Employment Guide

Job Search Documents

Co-op, Internship & Job Search Checklist We’re sure you’ve heard that job searching is harder now than ever, but keep in mind that there’s never, at any time, been a situation where a person clicks on a website, applies and just gets the first job. Job searching requires a lot of work and effort. Follow these steps to make the best use of your time and effort.

Step 1: Develop an effective resume and cover letter Review resume and cover letter writing materials found in this Employment Guide or on our website. Have your resume and cover letter critiqued by a career counselor. STEP 2: Upload your resume on Handshake Handshake.uwstout.edu STEP 3: Network for co-ops, internships and professional careers Let family, relatives, and friends know that you are looking for Attend career conferences to network with employers you met at previous conferences and to find “hidden” opportunities. Contact employers you’ve met through open houses, student organizations, and previous work experience. Join LinkedIn and other professional social networking sites. Review Handshake for employer contact information. Contact Stout Alumni in your major. a co-op, internship, or professional position. Let faculty and staff know that you are looking. Conduct informational interviews. See “Informational Interviewing” in this guide or the “Networking” or “Professional Positions” sections on our website. Join Professional Associations related to your major. For additional information, review the “Networking” section on our website. STEP 4: Pursue advertised Co-ops, Internship & Professional positions Check Handshake for: • On-campus interview schedule • Co-op, internship, or job posting. • GoinGlobal • Reference USA and more Check “Co-op and Internship Resources” and “Professional Positions” in the student section on the Career Services Website to find:

• Career Conferences (Also see the list of Career Fairs around the region you can attend.) • Federal, state, local job or co-op and internship opportunities • Education majors: job search resources • Veterans and other military affiliated • Diverse student resources (for multicultural, international, LGBTQIA+ and other diverse students) Check the following “spidering” job search engines: • Indeed.com • LinkedIn jobs STEP 5: “Prospect” for Co-ops, Internships, & Professional Positions in Desired Geographic Areas See “Prospecting” job search method in this guide or in the “Networking” and “Professional Positions”sections on our website. Use “ReferenceUSA” to identify organizations you would like to prospect within a desired geographic area. ReferenceUSA is a web based organization research tool available on Handshake. STEP 6: Prepare for interviews Review interviewing skills information in this guide or the Interviewing section of our website. Complete a mock interview with a counselor in Career Services or virtually using “InterviewStream.” Research the organization and position via their website or ReferenceUSA. See “Researching Employers for Successful Interviews” in this guide. Know your worth; review salary information found on page 54. STEP 7: Evaluate the interview and follow up Send a thank you letter and follow up with employers you interview with. See “Cover Letters and other Job Search Letters” in this guide or on our website for examples. Review “Offers and Negotiations” in this guide and on our website to learn about benefits, salary and more!

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