Targeted Research tools


The best technique in a career search is to target employers, not jobs. When you are proactive,your employment options multiply and you expand your available career paths. Here are some helpful tools to help you target your research.

Word of Mouth

      Tell everyone you know what you are looking for.
      Look for opportunities to talk about your qualifications.
      Create, develop, and exchange your resume.
      Listen and be aware– you never know when an opportunity may arise.

Informational Interviewing

Is talking to people who have a job you’re interested in or work for an organization that you’d like to learn more about. It is a great way to investigate careers and learn about the industry, a company or a specific job.
  • Ask people in the industry questions about what they do.
  • Find out how they got where they are in the industry. What kind of education and training do they have?
  • Ask questions about the day-to-day functions of the job so you know what you can anticipate.
  • Ask about the pros and cons of working for the organization.
  • Express interest in conducting informational interviews with as many people as possible to expand your network.
  • Always remember to send a timely Thank You note.

Industry Research

  • Consider whether an industry or an organization aligns with your values, skills and preferred work environment.
  • Check out the website of a particular organization to learn more about their mission, goals, and values.
  • Find out which professional organizations are associated with your career interests and visit their websites.
  • Search for information about different career paths at the US Department of Labor website and the Occupational Information Network website.

Experiential Learning

Includes any opportunities to gain work-related experience employers seek, such as: internships, volunteer work, co-ops, summer or part-time jobs.
  • Search available opportunities at Jobs for Jacks
  • Talk to your professors and your department advisor about opportunities and types of experiences preferred by employers in your field.
  • Attend a Career Fair and speak with recruiters about what they are looking for in a candidate.