A lot of things in life are a process and getting a job is no exception. Here are a few simple steps that can guide you towards landing the job.
1. Do the research
Let’s be honest, whether you’re looking for an easy summer break job or a possible job that
could segue you onto your career path, you need to know what you’re getting
yourself into. The first and possibly one of the more important steps is
researching what jobs are available to you and that you’d be competent at.
2. Create your resume
Once you’ve done
your research you’ll have a better idea of what to include on your resume. The
resume itself should be crisp and concise including details that highlight your
appeal to this job specifically and an opening statement or summary that helps
individualizes you as a candidate, peaking the interest of the person reviewing
it.
3. Network
The cliché “it’s all about who
you know” may not be the only way to work yourself into a new job, but it
definitely helps. Once you’ve done your research and built your resume you can
use those for hints as to who in your networking group you may be able to reach
out to for help. For example: Greek organizations are huge networking webs. You
have your own pledge class brothers or sisters but then the older ones and
alumnus as well. Someone is bound to know someone else that is capable and
willing to help you in your job endeavors.
4. Apply
Now it’s time to fill out the
application. You’ll need to figure out whether the job you’re applying for
requires an online or print application and proceed accordingly. When filling
out the application it’s important to go through and answer the questions
correctly and to always proofread and edit. It’s important to make sure to fill
out the application in its entirety because incomplete or sloppy answers can
cause you to look like a less serious candidate.
5. Follow-up
Now that you’ve filled out
and submitted your application, it’s time to follow-up. Generally, if you
haven’t heard anything within 2-3 days like an initial confirmation that your
application has been received you should take this extra step. Something as
simple as a phone call will work. Following-up shows that you care about the
job and also ensures that if something like your application getting lost in a
black hole somewhere in the Internet happens, you can fix it.
6. Schedule the interview
Hopefully, the
first five steps have helped you land an interview. The hiring manager should
contact you and schedule a meeting. Be sure to pick a time and date that not
only works for both of you but you also know that you can make it to without
any conflicts.
7. Prepare for the interview
Getting ready
for your interview is a complete process on its own. First you’ve got to look
the part. Mom always said, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have”
and like most other times, she was right. You’ll need an outfit for the
interview that is professional and would be acceptable in that specific
workplace. Not only do you have to look the part but you have to act it too.
This means knowing exactly what position you are trying to obtain and the
company that it is at. Also, practice answering standard interview questions in
a way that highlights your capabilities.
8. Nail the interview
With all of your
preparation this should come a lot easier. The interview is a place to showcase
your communication skills and how you work with people face-to-face. Make sure
to come across as personable and someone who would fit into the work
environment with a good work ethic and attitude.
9. Follow-up. (Yes, again.)
Here is another
time when it is a good idea to follow-up with the hiring manager or boss.
Usually after your interview they give you a general timeframe of when you’ll
hear back from them. If this time frame passes, be sure to check in.
10. Accept the offer
If you’ve successfully
completed steps 1-9 and the employer thinks you’re a good fit for the position
then they will extend you an offer. If you’re in a place where you can renegotiate
pay/benefits, do it. The worst they can say is no. Once a final offer has been
reached you can officially accept and get to work.
