Step by Step Process for a Successful Job Search

A successful job search requires you to take a series of foundational steps to support you in achieving the anticipated results in this sometimes arduous process. However, making sure you haven’t missed a step will support you in not only receiving a job offer, but also finding the right match that supports your career ambitions.

How will you know it’s the right match?

A right match will be a career where you can be yourself, use your innate talents (i.e., what your naturally good at), dive into your unique interests, reach your professional goals and look forward to getting up in the morning to go to work!

That’s real job search success!

Now, it’s your time to shine!

Identify where you are in the step-by-step process and see what next steps you can take to support you in reaching your career ambitions.

STEP 1 – KNOW WHAT YOU WANT

STEP 2 – PURSUE YOUR CAREER VISION

  • Set a S.M.A.R.T Goal
  • Share your career goal with friends, family, colleagues, peers, and professors
  • Create a 30 to 90 days action plan
  • Meet with your Career Specialist to set yourself up for success

GET THE TOOL – Use the SLU SMART Goal setting template (coming soon)

STEP 3 – DO THE RESEARCH

  • Explore your career path choice and know your options
  • Research the different opportunities (i.e., organizations, companies, unions etc.)
  • Create a list of your top 10 companies
  • Meet with your Career Specialist to discuss options in your field of study

GET THE TOOL – Use the SLU company research & networking template to keep track of your research

STEP 4 (PART I) - IDENTIFY YOUR STRENGTHS & TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

  • Create/ update your professional resume
  • Learn how to write a professional cover letter tailored for each position you apply to
  • Meet with your Career Specialist to review your resume so you can highlight your potential

GET THE TOOL – Use the SLU professional resume writing checklist & view the resume example,  resume info sheet, cover example, and cover info sheet.

STEP 4 (Part II) - IDENTIFY YOUR STRENGTHS & TRANSFERABLE SKILLS

STEP 5 – EXPAND YOUR PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

  • Conduct informational interviews
  • Attend professional events
  • Connect with professionals on LinkedIn
  • Meet with your Career Specialist to get tips on the best networking practices

GET THE TOOL – Use the SLU networking & company research tracking sheet

STEP 6 – GET HIRED

  • Get interview invitations
  • Be confident and present yourself as a top candidate
  • Negotiate your salary
  • Say YES to a job offer you want
  • Meet with your Career Specialist to discuss how to negotiate a job offer

A job search takes no more than 3 to 6 months and can be even shorter with the right tools, strategies, and support.

Asking for help is part of your journey to success!

Contact your career services to receive the support you need to reach your professional goals: careerservices@slu.cuny.edu