Plan for Your Career

One part of a successful job search is to implement a strategy. Below is a 10-step process. Reference this timeline for more specific information.

  1. Use this list to review jobs and internships to learn more about roles and apply to opportunities. Activate your Elon Job Network account to search for jobs and internships. Many organizations offer post-graduate fellowships/internships/programs with application deadlines earlier in the school year; use this list to review these opportunities.
  2. Know your preferences: Where do you want to be? What qualifications do you have? What kind of company culture are you looking for.
  3. Internship: Make sure you have one or more.
  4. Cover letter: Should be one page, tailored and error-free. Use the name of the recruiter.
  5. Resume: It’s time to sell yourself. List your skills, work experience, awards, etc on one page. Tailor it for the position to which you are applying.
  6. ePortfolio: Create an online portfolio to showcase your best work to employers. Include the link on your resume.
  7. Research: Learn all you can about the organizations you are applying to.
  8. Interview: Dress well. Bring your resume. Ask questions. Take notes.
  9. Thank you: Send a thank you email within 24 hours and a thank you note within 48 hours of the interview. Briefly review your skills and touch upon something the recruiter said in the interview.
  10. Learn from your experience: If you don’t get the job, still thank the employer and ask what you can do to better your chances for the future. Consider reapplying to the organization later.

For more information, visit the Career Services website.