Services for Job Seekers

Searching for Vacancies

Look in the right Places

Only about one third of jobs are actually advertised, since it is expensive and time consuming for the employer. Don't neglect the following:

Direct interaction with companies and organizations. Ask HR departments about vacancies, or contact units you would like to work at.
Friends and relatives. Someone might hear about a job you could apply for if they know you're looking.
Contacts obtained at previous summer jobs or internships.
Company websites.

More conventional channels include newspapers, recruiting services at schools, job hunting websites (see our links) and job fairs.

Examine the Companies

Are you familiar with the field, and does it interest you? See the company website, annual report and relevant third party publications.
Does the employer's image and corporate culture fit you?
Would you genuinely like doing the job, and what opportunities would you have for career advancement?
Why would you be able to fill the position particularly well? If you're still motivated after the above, apply even if you don't meet the requirements exactly.

Have Clear Goals

What do you want from a job? What have you been particularly interested in at earlier jobs?
How convincing are your education, work experience, personal skills etc. in relation to what you are seeking? Your first job will not necessarily match your ambitions, as you will need to gain visible proof of your suitability before being considered for more demanding jobs.
How do your plans for the near term differ from your long term ambitions?

Know Your Strengths

You need to know which sides of yourself to emphasize to potential employers. Recognizing your own skills correctly helps you find the job ads that suit you best, and increases the probability of getting hired. It is important to remember to consider all aspects of your life and experiences, but if you are unsure of yourself, personal career guidance assistance should be available at your university.

Performing a SWOT-like analysis on yourself can also be valuable. Here are some examples:

Recall three events/tasks you handled particularly well. Think about why you were successful.
Consider ways to get rid of your weaknesses.
How do you want to grow as a person?
What do you want to do? What do you like?
How dedicated are you to your work and the prestige it provides? (vs. for example time for your family) Some jobs require more flexibility and commitment.
How do you like to work? In groups? Alone?
What are your values? Corporate cultures vary widely.