Congratulations on finishing the semester! Hopefully May has given you a chance to rest, reconnect with friends, and celebrate your accomplishment.

Now, you're likely thinking about starting (or continuing) your job search. This process may elicit some emotions—excitement, hopefulness, overwhelm or intimidation. No matter how you are feeling about this process,as the designer of your life, one of the best things you can do is hop into action. Rather than 'clicking to apply' on job boards, consider these tips to make the most out of your time.

3 tips to structure your job search:

#1 Know your goal:Before you start searching, it's important to establish your parameters. Decide what makes a job or internship a good fit for you, including the nature of the work, salary, benefits, type of employer, and organizational culture.

#2 Prepare your materials:Throughout your search, you'll be tailoring your documents and profiles. Having your materials in a good place now will allow you to move quickly on exciting opportunities when they arise. Consider your resume, Handshake profile, LinkedIn profile, portfolio, references and cover letters.

#3 Structure your weekly tasks:Finding a job can be a full-time job in itself. Set aside time each week for your job search, with10 hoursbeing the minimum. Write out what you will do on a weekly basis, and be as specific as possible. Divide your time amongst these tasks:

• 50% of time: Networking and conducting career chats with people in organizations of interest.
• 20% of time: Researching organizations, people, and positions that would be a good fit for you.
• 20% of time: Customizing your application materials, applying, and interviewing.
• 10% of time: Visiting job boards likeHandshakethat will have positions tailored to your interest and experience.

Celebrate Small Wins 🎖️

The job search is more of a marathon than a sprint. It may take months to accept an offer. Celebrate small wins like updating your resume, securing a networking meeting, or landing an interview. These little steps are getting you closer to your goal!

Take Action 🏃

The hardest part is getting started. Find a notebook or open up a new document and write out a job search goal. Make it as specific and time bound as possible. Then, make a list of tasks you plan to do in the upcoming week to get closer to the goal.

Explore This Resource 🔎

For more Walter Center wisdom, view the "How to Find Jobs" page on our website. Already have your next opportunity secured? Congrats!Report your outcometo be taken off of this send list.

Make a Career Coaching Appointment 👨💻

Please know that we are your biggest allies when it comes to preparing for and eventually obtaining the career of your dreams. Don't hesitate tomake a career coaching appointmentfor one-on-one help with your application materials and interview preparation. Graduates can use our services for up to three years post-grad!

❤️, The Walter Center for Career Achievement