Career Search

You may receive a different response from each position you apply for.  You might work through the steps below and accept an offer very quickly or it may be a long arduous set of tasks and challenges.  Many times, you may end your pursuit of a position due to other reasons or in some instances, the employer will end the pursuit (they will go with “another candidate” or lose funding for the position).  In any case, be sure to contact Career Services for assistance whether you are struggling or succeeding in your search.  

SEARCH CYCLE 

Step One:  Identifying Internships/Job Leads to apply for
Once you have identified the type of career path you would like to take (Career Options), you will need to apply for open opportunities (Job Search Titles).  While active in your search, it is recommended that you aim to apply to at least 15 jobs per week.  That sounds exhausting!  But, once you have identified 5-10 companies (Columbus Area Companies to Follow) of interest and have created a profile on their website, subsequent applications will be quick!    Follow these companies on Twitter or LinkedIn or other social media platforms. 
 
Step Two:  Apply
Be sure to tweak your resume and cover letter so that it best matches the description of the job to which you are applying.  See Career Search Documents for additional information.
 
Step Three:  Follow-up
Is there a Recruiter’s email or phone number included in the job posting?  Many times this information is included on the LinkedIn posting. Have you met a recruiter or hiring manager with the company in question at a recent Career Fair or event on campus (or elsewhere)?  If not, check your LinkedIn community.  Do you know someone who is a 1st or 2nd connection that might have additional information or feedback regarding your application status?  Are you able to check the status of your application through your career portal on the company’s website?
 
Step Four:  Interview
Phone:  Sounds easy?  In reality, an interview conducted over the phone can rattle your nerves more than an in-person interview.  Practice with a friend or family member.   Schedule a time to call your Career Advisor for practice and immediate feedback. 
 
Here are a few articles with many helpful tips:
 
 
Step Five:  In-Person Interview
Practice!  Practice!  Practice!  Schedule a Mock Interview with Career Services even if you do not have an interview in the near future!  Take advantage of the on-campus events to practice!  Preparing the answers for some of the most common questions may help you!  Utilize examples from both your classroom and professional/job experience!  Practice but do not be robotic!  Take a few deep breaths and do not hesitate to ask the interviewer to repeat the question or to clarify something.
 
Here are a few articles to help you get started:
 
Don’t forget to research the company, too!  LinkedIn has great information!  Many employers have very detailed LinkedIn profiles.  You are also able to look for Ohio State Economics alumni that may be employed there.
 
Prepare a list of questions to ask (this shows that you took the time to prepare and have a keen interest in the company too).
 
Step Six:  Follow-Up/Thank You
Everyone gets a thank you! A simple email to the interviewer or recruiter may do the trick, but a lot of recruiters love to receive a hand-written card, too!  Be sure to get the email off to the interviewer as soon possible after your meeting!  Start writing the thank you note before your meeting and finish it after the meeting (add a note regarding something you discussed regarding the job opportunity). You can hand it into the receptionist or mail it. 
 
Samples:
 
 
Step Seven:  Negotiations
Congratulations on your job offer!  Now the fun begins…what if you do not like the salary or location (perhaps a global company would like you to start in London)?  How do you proceed without losing the offer?  Research!  

Step Eight:  Yay!  I have a New Job!  
Congratulations on your new position! Be sure to share the details with Career Services or your Career Advisor. We will not share your personal information. It will used for internal reports only.
 

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