So, you are graduating soon or have already graduated. And you are still searching for jobs in this economy. Have you checked out the job posting boards on your university’s website? I didn’t think so. And until about a week ago, neither had I.
Today, while conducting my own job search in preparation for my graduation in less than two weeks (eeek!), I came across my university’s job board on the school website. I fit the job description for at least seven postings on the site. And I had never looked at it before. Not only that, but there were a plethora of entry-level jobs just waiting for students to apply for them. How had this resource slipped by me?!
Chances are your school has an online job board for internships, jobs at the university, a place where community members and alumni can post jobs, and so much more! And you don’t even know it is there.
Don’t Limit Yourself
Not interested in staying in your college town? Then check out the job posting sites of universities in the areas you want to be in! Even if they require an ID number and password to reach the alumni and student job boards, the jobs they are offering are most likely open to the public.
My school has postings from alumni all across the country; the alumni know the reputation of my school and trust the graduates we turn out. However, you can check the other schools in your area if your school isn’t turning anything up.
Don’t Believe Everything You Read
Just like other job boards, you will have to weed through the posts to determine which post is really for a career in your field and which really just wants you to hand out flyers at the local mall for “marketing” purposes. Just because you found the posting through the official university website doesn’t make it official. Be sure that you do your due diligence and check out the company and the position.
Don’t Rely Exclusively on Online Resources
Pounding the pavement still has its place in today’s society. Do you have a favorite professor who might know of someone who is hiring? Professors and staff at your school probably know plenty of people in the industries you are looking to get into. Have you asked the simple question of, “Do you know anyone who is hiring?”
We all know it’s about who you know (and who knows you), even though we don’t want to admit it. The good news for you is: You know your professor, who probably knows everyone you need to know. So ask!
Next time you are complaining about the lack of jobs in today’s economy, be sure you have exhausted all of the resources available to you, even those right in front of your face you might have missed.
Have you been to your university’s job board? Please tell us about your experience!
