Targeted Job Search | Origin: CS102
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Empowering Students to Find and Secure the Right Job --> Targeted Job Search
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I've learned more about the importance of networking and student outreach in the job search. I was surprised that 50% of available jobs are not advertised. I feel many students have a good handle on reading job postings and creating a supported application, but struggle with making the first contact to inquire about positions. Leaning on students' networks and focusing on professional communication can be helpful tips to share with students.
Honestly i find some of these suggestions shocking. the idea that cold calling a company, or walking in without an appointment is acceptable practice in 2026 is frankly bad advice. yes, networking, investigating, etc are good ideas, but if someone came to my office to talk about a job, even one that was publicly posted, without a scheduled meeting, we would be even less likely to hire them, for demonstrating unprofessional behavior
Learning is always the path to growth, not only as a career advisor, but to help those who seek careers. This will enable them in appropriate roles that will support and give them satisfaction having a purpose for what they do.
I encourage student to seek jobs they are passionate about. Its important that students focus on finding the right job for them. You should work in a field that you like so it does not feel like a job. You should not just focus on pay but on the actual job description. Students should do their research and focus on their needs and wants.
Couple main points stuck out. 50% of the available jobs are not advertised, which is useful information to share with students who feel like there is no hope or nothing to find online. Reflecting on jobs kids want, what those jobs require, and what skills they currently have can be very helpful when exploring career pathways.
I found the links helpful. I think that the advice on what to include when emailing your resume is very important. When scoping out the job market it is important to know the businesses in your area and know what benefits and career opportunities for career advancement are most important for the candidate.
Teaching our students how to effectively job search and network for job opportunities is one of the main focuses of getting hired. Having this understanding will allow our students to perform better and have that advantage in their interview, knowing and applying their own skills and knowledge.
I am impressed with the information I received after this section. We provide a variety of resources for job search, which increases the number of offers and enables students to choose the job they dream of.
I have learned how to offer students ways to really dig deep in learning about themselves. Also, leading them to great resources for job search, networking, and potential job leads. How to get them ready for that first interview.
It's a great idea to have students ask questions to themselves. This will help them discover new thoughts and ideas to really understand what they are truly looking for their future. I will actively search for ways to help them like community resources, talking to people about their goals, social resources, and other helpful tips that were provided for this training.
Most people are only in a job spot for the money, but they do not enjoy what they do. Students looking for a job should shadow an employee and see how well the job fits them first before accepting and google the employer beforehand to read the mission statement or bio about the company to see if their core values/beliefs align to you, because you should love what you do and not just be in it for the money.
I like how students are provided with different resources to find the correct job. I think it is really important that students focus on finding the right job for them. Not every job is for everyone. Treasure Finding was a great way of explaining it. You should work in a field that you like so it does not feel like a job. You should not just focus on pay but on the actual job description. Students should do their research and focus on their needs and wants. At the end of the day, the correct job is one where you feel happy to go to.
Loved the term Treasure Hunting, great to reinforce the idea of the best job doesn't feel like a job and learning new tools to help the student identify what job they want and the needs that they might have. Good refresher on how to contact employers and do research on the company you're applying too. Very useful strategies for networking
The description and breakdown of the job search process and protocol was quite interesting and gave me a few new ideas for my students!
Having a more in-depth conversation with students to see what they are looking for, what is a must have in a job and what they are willing to compromise on. Also making sure they research a company before applying to be more informed.
CS advisors should guide students toward careers that match their interests and strengths, not just financial gain. Key strategies include job shadowing, researching employers, and maintaining professionalism while networking. Students must also manage their digital presence, as employers assess their online footprint.
Not every job is enjoyable, it depends on the person and their interests. Many people only see jobs as a means for money. But as educators, we need to help students realize that not every job has to be unenjoyable. They can find something they like in an area they are good in or want to be good in. If we can help them find passion and excitement for their future careers, it will help with student satisfaction and possibly retention.
The best 2 pieces of advice I will relay to my students from this module are "Google yourself!" and job shadowing. It is important for students to see the day-to-day activities of their future career.
There were some fantastic tips in this module that one could consider in their job search. One that stuck out to me was remaining professional even when asking people whom you have a personal relationship with about any available jobs.
