Jumpstart your career: Why now is the ideal time to begin your job search

Career
Male and female sitting in front of a computer

5 important job search tips to get ahead of your competition.

Whether you are an entering student or a returning student, now is the perfect time to start building your job search strategy. No matter if you have a clear career path or are still exploring your options, getting an early start can be easy, simple and rewarding.

Here are some simple suggestions to help you get started:

  1. Engage with people at Warner. Pay attention to those around you, especially those in roles or fields that interest you. Observe their work, projects and interactions. Don’t hesitate to ask them about their experiences to learn more about their professional life. 
  2. Expand your network. Attend professional gatherings, conferences and workshops. Get to know current and potential colleagues personally and explore collaborations and shared interests. Join LinkedIn groups, like the Warner School Alumni Group and the UR Alumni Group, to grow your professional circle.
  3. Seek out a mentor. The UR’s Meliora Collective connects students and alumni across various fields for career guidance and mentorship. Look for an announcement in September when it opens for this academic year.
  4. Keep an eye on job openings. Regularly scanning job listings helps you stay informed about your field and potential employers. In September, you will be automatically registered for Handshake, a job posting and employer connection platform that sends relevant job opportunities directly to your phone or tablet.
  5. Connect with Career Services. Reach out to Warner’s dedicated career services professional, Harriette Royer, at hroyer@warner.rochester.edu. She offers personalized consultations on resume/CV/cover letter development, networking, interviewing, coaching for success, and more!

Take advantage of the resources available to you and enjoy the journey. For more ideas on building your career early, read this Inside Higher Ed article, “Preparing for an Insightful Professional Life” by Victoria McGovern.