Looking for a job? Sell yourself

Well developed résumé, networking key

April 29, 2009
By Greta Myers
Staff Writer

Entering a stiff job market can be an intimidating task for soon-to-be UIS graduates. However, there are things students can do to make their work less daunting.   

Succeeding at the job hunt takes “time, energy and knowledge,” said Angela Evans, a Career Counselor at the Career Development Center at UIS. Evans recommends a “multi-modal” approach of job hunting through searching on-line job boards, researching company career sites, by using the Center’s Career Search online tool, and by networking.  Networking is especially valuable to students who wish to stay in the Springfield area, Evans said, because most job openings are never advertised.

Above all, Evans said, when looking for a job, remain purposeful and prepared.  The job hunt is not exactly easy when the economy is good, and it is imperative for new graduates to know what they have to offer the employer and to be able to articulate it. This self-knowledge is something that takes time and introspection and is a reason why Evans does not recommend that students hire résumé writers or recruiters to help with the job search.

“You know yourself better than any professional or recruiter,” Evans said, who suggested students stop by the Career Development Center and utilize the resources available.   “Functional” style résumés are especially helpful for graduates who do not have not much professional experience in the field they would like to get into to.  This style, as opposed to the traditional format, focuses on the student’s transferable skills, taken from classroom projects, volunteer work, internships, and club work. 

Besides writing a great résumé, Evans said graduates can get ahead by keeping active in the professional networking circle by creating and maintaining a professional blog and broadening the types of jobs for which they apply.

Once students have secured an interview, selling themselves is key. “Know yourself: strengths, values, interests, skills, accomplishments, goals,” Evans said.   A student should be able to explain how his or her background makes him the right choice for the job and what he can bring to the organization. 

“Time to be innovative,” Evans said. “Become masterful at selling your product-YOU!” 

The Career Development Center is located in the Student Affairs Building.  The walk-in advising hours are Tuesday through Friday from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm or students can schedule an appointment by calling  206-6508  or  through careerservices@uis.edu.