The first step in preparing for your career is identifying the skills and experiences required for your field of interest. Understanding these qualifications will help you effectively showcase your strengths in application materials (such as resumes), interviews, and your online presence, while also highlighting areas for growth that can enhance your career success. To build these skills and get prepared, take advantage of the resources available at the Career Center, including your assigned career coach.
Download the Career Conversation Guide
Download the ‘Prepare’ page from the Career Conversation Guide
PREPARE: Questions and Action Steps
- Identify Critical Skills: Identify the NACE Career Readiness skills employers value across all career fields.
- View Job and Salary Data: Learn about job titles, salaries, required skills, and educational requirements for careers using the Job and Salary Data tool on the Career Center website.
- Identify Meaningful Experiences: Partner with your career coach and faculty to identify and pursue experiences that employers desire and that align with your career goals. These valuable opportunities can include:
- Internships, student teaching, practicums, clinical experiences, etc.
- Part-time or full-time work experience on or off campus
- Campus involvement (clubs, organizations, athletics, etc.)
- Volunteer work
- Study abroad programs
- Leverage Online Resources: Use the Career Center’s online resources for step-by-step resume, cover letter, and interview guidance and examples.
- Resume and Cover Letter Drafting: Develop or update your resume and cover letter by independently exploring Hiration and other Career Center resources, including helpful guides, checklists, templates, and videos. Consider uploading your resume to Handshake to assist in your internship and/or job search.
- Virtual Interview Practice: Start honing your interview skills and build comfort in the virtual environment by practicing with Hiration’s AI-powered interview feedback tool.
- Schedule a Meeting with a Career Coach: Once you’ve reviewed and implemented Career Center resources, schedule an appointment tailored to your needs.
- Peer Career Coach (Early Stages): Schedule with a student/peer career coach for basic tips and initial feedback on your resume and cover letter.
- Professional Career Coach (Advanced Stages):
- Schedule with a professional career coach for in-depth resume and cover letter reviews, and tailored practice for both in-person and virtual interviews. They can help refine your written and oral communication to better reflect your skills and experiences.
- Build a Digital Presence: Consider creating a LinkedIn profile or digital portfolio to establish a professional online presence. Check with your career coach to ask what works best for your career interests.
- Dress for Success: Develop a professional wardrobe that aligns with industry expectations.
- Need professional attire?
- Explore the Career Center’s clothing closets and ask your career coach about other opportunities.
- Need professional attire?
- Develop a Tailored Search Strategy: Meet with your career coach to develop a customized search strategy aligned with your goals. Learn effective techniques for utilizing Handshake and other industry resources, as well as leveraging events to connect with alumni and employers to discover opportunities.
Once you can answer ‘yes’ to these
questions, you’re ready to Experience!
