Effective Job Search Rachel Hammer Career Services Director National American University rhammer@national.edu

Step 1: Be Prepared Perfected Cover Letter Perfected Resume Both need to be tailored to position applying for Both are marketing tools Transferable Skills References Who should you ask? What do they expect from you?

Step 2: Self Assessment Self-reflection on skills and goals Review current job skills What are you interested in? Determine skills you want to develop Determine potential work schedule --skills can be both personal management skills (i.e., dependability, organizational skills, punctuality) and technical skills from past jobs or academic experiences (i.e., computer skills, office experience, child care background). Determine the skills you want to develop for career and professional goals and to enhance your resume.

Step 3: Use Effective Techniques Network-most successful way to find a job Volunteering Target employers directly LinkedIn Using professional organizations Young Professionals Network Chamber of Commerce Utilize Career Center Dress For Success Handbook Optimal Resume Internet job searching Newspaper postings Attending career fairs Temp to hire (Placement Agencies) Apply directly to business website

Step 3: Use Effective Techniques Cont. Applying for a job is a full time job Stay Positive Give yourself a goal (5-15 jobs a week) Applications submitted today may not show progress, be patient. Use resources to help you

Step 4: Tips for Online Applications Keep a Log Name, address, phone number, date applied, date of follow-up, date of thank you letter Keep your log-in information Check for status of your application Follow instructions for application Check grammar and spelling Be sure to always send application, cover letter and resume If you are applying for more than one job with in one organization, you will have to submit an application for each position you are applying for

Step 5: Application Follow-up Professional voicemail, ringback tone and email Call within 48 hours to ensure they have received your information Be polite and explain Goal to convince them to interview you Be persistent

Top Job Search Sites South Dakota Department of Labor KELOLAND.com SD.gov Monster.com Glassdoor.com Indeed.com Careerbuilder.com Simplyhired.com Usajobs.com

Sioux Falls Convention Center Career Fairs/Events South Dakota BIG Job http://www.getgrads.com/fairs/big.htm Tuesday, February 24, 2015 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sioux Falls Convention Center The event is FREE for students/graduates of a SDACCC School and $10 at the door for community members.

Questions?