of time and effort devoted to your job search is crucial in determining the outcome and effectiveness of your job search. Expect to spend between 3-9 months concentrating on your job search before fielding or accepting job offers. Be consistent in the amount of time you spend weekly on your job search. You should expect to spend 20+ hours per week, depending on outside commitments and priorities. While the CSO is here to assist, it is ultimately your responsibility to make things happen. Your individual efforts will determine your success!

Realistic Expectations and Goals

Finding a job is not easy and keeping your goals in perspective can be daunting at times. It is important to set realistic and attainable goals that will lead to success and bolster confidence during the job search. Accomplishing milestones along the way will keep the focus needed on the bigger picture of obtaining a job offer. Upon completion of a set of job search tasks or accomplishing a goal, reward yourself for your efforts!

Evaluation of Job Offers

Once you have received a job offer, you must evaluate the offer and determine if the position will be a good fit for you.
Are the position and employer compatible with your values and interests?
Are you prepared to reject the offer if the position is wrong for you?
Does the salary meet your requirements?

Handling Job Search Rejection

Rejection is a natural part of the job search process. You will not obtain a 100%, or even 50%, success rate with employers. Keep in mind the factors influencing the employer’s decision-making. Employers and Human Resource offices go through a myriad of résumés for each job opening. Other candidates may have more specific or years experience. Networking also plays a large role in the candidate selection process.

It is easy to become snagged by the notion that a job rejection equates to a personal rejection, however, consider that perhaps you were not an ideal fit for the employer. It is normal and okay to feel hurt and frustrated, but refocus your energy on maintaining your job search, keeping a positive mental attitude.