Getting to know the students individually and asking them one-on-one about their past work history; why they chose this career field; and ultimately where they would like to work helps me find employment opportunities that are a good fit for them. We discuss the specific environment(s) they want to be working in and then I help them find those specific job opportunities. Once they see the relevance of the targeted job search, they are able to focus on finding the right opportunity.
Of course this is coupled with a targeted cover letter and resume that they have also created and know how to use. Once they have the tools they need to look, much of the fear of the job search is eliminated (they are armed with everything the need to successfully look for a rewarding job).
Rachel,
I agree with this; it's so easy to get consumed with the search and go and go and get discouraged and burned out very quickly.
Elizabeth Kemler
Michael,
I like that you start off with a slowing down and focusing on the process.
Elizabeth Kemler
Sitting down indiviually and really finding out about the person and what employment options best fit them. Too often students are blinded by the idea of I just need a job or that place is not for me cause I have heard things. Dispell any rumors or thoughts they may have and let them know to really focus the job search on what is best for them not everyone else. Remind them of why they came to school and acknowledge how far and well they have done. Let them know you are always here to help support them and they are never alone in this search, they do not need the "me against the world" attitude
To keep my students from getting discourage during a job search I would start them off with time limits. By only searching for a hour or two you would be more focused and only apply to jobs that truly interest you. I also believe it is important to reward effort with rewards. After job searching for a hour or two feel free to watch a television show or hang out with a friend to give yourself a break. It is easier to stay focused when you give yourself breaks. Also I would make sure to tell them that sending out your resume is not the only step to the job search. You have to follow up. Call and always make sure that they have received your resume. Make your interest known. Businesses get busy show them you are motivated. I would remind them to always stay positive. You want to find the right fit for you and that takes time. Sometimes when we least expect it we hear back from the job opportunity that we have been waiting for and following up on.
marsha,
Even better than sharing success stories you know about, having employed graduates coming in to speak can be a very effective motivator.
Elizabeth Kemler
Kallie,
Games are absolutely the way to go. Would love to hear more details if you're willing-would like to share them with other students.
Elizabeth Kemler
Colleen,
This is so true. It really does help to introduce other unrelated topics so it doesn't seem like the job search is everything.
Elizabeth Kemler
meeting with them on a regular basis to see how they are doing, and to see where they are looking for jobs. Encourage them not to give up and share success stories from others to motivate them
In order to keep the resume, cover letter and job search process interesting and as far away from mundane as possible we utilize different games within our workshops and individual student meetings. By creating games like what would your best friend say about you and where do you find peace students get excited and find that resume writing is fun and it is actually quite easy to match an employment option with the environment that is right for the student. These types of games enable them to create objectives and mission statements that truly represent what they have to offer and what they bring to an employer in regard to skill set, personal attributes and all around personality evaluation. By making it a fun process the students are more likely to put additional time and effort into the project. Interesting means intriguing to our students and it seems to work very well.
By tailoring there job search to the area which they are willing to travel. I would also keep them motivated by sending them to employers that my department has built relationships with for faster hiring results.
I stay in contact with students but try to make sure that every conversation is not just about the job search. That's too discouraging and they're already getting that from their mother! I (gently) walk them through what they've done so far, offer suggestions on who they might be able to follow up with, send out new suggestions when I can and try to see which rock we haven't turned over yet. I offer encouraging words when I can, but also some firm direction to those who are just waiting for things to happen.
Pamela,
It sounds like you and your team is really hannds-on and proactive-which I'm sure goes a long way towards supporting your students job search efforts.
Elizabeth Kemler
We keep students motivated by keeping fresh up-to-date job listings, posting listings on our facebook page, calling graduates who have an interest similar to the open position so they can pursue it. For grads who have bad experiences in finding jobs, we encourage them to walk resumes in so employer can put a face to the resume.
I also encourage students to volunteer; it gives them more hands on practice time and it also gives them a chance to network and introduce themselves to prospective "employers". I also tell the students that for their industry, that going in and introducing themselves, with a resume and a business card is the best way to try to secure a position; I also write recommendations for students who need that extra benefit to help them increase their chance of securing a position.
Dakota,
I agree absolutely about the balance approach. Likewise, the volunteering is a great idea. You never know where those things can lead.
Elizabeth Kemler
We happen to be in an industry-segment that is booming, so finding a well paying job is rather easy. Having said that, for graduates who have become licensed and are having a difficult time finding what they want we encourage them to think outside the box, perhaps try volunteering for an organization which they feel passionate about to make some contacts and network. Often just being involved in an activity in which they are utilizing their hands-on skills, doing what they went to school for re-energizes them and reinvigorates their passion to keep looking. It isn't long until many have found their niche, and a job they truly enjoy. We also encourage them to keep things in balance, make sure they take down time; it can't always be about finding a job 100% of the time. Exercise, taking care of the mind and body clears the cobwebs and unblocks.
As many others have already mentioned, scheduling regular meetings with our graduates & staying very upbeat & positive.
Another thing I really like to do is put reminders in my calendar to contact them 3-4 days after our last meeting. Once I get that reminder, I send an encouraging quote or thought on their facebook page. Many have responded positively to this & appreciate the gentle, yet firm reminder not to give up on their goals.
Jennifer,
I really like this idea..offers only upsides.
Elizabeth Kemler
Jason,
"Each no brings them closer to yes" is a fantastic motto-I have to remember this!
Elizabeth Kemler
