Monday, January 2, 2012

Resolution #1: Find Job

For many Knauss fellows, January is crunch time on the job front.  Still haven't landed your dream gig?  Don't worry, you're not alone.  The lean budget climate and the holiday festivities have dampened the job search and many of us are still anxiously awaiting to hear what interviews and excitement January will hold.  We're all so excited for those among us who have accepted offers (congrats Andy, Colin, and many others who have made steps toward securing contracts with their hosts!) and no longer have to worry!  If that isn't true for you, never fear - job hunting tips are here!


  • Develop a top-notch resume: if you missed the career development workshop in September, ask around and find someone to forward you the information.
  • Be strategic: if you are braving USA Jobs, don't forget to match your resume to the words in the job announcement.
  • Use RSS feeds to your advantage!  Did you know that not only can you create email notifications in USA jobs, but you can even get RSS feed updates to your Google (or other internet) Reader.  Use this technique on the job pages of other nonprofits in the area.
  • Share information: talk with your friends, family, peers, and colleagues about what you're thinking, what you've seen open, and who you haven't heard from.  It's always good to sympathize with others sharing your stresses.
  • Cast a wide net and think outside the box: don't limit yourself to your comfort zone - the walmarts and Exxon-Mobils of the world need smart and environmentally-minded employees too!
  • Remember to dress and act the part: always live the job that you want next.  
  • Create incentives: when reaching out to your network of contacts that we have all worked so hard to nurture, remember to offer something in return (coffee, lunch, secrets of the trade, etc). 
  • Think before you leap: we've all worked really hard to imagine and then position ourselves into a dream job, so don't be too hasty to settle for something less.  If you're not sure whether you could enjoy the job, ASK if there is room to explore your passions and grow within the office. 
  • Lastly, always stay positive - nobody wants to hire a sourpuss!

Cheers to the search, and let us know when you hear about your next steps so we can celebrate.


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