Create a Plan of Action with Many Pathways to Job Search Success

Do not rely on just one path when job searching!

Only about 20% of the jobs out there are advertised, so do not pick just one method of job searching. Use your network and multiple job search strategies.

Figure out the geographic location of where you want to end up and start to identify prospective employers to contact.

Start with 25-50 targeted employers (identified during the research phase), contact them, and follow-up.

Be sure to write a strategic cover letter and resume specified to a role(s) in that specific organization that interests you.
Point out what you have to offer to the organization, and that you are seeking employment specifically with them (as opposed to a mass mailing of the same cover letter and resume to many organizations).
Target your cover letter and resume to a specific member of the organization, if possible.

Chambers of Commerce websites can be a good place to start with identifying local businesses (there is often an online directory of Chamber members).

Online Job Search

Big job boards
Niche job boards (career specific)
Professional Association websites
Employer websites – besides job listings, there should be a wealth of information about the organization that can be helpful when preparing a cover letter, resume, and eventually for an interview
HawkQuest (through UWW Career & Leadership Website)