Cleveland State University
Career Services Center
2121 Euclid Avenue
Rhodes Tower West 280
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
Campus Location
Rhodes Tower West 280
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Phone: 216.687.2233
Fax: 216.687.9313
careers@csuohio.edu
Web Content Contact
John Scanlan
j.scanlan@csuohio.edu
216.687.2233
Career Search Strategies
There are many factors that influence the length of your job search. Some things you can control and others you cannot. The best thing you can do for yourself is to start early, and there are plenty of ideas to help you in this section.
Approaches to Job Search lists some of the different methods you can use in your search. Many times students concentrate on using job board web sites and consider that several hours of applying on line constitutes a complete job search. Such thinking blinds them to a multitude of techniques that are available.
Job Search Process details the steps you should take when planning your search. If you do these things in order, your search will go much more smoothly and perhaps be successful in a shorter amount of time.
Employment Trends lets you read about the general themes in the current job market and find resources to help you stay on top of the latest developments.
Networking. Have you heard the admonition “Network or don’t work?” Is it truly who you know and not what you know that gets you the job? Not entirely, but those who develop strong networking skills will probably be more likely to be in the right place at the right time when a position opens in their field. Be the person that employers think of when they start asking their colleagues, “Do you know someone who can do this job?”
What Employers Look For. There is great pressure on employers to find the best candidates and there are several very specific characteristics they seek in reviewing candidate credentials. Read this list to see how well you stack against the competition.
Transitions. Remember that graduation is called “Commencement”, which means “beginning.” Graduation marks the end of your academic preparation and the start of your professional career. Be prepared for the change by recognizing the differences between your school and work lives.
CLASS Majors may need some different strategies, due to the nature of their degrees. Students with non technical majors have to be creative in their job search, finding ways to sell their skills and experiences to employers.
Relocation is a consideration for some graduates. Whether you are asked by your employer to relocate, or you are a new graduate open to moving to a different city, you must plan carefully for this transition. Check this list for ideas on making your move.
Employment Agencies and Head Hunters may
not be able to help you, but you should never rely strictly on someone
else to find you a job. Be sure to evaluate their services carefully
before signing any agreements.