Tips for Applying for Jobs

As a student with an array of current and previous job positions, I have learned a thing or two over the years about applying for jobs. While there is never a guaranteed way to secure a job, there are many things students can do to make themselves appear as strong applicants. This can include educational honors and recognitions, extensive community service, impressive previous work experience and much more. I have listed below a few tips I have found to be useful when applying for jobs, and while I understand that college life can be overwhelming, there is no time like the present to apply!

Resumes and Cover Letters

For most jobs, a resume and cover letter can be required. However, if it is optional, it is still strongly recommended that students include both along with their application for their desired job or position. A resume allows employers to gain a better understanding of your student’s academics, as well as their relevant work experience, and a cover letter provides information as to why your student would excel in that particular role. For assistance with constructing resumes, check out the NC State Career Development Center’s Resume Examples.

Researching Jobs and Employers

If your student scores an interview with a company or organization, it can be beneficial to research the company before meeting with a representative. This can help your student develop a good understanding of the company, their mission, what the job would entail and more. Conducting research on a particular company is also a good way to generate questions for students to ask employers during interviews in order to learn the employee perspective of the company.

Network, Network, Network!

In today’s day and age, it is not always about WHAT you know: it’s about WHO you know. An ideal way for your student to get involved with a company or organization within their field of study is to connect with someone that works in a desired career field. This can be accomplished in a number of ways, such as reaching out to potential employers using online services like LinkedIn, sending an email to an employer found on a specific company’s website and much more. Another great way for students to connect with potential employers is at Career Fairs, many of which are hosted by NC State. These events invite employers to campus to meet with students and create networking opportunities, so it is encouraged for students to connect with employers during and after the career fairs.

There are many tips students can use when it comes to applying for jobs. The NC State Career Development Center offers a lot of useful resources for students to use, such as the Career Guide, which I have come to find is extremely helpful. Students can also meet with Career Counselors to have guided assistance with finding and applying to jobs, internships, co-ops and more.

Wishing your students the best of luck with their job searches!

• Brianna Marquinez, Parent Ally