Job Search Tips: What You Need to Know

In today’s world, most job applications are submitted online. Thankfully, there are many websites—such as LinkedIn—where you can search, view and apply for numerous career opportunities. You can also create your own profile, highlighting your career successes, education background and other details for any recruiters who might be seeking out professionals with your unique qualifications.

If there is a specific company you know you want to work for, make it a point to regularly review their website as well. Many corporate websites provide up-to-date job postings and comprehensive information about the company. Acquiring knowledge about a potential employer is important in determining whether a career with that company might be a good fit, as well as providing insights you can use in an interview.

In some cases, your résumé can make the difference between securing that all-important interview or getting passed over. This is why one of the most important job hunting tips is to make sure your résumé is in top form—both in format and appearance.

Do your current job title and responsibilities align with your new career objective? Are you trying to secure a position similar to your current job or looking to transition into a new field?

Generally, if you're seeking a position that's considered the next logical move up the organizational chart—where your current job title and skills are applicable to your desired position—a chronological résumé is best. If you're conducting a transition search—where your current job title and skills are not directly applicable to your objective—a skill-based résumé in which you highlight your achievements will likely be most effective.

While applications are generally submitted online, it's important to have a finely tuned and polished paper résumé to take to the interview. Consider the following tips:

While all interviews are different, it's important that you are prepared to answer some of the most common interview questions.

An interview is a two-way street. While the interviewer is trying to determine how well you’d fit within the organization, you should also be thinking about how well the company and role align with your goals and values. Ask questions that will provide the information you need to thoroughly assess the job and the company. Questions might include:

When it comes to interviewing, there are some basic things you already know you should bring along: a few copies of your résumé (or send it over beforehand if doing a virtual interview), any questions you might have about the company or position and a pen and paper to jot down relevant notes. But gathering these essential items is not the only preparation required. Here are a few more job hunting tips that can help you tackle your interview with confidence:

After your interview and while the conversations are still fresh in your mind, jot down your answers to questions such as:

If a company extends a job offer, you should accept or reject it within 48 hours. Asking for more time may give the impression that you are uncertain about the role or likely to accept a different offer. Nothing is official until you formally accept the job. Therefore, begin evaluating the job and the company the moment you begin the interview—don’t wait until an offer is presented.

Salary research relevant to the industry and type of position you're pursuing is a critical part of the job search process. However, be aware that many factors affect compensation including:

As a DeVry student, you are offered career services support from the moment you begin your first class. Our certified résumé writers and career coaches are here to help you with refining your résumé, practicing for interviews and providing job search tips.¹ These services also continue after graduation. Contact us to see how we can help you pursue your goals.