Job search involves drawing on skills you’ve developed over time including reflection, research, planning, writing, speaking, problem solving and self-advocacy. You can be successful in the job search, but it will take a reasonable investment of time and energy.
Below are activities which could serve useful on your job search.
| JOB SEARCH PROCESS |
| STEP #1: RESUME AND APPLICATION LETTER |
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The first step is to ensure that your resume is up to an adequate professional standard. The content and design vary by person as well as position.
After completing your resume the letter of application can be prepared. This is your introduction to your potential recruiter.
Ensure that the letter is concise and have it reviewed by other persons for grammatical errors before submission.
Some tips for writing your resume
Remember when emailing your application save it as [firstnamelastname]. For example, “jasonjohn”.
For assistance in preparing your letter or resume you may check some examples and templates provided on our resource page.
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| STEP #2: NETWORKING AND SEARCHING |
Self-promotion
Depending on the field you are in it may be easier to promote yourself than it would be for others. Wherever possible, start to build a
brand The practice of marketing yourself and your careers as brands. The personal-branding concept suggests that success comes from how we package our self.
and
portfolio. A visual representation of your abilities, skills, capabilities, knowledge, qualities and it represents your potential. Physically, it is a collection of things;
tangible materials that represent work-related events in your life..
For example; if you are into marketing, start working on independent demo marketing campaigns, an application developer; start building demo applications. If you are a sociology major, what kind of shape are your research skills in? Whatever your field, create something that showcases your current skillset.
Networking
Networking is a critical aspect of the job search process. In today’s world, landing a job is increasingly influenced by social connections who vouch or provide added evidence in support of the information shared on your application. Use social media to your advantage as a first step with a LinkedIn profile then tidy your Facebook page of any material you do not believe would be beneficial to your career while searching for a job.
The next step is to get to know persons. Do volunteer work, attend workshops and attend panel discussions, if there is the opportunity to interact with a potential client or employer then take the chance to introduce yourself beforehand. Not forgetting those persons you already know. How can they connect you to people who are doing what you would like to do, people who could be potential clients or are persons who possess the skills and experiences you desire?
Internships
Internships, whether paid or unpaid, provide you with an introduction to the work environment as well as an opportunity to showcase your skills in a professional setting. Depending on the internship, there is always the possibility of retaining your position as a permanent member of staff. Pay attention to our news and notices page to learn about positions recruited through our office.
Check the student calendar to learn about on-campus recruitment activities and career development workshops.
Sign up here
Mentorship
The UWI Mentorship Programme is a unique resource made up of UWI CaveHill alumni/partners who volunteer to provide career-related information to current UWI Cave Hill students. The Office of Student Services is pleased to provide this valuable networking resource to currently enrolled students of degree programmes.
Mentorship often involves job shadowing or one-on-one interaction with someone in the field you wish to enter which gives you a chance to ask as any questions as possible about career requirements, mentors’ experiences in the field and any other burning questions you may have.
Searching
Check all advertisements in the newspaper and not just the classifieds.
Check the student calendar for on campus recruitment events.
Also, check websites such as ProfilesCaribbean and CaribbeanJobs or follow companies of interest on Facebook and LinkedIn. |
| STEP #3: INTERVIEW PREPARATION |
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Always, remember to answer your phone professionally as it may be a future client or employer on the line. When an interview is confirmed make sure to, obtain as much information as possible regarding the interview, the interview location and the key contact person’s details.
Here are some tips for how to:
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| STEP #4: FOLLOWING UP |
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Although noted as step 4 this can be considered step 2.5 as it also applies to sending letters and post interview.
Unless otherwise stated, be sure to follow up your application or interview. Visit the resources page and student calendar to learn more about job searching.
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| STEP #5: PREPARE FOR WORK |
After you have received the job, the last step is to get yourself ready for entering the workplace.
Here are some tips on:
Professional etiquette – How to behave in the work place and what is expected of you
Toastmasters is a great international organisation where one can improve their oral and written communication skills. Learn more about toastmasters and other clubs and professional associations here.
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