Jodi Hammer, director of the University Career Center at the School of Public Health, has decades of wisdom when it comes to supporting students in their career journeys. Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a senior looking at career options, follow Hammer’s five recommendations below to get you closer to the job you seek.
1. The time is now — yes, even over the holidays
Many job-seekers think, ”No one is in the office, I’ll wait until the new year to start my job hunt.” This is a myth! Right now, as the holidays start, is an excellent time to jump into your search. Here’s why:
- People are often more relaxed, open and giving as the holidays begin
- Holiday parties are the most “wonderful time” of the year to network
- Some companies need to fill certain positions by the year’s end in order to not lose that position
- For some industries, business is slower around holidays, so there is more down time to respond to requests for “career chats”
2. Don’t despair – you can do it!
We’re in a tough job market, but there are many things you can do now to get ahead in your career journey. Remind yourself of all you have going for you: Studies show that cultivating optimism can support you during the job search process.
3. Career chats
Get talking to people. Instead of an “informational interview” ask for a “career chat” – the former sounds long and arduous and the latter shorter and more enjoyable.
Reaching out
The cold call/email can be the most dreaded task of many job seekers. But fear not, you can be brief and direct in your message: “I’d love to learn more about your own experience in _____. Might you be available for a 15-minute career chat at your convenience?”
Once someone has agreed to talk to you, make sure you have prepared for the chat, don’t expect them to lead. Write out a few questions in advance (see examples below) and make sure that you have researched the person.
- “I noticed in reviewing your LinkedIn profile, you went from ______ to ______; how did that work for you?”
- “If you were in my position right now, looking for a job/internship in this field, who are the two or three people you would connect with?” (put them in your shoes)
- “What advice would you give your 20-year-old self, about to graduate?”
- “Do you know of any great organizations in ______ field that I should connect with?” (This is a good final question – make sure you have time to ask it!)
- Follow up: Send a thank you note and stay in touch.
Take a lot of chances and don’t discount anyone! You never know where you will get that solid lead that can ultimately result in a job offer.
4. Networking hacks
Remember: Networking is a conversation. The usual first question, “what do you do?” can break the ice and be a natural transition into networking. But it’s also great to ask more original questions that encourage story sharing:
- “What brings you here tonight?”
- “Have you been to one of these events before? How did you find it?”
- “I’ve read about [topic/research/trend] have you followed it at all? What do you think?”
- “What are you most interested in at the moment?”
- “It was great talking to you. May I connect with you on LinkedIn?”
Have a prepared phrase about yourself: “I’m a senior studying Public Health Practice, I’m really passionate about ______ and I’m looking for an internship in the field of ______ for the spring.”
Nervous about networking? Start with Terrapins Connect — a kind of “LinkedIn Light” – of UMD alumni open to helping other Terps. At an event, go with a buddy and pace yourself. Talk to a new person and then take a short break. Challenge yourself to meet someone new and don’t forget to thank people for chatting.
Still unsure? Take the Informal Interviewing Module via ELMS Open Learning.
5. LinkedIn lessons
LinkedIn is the biggest career connecting platform in the world and an essential part of your job search. Don’t lose out on opportunities:
- Update your profile (even a basic profile is better than none)
- Join groups, to connect with trends and people in your target area. Be part of conversations without having to be directly connected to others.
- Search for people in your desired field. Free searches are limited so consider searching in other windows and other ways to maximize your account.
- LinkedIn gives limited space to tailor your request to connect with someone. So simply say something about your connection: e.g. “Hi, I’m a fellow Terp, a junior studying public health. I’d love to connect with you professionally.” Let them accept your connection first.