24 / 68
CAREER GUIDE 2016–2017
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
24
STEPS FOR CONDUCTING A SUCCESSFUL JOB SEARCH
The challenge of finding your first “real” job is a daunting one
indeed. Even if you are searching for an internship or have
previously been in the work force, finding the position of your
dreams is difficult. The keys to a successful job search are to
use a variety of strategies, to utilize your network and to make
personal connections as often as possible. Here are a few steps
to help you get started:
Allow yourself at least six to nine months for your job search.
Know your skills, interests, values and goals to guide your
search and to prepare to answer employers’ questions.
Register with ClemsonJobLink, the on-line recruiting system
for Clemson students available on the Career Center website.
Create a résumé and have it reviewed by Career Center staff.
Write a cover letter draft and have it critiqued by Career Center
staff.
Attend the Career Fair offered every year in the fall and spring.
Attend Career Center workshops on Job Searching and
Networking, Résumé Writing and Interviewing
Search ClemsonJobLink for job postings and on-campus
interviews.
Utilize Career
Shift
and Going Global for job postings. Both
resources can be accessed at
clemson.edu/careerunder
“Adivce and Handouts.”
Create an “A List” of targeted employers in your industry and
preferred geographic area. Research these employers on their
organization websites and bookmark human resources pages.
Find helpful job search websites, including national job boards
and industry-related professional associations. Web searching
can be a helpful way to learn about open positions but should
not be relied on as your only job search tool.
Develop a list of networking contacts and discuss your job
search with them.
Research salary statistics in your industry and geographic area.
Practice your interview skills by conducting a mock interview at
the Career Center.
Follow up with employers by calling or sending an email to
confirm that your application was received and ask additional
questions about the selection process.
After conducting interviews, always send a thank you note.
If you experience difficulty with your search, make
an appointment with a career counselor to brainstorm
additional strategies.
Remember, the Career Center staff is available to help you
navigate your job search. Visit our website or drop-in to talk
with a career counselor for assistance with any of these steps.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT JOB SEARCH
INTRODUCTION
Finding a job in the current US climate can be challenging.
As an international student, it is important to remember that
the job search in America can be a time consuming endeavor
that demands patience, diligence and work. The international
student faces the challenge of successful preparations of
job search materials such as résumé, cover letter and other
correspondences in addition to adjusting to culturally different
job search procedures. The following information is an overview
of important issues for the international student’s job search.
CONSULT YOUR INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISER
International students need to make an appointment with
the Office of International Services to discuss employment
opportunities. Depending on the type of visa, an international
student may be qualified for a practical training experience.
To ensure success, it is imperative that students follow the
advice of their international adviser in a timely manner.
JOB SEARCH PREPAREDNESS
A competitive job applicant will have spent time adequately
preparing for the job search. This includes producing culturally
appropriate résumés and cover letters. Correspondence and
interview practices differ cross-culturally. For this reason,
international students are encouraged to utilize the many
services offered at the Center for Career and Professional
Development to better assist them with acculturation issues
related to the American job search.
•
Research and match your skills to the skills requested on
the job description.
•
Network. Network. Network. Often, finding a job is facilitated
by relationships that you may have with professors, university
staff, family members, community professionals, etc.
•
Attend conferences and utilize professional organizations
related to your major/career field.
JOB SEARCH CLIMATE
International students are competing against a large pool of
qualified domestic applicants. Employers must demonstrate
that they were unable to find an equally qualified domestic
worker before they can sponsor an H1-B visa. However, an
international student can highlight the skills and tools they
have gained through their international experience, as well
as related job skills, which may distinguish them from the
rest of the applicant pool (ex.
proficiency in foreign languages
including English, or the ability to acclimate to diverse
cultures
). Employers are interested in understanding how you
can benefit the company. Be prepared to share your expertise
and distinguishing characteristics, which may make you the
best candidate for the position.