How to search for a job or internship

Searching for a job can be a time-consuming process that takes effort and effective planning. We advise that you begin your job search at least 3 to 4 months prior to your desired start date. With an active job or internship search, you may have to submit 20 or 30 applications each week even when qualified for the prospective positions. The key to remain positive and optimistic throughout the process.

Handshake

Ilitch School Career Services makes finding job and internship applications easy with Handshake. We ensure that the jobs posted through this system are good opportunities for our business students. Remember that while many companies recruit all year round, some jobs and internships follow specific fall and winter recruiting patterns. That being said, it is very important to start early!

While applying online is often a necessary part of your job or internship search, there are a number of steps you can take early on to yield the most success. Check out the helpful job search steps below to get started.

1. Start by identifying what type of positions you want and what you are qualified for.
2. Develop a list of target employers to guide your job search. You will likely need to apply outside of this employer list, but having an initial guide is good.
3. Create strong application materials, including your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn profile, and elevator pitch.
4. Network to create connections in desired fields and with specific industries and companies. Applying online is only one portion of job searching. You have to actively network as well.
5. Apply! Your application should be tailored to a specific position and company. Be sure to customize your resume and cover letter with keywords from the job description as much as possible.
6. Prepare, prepare, prepare for interviews!
7. Follow-up with a company after your interview. If the company provided you with a timeline in which a decision would be made and that date has passed, it is appropriate to follow-up with a polite phone call or email.

Still have questions about job searching effectively? Call (313) 577-4781 or email ilitchcareers@wayne.edu to schedule an appointment with a Career Services advisor. We are here to support you every step of the way.