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UMGC Career Connection 8 Tips on How to Tackle the Job Search

Samantha Mitchell
By Samantha Mitchell

Whether you're embarking on your first job or internship search, or you've been through it a few times, the journey can evoke a wide array of emotions. From the excitement and anticipation of new beginnings to the frustration caused by occasional setbacks, feelings of optimism, pride, resilience, anxiety, and even anger may surface. To help you navigate this rollercoaster ride, here are 8 tips to streamline the process and alleviate some of the accompanying stress.

1. Break Your Career Goal Down into Smaller Actionable Goals

Avoid applying to a large number of opportunities at once. Dedicate shorter time blocks of time throughout your week specifically to the job search. This will allow you to specify exactly what goals you want to focus on in your career pathway. Examples:

  • Identify and email 1-2 ÐÒ¸£±¦µ¼º½ alumni professionals each week via  to schedule a 30-minutes meeting for an information interview.
  • Identify and apply to 5-6 positions each week.
  • Attend 1 industry specific or skills building opportunity.

2. Set-Up Notifications and Alerts

When possible, set automatic job notifications and/or alerts to be notified when a position opens that meets your requirements.

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3. Establish Good Record Keeping Techniques 

Utilize productivity and tracking tools, such as Microsoft Excel, , or , to create tracking documents to keep you organized. You’ll want to keep detailed records to track your applications, such as the information in the below table:

Job Application Tracking
Application InfoDatesPhone Screening & Interview
  • Title of position
  • Full organization name 
  • Website link
  • Platform used to submit your application
  • Goals & statement 
  • Applied to the position
  • Heard back from the organization whether communication was about next steps or rejection
  • Phone screening
  • Interview(s)
  • If/when you sent a thank you follow-up
  • Who you spoke with & their email addresses
  • What questions were asked by the recruiter/hiring manager 
  • Your questions
  • Your reflections & observations

4. Save Position Descriptions

Download and  of position descriptions you apply to.

5. Keep a Master Resume

This should be a running document that tracks the entirety of your work history, duties, and responsibilities. As you create your tailored document, you can draw from this to make it easier. 

6. Use VMock

Utilize  to tailor your resume and practice your interview skills.

7. Grow Your Skills & Knowledge

Stay up-to-date on your industry skills and research new trends or software.

  • Utilize to gain experience by completing short, real-world, company-backed online projects.
  • Research professional associations & certificates.

8. Schedule Rest Days

Like marathon trainers, schedule time throughout your week for rest days. Go out and do something that gives you joy and helps you build a support network.

When armed with the right strategies, the job search becomes a manageable journey toward positive professional growth. By implementing the tips provided, you can navigate through challenges with confidence and ultimately land in a position that aligns with your goals and aspirations. Embrace the journey, stay positive, and keep pushing forward!