Finding a job

Start by evaluating your skills, interests, and values. Before you start applying, think about what kind of job you want. Ask yourself: What am I good at? What do I enjoy doing? What kind of work environment fits me best? Having clear goals helps you focus your search and avoid wasting time on jobs that don’t match your interests. 

Next Steps:

• Make a list of your skills, strengths, and interests. 
• Set short-term and long-term career goals (e.g., “Get an entry-level marketing job” or “Become a project manager in 5 years”).
• Decide on the type of job or industry you want to work in.

Career Services can help:

If you are still having a hard time narrowing down your career goals, visit our Career Exploration page to access online career assessments. After you complete an assessment, you can meet with one of our Career Services staff to further develop your goals.

Next steps: 

• Make a list of people you know who work in your desired field and reach out to them for advice.
• Update or create your LinkedIn profile with a professional photo and clear summary.
• Join LinkedIn groups related to your industry and start engaging with posts.
• Ask a few trusted contacts if they would be willing to serve as references.
• Look for internships, volunteer roles, or short-term projects to build experience.
• Attend local networking events or virtual webinars to meet professionals in your field.

Career Services can help:

If you would like assistance optimizing your LinkedIn profile, schedule a meeting to review LinkedIn with one of our Career Services staff.

Once you know what you want, start looking for jobs that match your goals. Use online, check company websites, and ask friends or family if they know of openings. Pay attention to job descriptions so you understand what employers are looking for.

Going to some of the larger job postings sites, like Indeed or ZipRecruiter, can be overwhelming. It may be better to start local, with job boards like Make It Champaign-Urbana.

Next steps:

• Create accounts on job search websites.
• Bookmark companies you’re interested in and follow them on social media. Check their websites regularly for new postings.
• Read at least 5 job descriptions in your field to learn common requirements.

Career Services can help:

• Make an account with College Central Network, where we post jobs from local employers looking to hire Parkland students.
• Scroll farther down this page for links to many different online job boards.
• Schedule a meeting to make your job search plan. Note: we help you develop your job search goals and strategy in this meetings; we don't do the search for you.

Your resume is your first impression, so make it count. It should clearly show your education, skills, and experience. Use bullet points to make it easy to read. If you already have a resume, update it with your latest experience and achievements.

A cover letter lets you explain why you’re the right person for the job. Keep it short - about one page - and focus on why you want the job and how your skills match what the company needs. Avoid copying the same letter for every job; customize it for each position.

Resume Next Steps:

• Choose a clean, professional resume template.
• Add your most recent work experience or any new skills.
• Review your entire resume to make sure it showcases the skills and experience most related to the types of jobs you are applying for.

Cover Letter Next Steps:

• Write a draft that includes your interests in a particular job and highlights your top skills.
• Research the companies you are applying to, and include something specific about them in your cover letter.
• Proofread for spelling and grammar before sending

Career Services can help:

• Visit our office for resume templates - we have many tailored to specific career fields.
• Make an appointment with a one of our Career Services staff to review your resume and/or cover letter draft.

Next steps:

• Apply to at least 3–5 jobs each week.
• Keep a list of the jobs you applied for and the dates.
• Save copies of your resume and cover letter for each application. Try and save the job description with them.

Next steps:

• Write down answers to 3–5 common interview questions.
• Research the company’s website and recent news.
• Do a practice interview with a friend or family member.

Career Services can help:

You can schedule a mock interview appointment with a Career Services staff member to do a practice interview. Treat this appointment like the real thing - come prepared, bring your resume, and bring a copy of the job description. We will ask you questions and give feedback on how to strengthen your preparation.

After an interview, send a thank-you email to show you appreciate their time. Keep track of the jobs you applied for and any responses you get. Staying organized helps you know what’s next and keeps you from missing opportunities.

Next steps:

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview.
• Let your references know that they may expect to get a call.
• Update your job application list with interview dates and notes.
• Check your email regularly for responses and reply promptly.