Job/Internship Search

Implement the search strategies listed below and create an action plan to get started on your next internship or job search. Check out these search infographics for a quick overview. 

Network to find out about openings

Gaining leads from friends, family, and contacts to identify available positions is the number one most effective search strategy!

Start the conversation with professionals you know
• Make a list of EVERYONE you know, regardless of their profession (i.e. you don’t know who they know!)
• Informational interviews - request 15-20 minutes to learn more about their career path or organization
• Track your progress and follow through on referrals
• Top questions to ask during a “job seeking” informational interview 

Expand your network
• LinkedIn - join groups or review UMD’s alumni page to connect with alumni and employers of interest
• UMD Alumni Advisor Network - connects students with UMD alumni 
• Employer networking events - attend to meet professionals and gain knowledge of openings
• Linktank - offers a listing of off campus events, grouped by professional interests
• Intern - make the most of your internship by requesting informational interviews 
• Intern for a Day - one day shadowing experience that allows students to forge connections
• Career Shuttles - a half day, group experience to visit an organization of interest

 

Target organizations to apply for positions

Identify what type of organizations are of interest and contact (via mail, email, or in person) the organizations to inquire about potential openings, regardless of an advertised position. Research your industry’s hiring trends because this method may not be appropriate to implement in all industries.

Identify organizations of interest and start researching 
• When drafting your list consider these factors
• Identify organizations to target through research
• Use the yellow pages or a google search  to locate organizations based in your area
• Consider using an aggregate job/internship board (i.e. listed above) to narrow the search to organizations in your location who hires individuals with your skill set
• Access hidden positions in federal or state agencies
• Directory of Company Career Centers, by Quintessential
• UMD Library, CRI: Career Resources Information
• Read reviews of the organization- Glassdoor, Indeed, Better Business Bureau
• Vault offers employee reviews, over of company’s culture, etc. (free access to UMD students & alumni)
• Review each of the organizations’ websites to analyze their services, mission statement, etc. 

Make a connection, start a conversation, and make a positive impression
• “Follow” the organization’s website. Many organizations have a You Tube Channel, Twitter handle, LinkedIn Page, or Facebook that you can follow, like, or post engaging comments.
• The University Career Center can help with connections. Review: Careers4Terps Employer Database ● UMD Alumni Advisor Network ● Candid Career ● UMD LinkedIn Alumni Page ● UCC Calendar of Events.

 

Listing Resources

• Engagement opportunities, BSOS co-curricular
• Careers4Terps, UMD’s online job and internship listing database (Orientation video) 
• BSOS Blog features job/internship opportunities (on and off campus)
• On Campus Interview program, interview for off campus positions on campus
• Part-time job positions off and on campus (how to tips)

 

Other Resources