1. Job Search Strategies Tips for identifying potential jobs: Create a personal Action Plan

2. Locate Potential Jobs • Network, network, network… • 67% of all jobs are gotten through networking • Keep an expanding list of potential contacts • Make a list of all the companies that hire your type of position. • Book of lists • Yellow Pages

3. Build Your Contact List • Make a list of co-workers, instructors, classmates, etc • Let all your friends and family know that you are looking for a job in… • Ask them for names of people you can contact

4. Public Sources • Check the weekly business calendar • Business section of the Sunday paper • Look at association websites for calendar of events. • Attend local events, meetings, workshops, etc. • Take along your own business cards.

5. More… jobs leads • Web based information: • Warning: Limit the use of the internet to no more than 20% of your job search time. • Go to company web sites – see SBA link to NW companies www.careersvcs.sba.pdx.edu • Search association web-sites • Monster, Flip Dog, etc – use sparingly! • Only 4-8% of jobs are gotten from these • Classified ad’s • SBA list serve • PSU – Career Center www.career.pdx.edu

6. Set-up Informational Interviews • Meet with people doing the type of work you want to do • Learn about what is happening in their industry, company, etc. • Ask them for names of other people to contact.

7. Develop “YOU & Co.” plan • It is a job to find a job. • Action results in action. • It’s a numbers game the more people you contact the sooner you will find the right position. • Create a job search activity calendar • Record and track your contacts / follow-up. • Keep a list of companies and people to contact. • This list is always expanding • Begin NOW…

8. Use Broadcast Letters • Contact a potential employers to let them know what you offer and you interest in exploring opportunities with their company. • Good strategy when you are trying to locate a position in another city. • I’ll be in your area the week of ….and would like to set-up a time to meet.

9. Keep your job search alive • Always follow up when someone gives you the name of a contact person. • Call the contact • Send thank you notes or e-mails for interviews and contact sources. • Touch base with the employer to see where they are in the hiring process.

10. Tips for handling telephone interviews • Be prepared - take time to set the stage. • Go to another room and have materials in front of you • Job announcement, resume, questions to ask • Stand up when talking – more animated; lively. • Look in the mirror – your smile will come through in your voice. • Treat the recruiter like a colleague – get his/her input on the company needs and current concerns.

11. When an offer is extended • Thank them then ask for it in writing. • Confirms the details of the offer • Buys you time to make a decision • Take time to evaluate the offer. • Know what the current range is for the position • Know your own salary / life style needs • You can negotiate for more than just salary • Time off, company lap top, moving expenses, education reimbursement, etc

12. Accepting an offer • Call to let the recruiter know of your decision to accept. • Follow-up with a letter of acceptance or e-mail confirmation. • Include the details of the position, start date and compensation.