Wichita State University Career Guide - Flipbook - Page 46
Job Search Prep
Navigating a job search is a journey of opportunity and self-discovery. Taking time to prepare for the search is key. Preparation is
a process of assessing skills, and refining professional documents, to set the stage for a successful journey towards finding the
right fit. Below you will find more information on beginning your job search.
JOB SEARCH KNOWLEDGE: The current job market is very competitive. Our
goal is to help you put yourself in the best position for you to be considered
for a role. The average job search in the United States takes 3-6 months and
many applicants apply to multiple positions before moving to an interview or
into a hiring process. It is important to stay engaged and positive with your job
search and understand you are not the right fit for every role. Working through
the job search section of the Career Ready Guide, creating tailored resumes
and cover letters and completing a Job Search Prep appointment with an SCA
career coach sets you up for success.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: Navigating
the job market as an international student
presents significant hurdles. It is important to
stay up to date with evolving industry norms
and regional requirements as
you pursue employment opportunities.
Explore additional resources to aid you
in your job search by visiting
wichita.edu/InternationalJobSearch and
wichita.edu/GoinGlobal
What Are You Searching For?
Before you begin searching for a job, you need to have an idea of what you are searching for. Use the space below to fill in your
preferences. The more you write in this section, the more information you have to search with. This should include preferences
on industries, job titles, location, work type (remote/hybrid/in-person), and any key skills you have built that you would like to
utilize in your new position. For help completing this section of your job search prep, utilize
wichita.edu/WCIDWTM and wichita.PathwayU.com
Note: each of these sections are also common filters you will find on job search websites.
INDUSTRIES
(Tech, or Advertising)
JOB TITLES
(Marketing Specialist)
LOCATIONS
(Austin, TX)
WORK TYPE
(In-person/Hybrid)
KEY SKILLS
(Adobe Photoshop)
Research Companies
Thoroughly researching companies during a job search is crucial for several reasons. It helps you align your values and goals with
the organization, tailor your application materials, demonstrate genuine interest during interviews, and make informed career
decisions. The most optimal avenues for conducting this research include accessing the official company website and utilizing
SCA resources such as wichita.edu/BuzzFile and Glassdoor.com
Target Companies
It is important to search for companies that align with both your values and expectations for your career. Keep an open mind in
your research, your perfect fit may be with a company you weren't aware of previously. Use the space below to research three
companies, including one of which you were not familiar with prior to your search.
COMPANY
POSITION
WHY THIS COMPANY?
1.
2.
3.
Showcase Your Strengths
Consider how you can connect your strengths to the specific job duties/expectations for the positions
you are applying for.
• For example, if the role is a recruiter and it requires you to engage and recruit clients then the
strength of Woo (Winning Others Over) allows you to leverage that ability to network and identify
how to meet clients where they are to feel excited and energized about your company.
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