In order to find work most effectively, you must first identify what type of jobs you want and are qualified for. Stating that you want “a job that you will enjoy and will pay the bills” is too vague to help you focus your efforts; yet focusing on a specific job title might cause you to overlook some excellent opportunities.
To help you define an effective employment target, answer the following questions:
Skills and abilities: What skills would you like to use the most in your next job?
Interests: What areas of interest would you like to be part of your next job?
Values: What are the three most important things that you need to have in your next job?
Earning: What would be the least pay you would be willing to accept? What is the upper end of pay you could expect, given your credentials?
Working Environment: What are some essential criteria for a comfortable work place where you can be most effective? What are some characteristics of the individuals you would enjoy working with?
Qualifications or background: What are your qualifications based on your past work, volunteer or education experience? Which of these qualifications would you like to utilize the most in your next job?
Example of a clear employment target: “I want a position where I can use my communications and organization skills. I’m interested in writing, organizing events and helping others. It is important for me to contribute to the community and to feel financially stable. I want a job with a regular schedule in an office setting. I have experience and enjoy working with children and new Canadians.”
If you have not already done so, you might find it helpful to review the “Discover Yourself” section.
Resumes and cover letters
Current students, or alumni who’ve graduated in the last two years can book an appointment with a career advisor in the Student Resource Centre to have their resume and cover letter reviewed.
You can also get personalized, on-the-spot feedback on your resume by an employer or advisor during our Rapid Resume Reviews before a career fair.
As well, you can learn how to write an effective resume and cover letter by reviewing the “Advanced Techniques for Work Search” booklet online.
Business cards
Business cards are excellent introduction tools, especially at networking events. By exchanging business cards, you not only promote yourself in a professional manner but also gain a potential employer’s contact information.
You can include some or all of the following information on your business card:
- Name and contact information
- Program name and major/minor/specialization (if applicable)
- Expected date of graduation
- Areas of career interests
- Personalized slogan or branding statement
- Summary statement of your past experience
- Significant experiences or skills.
You can use a Microsoft template to create your card and print them at home or utilize a professional design and print service.
Blank business cards will also be distributed at the Get to Work career fair in January. Check at the welcome table when you arrive!
As a job seeker, it is crucial to think about the impression that you are giving through the way you dress and act.
Dress
Always dress professionally when you meet with potential employers or professionals working in the field of interest. Dressing appropriately not only helps set the right tone for your meeting but also demonstrates your interest and respect for the other person.
A pant suit or skirt suit is a safe choice but not necessarily your only option. For males, a pressed shirt with a tie and dress pants could do or a blouse with blazer and skirt for females. If you are unsure whether an outfit is appropriate or not, err on the conservative side. It is better to overdress than to underdress.
Keep your make-up, accessories and cologne or perfume to a minimal. Aim for a clean and neat look.
Conduct
Before going to a meeting, networking event or an interview, research the organization or the occupation, field and industry of interest. Prepare a list of questions or specific information that you hope to find out from this meeting.
Networking events can be intimidating but small preparations can help ease the process. Prepare a brief self-introduction that includes your name and a relevant fact about you (e.g., your career aspirations, your academic interests, a significant past work or volunteer experience). The research or questions that you have prepared beforehand can also provide some helpful points to start a conversation.
During the event, take note of any information presented. When meeting someone for the first time, shake their hands firmly and exchange business cards if you have one (see "Prepare Work Search Tools"). Last but not least, do not forget to be yourself. After all, the people at these events and meetings are there to meet and get to know students or candidates like yourself.
