Module 03: Job Search
3.1 Introduction and Learning Outcomes
This section could be helpful if you:
- Already have a good understanding and awareness of your skills
- Are seeking resources such as job search sites and social media
- Would like to learn about the hidden job market
- Would like to learn more about how to create a strong resume
- Would like to create a networking pitch in order to market yourself to employers
- Want to improve your job interview skills
Introduction
Once you’re satisfied that you’ve completed enough career research, you can begin the job search stage, developing strategies and tools to help you stay motivated and engaged. This stage can be daunting as jobseekers can often feel alone and vulnerable. It’s hard to “put yourself out there” and face the very real possibility of rejection.
If you’re a member of an equity-seeking group, the job search can be even more stressful. Students of colour must learn to navigate the job search process while taking into account discrimination in recruitment and persistent racial inequities in the workplace.
Students who identify as 2SLGBTQQIA+ may face greater challenges above and beyond the typical stresses associated with job search. They may need to weigh the pros and cons of “coming out” during the job application process or at work (workplace disclosure) or identify 2SLGBTQQIA- friendly workplaces where their gender identity and career aspirations would be supported. While there is no “one size fits all” approach to handling these issues, they can greatly increase the stress associated with job search.
International students, newcomers and immigrants may face challenges related to limited professional networks, a lack of understanding or value assigned by employers to their previous experience and foreign credentials as well as barriers related to language and immigration status. The courage and drive that propelled students and newcomers to leave their country of origin and study or work abroad and the many skills needed to navigate a new culture are directly transferable to the job search context. Leveraging feedback from mentors, employment advisors, instructors and job finding clubs, among others, can go a long way to support you in the job search.
With an open and positive mindset, the job search phase can be an exciting chapter in your life. It’s where the “rubber hits the road” and you can begin to test out your career ideas and ask for constructive feedback from others.
Learning Outcomes
In this module, you’ll learn how to:
- Recognize the importance of the hidden job market
- Explore online job sites in order to apply for positions you’re interested in and qualified for
- Develop effective in-person and online networking skills
- Write an effective résumé and cover letter that will get past screening technology (applicant tracking systems)
- Utilize Big Interview to practice for job interviews, including video interviews
- Build a professional portfolio to present to prospective employers
- Develop strategies of when and how to disclose limitations and request accommodations
- Recognize job ads that could be fraudulent
- Integrate career resilience approaches to help you deal with setbacks
