George Fox University | Parents | careercorner12-06

careercorner12-06

A Proactive Job Search

Traditional job search methods usually don't work very well. Various studies have revealed that only 15 percent of all job postings are advertised. This means 85 percent are not advertised!* Traditional job search methods frequently used by job seekers include: looking at help wanted ads (newspapers and online), contacting human resource departments and employment agencies, posting one's resume on the Internet , and sending out unsolicited resumes. While one or more of these methods may produce results, they too often do not because they encourage job seekers to be passive in their job search.

Our Career Services office encourages students to be proactive in their job search, utilizing networking and direct contacts. In a recent Wall Street Journal survey, successful job seekers were asked what was the major factor that contributed to their success. More than 90 percent said networking made all the difference.

Right around the corner is our annual "Job Hunter's Success" Workshop (Saturday, January 27 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) This workshop is held early in the semester to allow students time to implement the strategies they learn. Since the average job search takes approximately three to six months, we strongly urge students to begin their search early during the winter term. Workshop topics include: understanding the labor market, utilizing the "hidden" job market, writing an effective cover letter and resume, how to network, and successful interviewing techniques. Back by popular demand, recruiter Doug Rice of Enterprise Rent-A-Car will be our featured employer guest; he will teach students the best interviewing strategies.

Students may sign up for this informative workshop by e-mailing careers@georgefox.edu, calling 503-554-2330, or by stopping by our office in the Stevens Center. Please encourage your student to attend. We truly want our students to have successful job searches prior to graduation. For more information, please visit www.careers.georgefox.edu . Our First Avenue (OLAPC) Career and Graduate School Fair is scheduled for April 4, 2007.

Job Related Sites:
www.workinginoregon.org (WorkSource Oregon Employment Department)
www.ajb.org (America's Job Bank)
www.collegegrad.com
www.quintcareers.com
www.rileyguide.com
www.careerjournal.com
www.qualityinfo.org
www.jobconnect.georgefox.edu

*The Very Quick Job Search , by Michael Farr

Darren L. Noble, Associate Director
Career Services
Stevens 325, ext. 2331
dnoble@georgefox.edu

This page was last updated 3-28-2008 20:37:36.
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