2025-2026 Purdue University Career Success Handbook

Navigating the Job Search

Know Yourself

Create a Powerful Presence Consider Less Popular Organizations • Non-profit, federal government, and small-medium sized companies also have a variety of valuable opportunities for career growth and advancement. • Clearly demonstrate relevant skills in a resume and cover letter. • Focus on accomplishments rather than duties or responsibilities performed. • Tailor requested documents to each job posting or organization. Ask for Assistance • Keep in contact with the employer and individuals in your network. • Contact employers 1.5-2 weeks after submitting your resume to see if they recieved your materials, ask any questions about the position, and reiterate your interest. • Send thank-you notes within a day of working with your contacts. • Don’t be afraid to ask your network for leads and advice. • Talk to your advisor, professors, and peers about possible opportunities. • Check out the CCO website (www.cco. purdue.edu). • Schedule a Job Search Strategies appointment to speak with a CCO Representative. • Expect 6 months or more to obtain a position. • Adopt 3-4 ways to conduct your job search and rotate them when you reach a roadblock. • Periodically focus your energy on other tasks/hobbies. Be Patient and Positive Maintain a Presence

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• Identify your interest, skills, and values. • Be prepared to communicate your skills

and accomplishments to potential employers verbally and in writing.

Create an Action Plan

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Develop a Network • Create a list of target companies that match your interests, skills, and values. • Research each organization and the available career opportunities. • Set, track, and make short-term goals, urgent deadlines, and small milestones. • Join professional associations and alumni clubs. Maintain regular contact with those you meet. • Read and comment on blogs or articles in key interest areas. • Utilize social media to connect with other professionals in your areas of interest. • Contact various companies to conduct informational interviews. • Consider volunteering, part-time work, co-ops, or internships. • Investigating teaching, unpaid, and federal positions • Think about Teach for America, City Year, and Americorps, etc. Obtain Experience

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Be Open-Minded

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• Be open to possibilities outside of your particular degree field, and focus on developing valuable skills even if it’s not your “dream job.” • Broaden your search to a variety of

geographic locations, part-time or contract work, and starting salary options.

8 Career Success

THE JOB SEARCH