Job & Internship Search Strategies

Refine Your Job Search

Refine your job search by answering the following questions. Be able to describe the jobs you are seeking, why you are qualified for those positions, and customize your resume accordingly.

What are my likes and dislikes?

• Take the Interest Inventory in MyPlan
• Complete the Self-Directed Search at the Career Services Center
• Take the Values Assessment in MyPlan

What am I good at?

• Take the Skills Profiler in MyPlan
• Complete the Skills exercise in Collage: A Kent State to Career Portfolio

Why do I want to pursue this career?

• Discover your Decision-Making Style
• Explore the Quick Career Decision Maker

What is the job outlook?

• Look at the Occupational Outlook Handbook
• Explore O*Net Online

What kind of life can I have with this career?

• Complete the Imagine Your Future Workday exercise in the Career Exploration section of Collage: A Kent State to Career Portfolio to understand your preferred work environment.
• Conduct an informational interview with a professional working in your chosen career
• What is your desired/minimum salary?  Use the Salary Calculator to also consider the cost of living for specific geographical locations

Where do I find these jobs?

• Utilize the Experience Job & Internship Board
• Take advantage of networking strategies
• Check out the Career Services Center's Calendar of Events
• Review our favorite career/job search links
• Research organizations of interest including answers to questions such as: 
  
  » What are the employer's products or services?  » What is unique about them?
  » Is the organization expanding services or products?  » What is the work atmosphere like?
  » Are they a public/non-profit or private organization?  How many employees work there? 

How do I best prepare for employment in this area?

• Learn how to benefit from internships
• Learn all about interviewing
• Spruce up your resume
• Gain related volunteer and community service experiences