Notes on a Job, for Lo

As my dear friend and co-blogger, Lo, is soon to graduate and embark into the world of job searching, I thought I may add a few gems I've discovered along the way. While I haven't necessarily been offered that full-time job yet, I do feel I'm getting closer everyday.

In so many words:

1. Network, network, network
2. The benefits of networking (getting involved) takes time.
3. Work the part-time jobs that will give you relevant experience.
4. Looking for a full-time job? Let the world know!
5. Perfect that resume.
6. Get that resume out there.
7. Ask about career pathways.
8. Talk to friends about your job hunting.
9. Let yourself have fun.
10. Be grateful.

In exquisite, explicit detail after de jump!


1. Network, network, network.
Of course everyone will tell you to do this. But what I want you to glean is that networking comes in many shapes and sizes. Get involved in the things you enjoy and you'll develop skills in that area in addition to a network that could help you find a job that you, too, will enjoy. Get involved in the things you're good at, too! Again you'll meet people and they'll appreciate what you bring to the table.

2. The benefits of networking (getting involved) takes time.
Essentially, you have to view this as an investment. It takes time to get to know people well enough for them to stick their necks out for you. So keep doing what you do best (and/or what you enjoy most) and remember that it will pay off in the long run.

3. Work the part-time jobs that will give you relevant experience.
Three benefits for working these types-o-jobs:

a. The people: Sure it's another networking device. But I've found the people you work for part-time are grateful that you're able to work this kind of specialized type work for them part-time. The economy's tough, full-time positions are frozen, and it's nice to get extra help (in the form of you) along the way. Not only do you get experience, you help your boss get the job done. Which is a win-win, lending itself to a pleasant work experience. Finally, keep in mind your boss could potentially make a great reference or a wonderful full-time boss someday.

b. The experience: Yep, you get to put this on your resume. That's one more job full of skills that make you an asset to your future full-time employer. It also gives you some excellent stories for your interviews because you're continuing to get experience that is applicable to your upcoming job.

c. The money: Guess what? These types-o-jobs require your specialized skills and knowledge from getting a degree in school. That means you'll get paid more for your time than if you opted to work just anywhere.

4. Looking for a full-time job? Let the world know!
Don't assume that everyone knows or will even remember that you're looking for a full time job. Be assertive and let it be known, "I'm looking for full-time work." Shout it from the rooftops if you have to! The most opportunity for me has come out me simply telling people that while I am working part-time jobs, my ultimate goal is getting a full-time position in the near term.

5. Perfect that resume.
Set aside the time to develop an ultimate resume for your skills. You might want to spend an afternoon honing in on the format and design of your resume. And then spend another afternoon creating specialized resumes. For example I developed 2 major resumes because of my varied background. One is a scientific resume detailing my relevant engineering coursework, software, prototyping skills, and experiences. The other is a non-profit resume with all of my global health and public health experiences. When submitting a resume, always tailor, combine, and/or edit your base resumes to fit the job.

6. Get that resume out there.
It's great when people ask you for your resume - email it away! However, I got a hit from a staffing agency where I put my resume months and months ago. So if there are any companies/organizations of interest that will hold onto your resume, go ahead and post a solid one there. If applicable, include your relevant coursework in case that contain a buzz word that may grab someone's attention.

7. Ask about career pathways
In the people you network, volunteer, and work (and craft) with...ask them how they got where they are.

a. If you're not getting the job now, you'll learn what kinds of experiences you should get to help you get the job later.

b. You'll get ideas from how they got their foot in the door at the company.

c. You'll get some nifty info for that next stage in education should you choose to accept it...graduate school. I guarantee you'll learn about academic programs you never knew existed that might interest you!

d. The more psychological response - the more interest you invest in someone else, the more interest they'll invest in you! Hopefully helping you get that job!

8. Talk to friends about your job hunting.
Ideally, talk to the people who are there or have been there. It's just nice to talk to them vs people who haven't been there. They can offer you suggestions for how to look for, apply for, and get jobs. Not only are they resourceful in those respects, they get it, understand what you're going through, and supply support rather than pressure to get a job.

9. Let yourself have fun.
It's easy to fall into the "unworthy" mindframe. Ie: I can't go out to dinner friends, watch this movie, or buy this t-shirt until I get a job. Of course, there are limits when you're on a tight budget and yes you'll be plenty aware of this if you're looking for work for awhile. But allow yourself some wiggle room to enjoy yourself and not feel guilty about it. Balance is key!

10. Be grateful.
This final one could easily say be patient. But I think it's a given. Being grateful isn't as obvious. You will get frustrated and you might cry or collect rejection letters. It's a sign of the times - not of your inability. Don't take job hunting personally. Rather, be grateful you've been able to get the education and experience you have so far. As you get opportunities to meet with people or work part-time jobs. Celebrate and be grateful! If people say they wish they could hire you full-time...be grateful! It's not a full-time job, but you're getting closer! As you look around you and realize what an awesome web of friends and family you have...be grateful! It certainly isn't easy when things are tough, but it's been a rewarding, unseeming lesson in looking for a job. (Or jerb, as Brian calls it.)