Finding your First Professional Job After Graduation

Taking a Design Approach to Your Career

Practice patience throughout your career journey.

• The process of searching for the right opportunity can be time-intensive and may require considerable effort and perseverance. It is crucial to remember that building a successful career is a marathon, not a sprint. By understanding that progress takes time, you can avoid becoming discouraged or disheartened during the job search process and remain focused on your long-term goals.

Identify a reasonable and adjustable timeline for your search.

• While you may be eager to secure a new position quickly, it is important to consider that organizations have their own processes and timelines for hiring. It is crucial to be patient and understanding, allowing the hiring process to unfold naturally. Rushing or becoming frustrated can hinder your chances of securing the best opportunity for your career growth. By aligning your expectations with the employer's timeline, you demonstrate professionalism and respect for the hiring process, increasing your chances of success.

Set Realistic Goals

• Follow the 80-20 rule: It is rare to find someone that loves 100% of the tasks they do in a role.  It's important to be realistic about the balance you find in a role of interest. Consider positions where you like 80% of the tasks you are performing while the 20% may not be your favorite. 
• Begin by setting clear, realistic, and achievable goals for your career. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps that you can work on consistently. This approach helps you maintain focus, track progress, and prevents overwhelm or discouragement--Check out our "Get Focused' Section!

Embrace flexibility and adaptability.

• Understand that career paths are rarely linear. Embrace flexibility and be open to exploring different opportunities, even if they deviate from your original plan. Adaptability allows you to navigate unexpected changes and seize new possibilities that can lead to exciting career advancements.
• Practice positivity in the face fo challenges and setbacks. Rather than viewing every occurrence as a failure, it is essential to see them as valuable learning experiences that can help you improve and become better prepared for the eventual "landed" opportunity. Maintaining a positive attitude allows you to approach obstacles with resilience and optimism, which can significantly contribute to your personal and professional development.

Practice Self-Reflection.

• The job and internship search journey is not a one and done experience.  All your positions are experiences that connect together to create your career journey. Regularly take time for self-reflection to assess your values, strengths, and interests. Understand what motivates and fulfills you professionally. This self-awareness will guide your career decisions and help you align your goals with your passions. 

Practice self-care.

• Incorporate self-care activities into your routine, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, or spending time in nature. Taking care of your well-being enhances your ability to make sound career decisions and cope with stress effectively. 

Celebrate achievements.

• Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments along the way, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing your progress and milestones boosts your confidence and motivation, reinforcing a positive mindset.

Seek support and guidance.

• Use the many resources we have available for you on our webiste.  But also know that if you reach a point of being stuck or needing clarity, it can be beneficial to talk with others. Reach out to mentors, faculty, staff, or our career advisors who can offer guidance and support. Having someone to share your aspirations, challenges, and achievements with can provide valuable insights and help you stay motivated during the career planning process.

• Identify my Values, Interests, & Strengths
• Choosing & Changing Majors Handbook 
• Picture Your Career Handbook
• Wheel of Career
• Reflecting on Your Skills that Employers Want
• Creating a Personal Brand
• Using Authenticity to Build Professional Relationships
• Honor Yourself and Others: Skills for Inclusive Conversations

The Challenge Mindset: Finding Purpose and Impact as you Explore

Research current openings to get ideas!

• Handshake 
  • VIEW OUR GUIDE TO JOB SEARCHING ON HANDSHAKE
• Career and Job Search Links by Major
• Attend a career fair on campus and build up your network.
  • VIEW OUR GUIDE TO REGISTERING FOR EVENTS & CAREER FAIRS ON HANDSHAKE

Gather data and information about career fields.

• Employers by Major

• O*Net
• Occupational Outlook Handbook
• What Can I Do With This Major?

Connect with Professionals for more insights.

• LinkedIn
• Conduct Informational Interviews

• Stay Organized During your Search
• Decision Making Worksheet
• Benchmark Salary Ranges
• Defining and Achieving Professional Goals
• Managing Your Career: Early Career
• Coaching Yourself to Career Success
• What is Career Management?
• Strategies to Improve Self-Awareness
• Examples of Personal Career Goals

Build your Skills

Discover Skills Employers Want

• Part-Time Job Search: On- and Off-Campus
• Finding Your Work-Study Job
• Get Involved in Activities & Organizations 
• Engage with Professional Organizations
• Interships & Co-Ops
• Gig Economy, Freelancing, and Side Hustles
• LinkedIn Learning
• Maverick Diversity Institute
• Career Events
  • Event Navigation: How to Register for Career Fairs and Events
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving Skills in the Workplace

Communicate Your Skills

• Create Resumes, Cover Letters and Other Application Materials
• Find Examples and Guides in the Job Search Handbook
• Interviewing
• Networking & LinkedIn
• Job Skills Transfer Assessment Tool

Securing the Position

• Negotiating Your Salary
• Navigating my Identity in the Job/Internship Search
• Circle back to your goals and decision making advice in the "Get Focused" Section