Advice

Tips for Job Searching Success in Challenging Times

The worldwide economic collapse has fueled much uncertainty in the job market. But there are some steps students can take to help improve their chances of a successful job search.

Burt Nadler, assistant dean and Career Center director, offers tips students can use to help them find success in their internship and job search, even in these challenging times.

Nadler says research is a vital first step of any internship or job search.

"Focused candidates using targeted resumes, cover letters, and other documentation and communication strategies can ultimately overcome supply and demand obstacles," Nadler says.

He adds that successful searchers zero in on fields that they're interested in and then respond to job postings in the field and take the proactive approach of contacting firms and networking with those in their field.

The second piece of advice Nadler offers students is for undergrads as well as recent graduates to explore "sign up, pay up, and show up" internships, including overseas internship programs. While it can be difficult to afford for students and parents, domestic and international internships that you pay for pay off in the long run.

"In many ways, this is the most effective way to overcome economy-based supply and demand obstacles," Nadler says. "These investments will definitely pay off when hiring swings in a positive direction."

Check out the following Web sites to see what's available: University of Rochester study abroad programs, Rochester study abroad programs in Europe, University of Dreams, the Washington Center for Internships, and IES.

Third, volunteer for internships and seek shadowing experiences. Nadler suggests that candidates write "networking notes" that contain phrases such as "while compensation would be appreciated, I would be willing to volunteer in order to complete special projects, shadow and serve in supportive roles."

Every year, the Career Center distributes more than $100,000 to support volunteer summer internship experiences through University of Rochester Reach Fund stipends.

Nadler's fourth tips is to be proactive in completing course work related to career goals, including seminars, summer programs, and specialized training.

"When employers are expanding, they are willing to review resumes and interview candidates with broad qualifications and education," according to Nadler. "When downsizing, they become more goal-focused and seek candidates, or field-oriented academic experiences. One or two courses, or completion of a formalized program, reveal a candidate's sense of purpose and, when presented prominently, specific skills gained, concepts learned, and projects completed."

The Career Center offers a variety of resources to help students with any aspect of their job search. Contact Nadler at bnadler@mail.rochester.edu or visit the Career Center's Web site for more information.