Check out these quick and timely tips from GAA Career Coach Catherine Tuttle.
Sept. 2020 – Treat the Job Search like a Job
Create a schedule: When you have a job, you are expected to show up every day. Take this approach when looking for a job and commit to a certain number of hours per week. Then block them on your calendar. A few hours a day four or five days a week is a great start. Set your alarm, get up at a designated time, get in a workout, and then get to ‘work’. If you’re looking while employed, try blocking out an hour or so two or three days a week either in the evenings or over lunch.
Assign yourself tasks: If you’re a recent graduate, make sure you’re monitoring postings on Handshake. If you’re more seasoned, set up job alerts and search on LinkedIn. Either way, for online postings, make sure you’re tailoring your resume for each position ensuring key words are included and easy to find. For more on that process and maximizing your chances when applying online, I suggest watching our virtual coffee chat recording from August.
Make yourself visible: Visibility within and outside your organization is incredibly important when it comes to building your skillset and building your brand. The more people that know who you are and what you’re capable of, the more opportunities come your way. This concept holds true when you’re looking for your first job as well. In my experience, almost every college graduate gets their first job through a human connection. That could be a recruiter at a (virtual) job fair, a family friend, or another UNC alum. Don’t just rely on job boards and online applications; you’ll be relying on technology and technology doesn’t always work.
Push yourself outside of your comfort zone: We don’t grow staying inside our comfort zone. Submitting online applications is safe, but it’s also passive. Putting yourself out there and becoming more than an online application is scary. Believe me, I’ve been there, but I promise it gets easier. UNC has one of the most incredible alumni networks I’ve seen over the past 15 years. If asking for information or advice from someone you don’t know is intimidating, start with the Tar Heel Advising Network, an online platform where alumni can volunteer to be a resource for other alumni in transition.
Build in rewards: The job search typically takes between three to six months and that timeline can be extended in times of economic uncertainty. It is a marathon, not a sprint so treat it as such. Celebrate the milestones to keep yourself motivated. That could be dinner with a friend, a day off, or an ice-cream treat for dessert. Acknowledge your hard work and celebrate your wins whether it’s securing an interview, connecting with an alum in a company of interest, or simply showing up every day!
Utilize your resources: In these uncertain times, the GAA has extended career coaching for members. We can help with everything from resume updates to job search strategy, networking and more. Included in your GAA membership is a complimentary career coaching session once every 12 months (a $150 value). For an extended time, we are offering additional coaching sessions complimentary to GAA members. Learn more, or email us at alumnicareers@unc.edu to schedule your appointment today.