Career Planning
Career Planning
The job search can feel overwhelming, so its helpful to break it into manageable steps.The good news is you don’t have to do every step in order. For example, you can start working on your resume before you identify what you want to do. Just start checking off as many of these activities as you can, and you’ll find yourself on the way to a great opportunity.
You can receive assistance for every one of these steps through the Lerner College Career Services Center and UD Career Services Center. And you don’t have to do it all during business hours – start by checking out both websites for lots of links and helpful information.
STEP 1: KNOW YOURSELF
- I have identified my personal strengths, skills, interests and values.
- I have made a list of possible job titles/fields of interest.
- I can name two or three careers/jobs I plan to pursue.
Take Action/Resources:
STEP 2: KNOW WHERE YOU WANT TO WORK
- I have researched organizations or companies that hire someone with my skills, interests and background.
- I have researched potential career fields: typical entry-level jobs, typical salaries, best geographic location for jobs, etc.
- I have identified the top three geographic areas where I’d like to live and work.
- I have identified 10 potential employers for the type of work I’m seeking.
Take Action/Resources:
- Research employers/industries on VAULT
- Look on the Calendar of Career Eventsto attend Employer Information Sessions, Career Fairs and other events to learn more about potential employers
- Networking/Information Interviewing
STEP 3: GET READY FOR THE SEARCH
- I have had my resume and cover letter reviewed by a professional in the field or a staff member at Career Services.
- I have prepared a portfolio or work samples to highlight my experience, skills and talent.
- I have developed my “30-second Commercial” for short encounters with employers.
- I have identified three individuals who will serve as references
- I have developed my interview skills.
- I have prepared for interviews by practicing my responses to typical questions and/or doing a mock interview.
- I have an interview suit that is appropriate for the field in which I plan to work.
- I have a professional-sounding answering machine/voice mail message in case an employer calls.
- I have a neutral/professional e-mail address to give to employers.
Take Action/Resources:
- Job Search Strategies Handout
- Look at the Calendar of Career Events for upcoming career workshops to develop your career skills
- Meet with a Career Consultant
STEP 4: START SEARCHING
- I regularly check Blue Hen Jobs and other websites for career opportunities. I read the appropriate job-search resources for my field(s) of interest.
- I have a system for keeping track of my contacts, interviews and other job-search activities.
- I follow up on every interesting job lead immediately.
- I have developed a list of potential networking contacts and keep in touch with them.
- I keep a copy of my resume next to my phone in case I receive a call from an employer.
- I follow-up each cover letter with a phone call or e-mail to the employer requesting a job interview.
- I send thank you lettersor e-mails to every person who interviews me.
Take Action/Resources:
- Look at the Calendar of Career Events for upcoming career workshops to develop your career skills
- Meet with a Career Consultant
