Job Search Resources
There are many resources available in Career Services to help you with your job search. We encourage you to schedule an appointment with the Coordinator of Career Services to help you launch your job search action plan. Many programs and workshops are also scheduled each semester.
Developing an effective job search strategy is much more than uploading your resume to a couple of sites and waiting for the interview offers to come in. Consider these tips to get you organized: 10 TIPS FOR TOP-NOTCH REFERENCES
Reference Forms
These reference forms can be downloaded and given to your professors, clinical supervisors or other professionals who have agreed to write a letter of recommendation for you.
For students and graduates in the A.A.S. Nursing Program (RN) use these:
For students and graduates in all other programs, please use these:
Be a Compelling Candidate
Write a Targeted Resume
This is more time-consuming than just having one resume that you use to apply for every job. However, it works. Taking the time to edit or rewrite your resume so it matches the qualifications for the job to which you’re applying will show the hiring manager that you have the credentials for the job and should be considered for an interview. Program-specific examples of resumes can be found in Career Services – Room 140-E
How to Write a Cover Letter
Write a Cover Letter that shows, at a glance, why you are a strong match for the job. Don’t repeat your resume, rather highlight your relevant skills to the skills the employer is seeking. Highlight your professional qualifications that match the hiring requirements. You have only a few seconds to catch the hiring manager’s attention, so use them wisely.
Social Media in Job Search
Many recruiters search social media for information on candidates even before they schedule an interview. Make sure that everything they find when they search social media is information that is presentable to the public. Edit and actively use your profile on LinkedIn since many recruiters use Linkedin to advertise positions and source candidates. Consider these tips from Linkedin to build an outstanding profile!
Network
Don’t just hide behind your computer to make connections. Talk with faculty, join professional organizations, participate in professional conferences and community activities. Volunteer – you never know who you are going to meet who has colleagues and friends in your chosen field. Buffalo and WNY is a small town – get to know your community!
Practice Make Perfect
Practice before you go for an interview. Review typical interview questions and research the company so you are well-prepared to interview. Schedule a practice interview with Career Services so you know what you want to say and can see how you say it. Have interview clothes ready (dry cleaned, shoes polished, etc.) so you’re ready to interview professionally at a moment’s notice.
Send a Thank You Note
Don’t forget to follow up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the job. Most candidates don’t bother, but those that do are more likely to get hired.
Interviewing
What are employers looking for during an interview? Confidence (not arrogance), enthusiasm, interest in the profession and the job for which you are interviewing. Some knowledge of the organization and why you want to work there. An understanding of your own skills and how they will contribute to the mission of the organization or department. One of the best ways to assess your own interviewing style and see what employers see is to schedule a practice interview with Career Services. We also offer you the opportunity to digitally record and playback your practice interview to help you see your interviewing strengths and areas that need to improve before a real job interview.