Job Search

Job searching requires patience, persistence and strategy. It usually takes six to nine months and encompasses several steps: career exploration, personal branding, research, networking, interview practice and self-reflection.

80% of jobs are attained through referrals from staff inside companies. It’s important to build a job search strategy that is broader than simply applying for jobs online. It’s important to get to know the industries and employers in your field, the types of jobs that interest you, the qualifications for various jobs and how you match up. It requires building your network of people in the field who you can learn from, identifying employers you would like to work for, conducting informational interviews and engaging with the employer to learn more about them and how to apply to the company.

Start with SPS Talent, where we list jobs for all degree areas. We always recommend that you get to know the job search sites in your field and set up alerts so you will automatically receive job announcements according to your interests. Professional associations in your field often have a job announcement section on their website. Other important sites that post jobs in all fields are LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor.

Through your networking and informational interviews, you will be informing insiders about your interests and keeping in touch with them. By building these relationships, you increase the chances that they will think of you and let you know when an appropriate job is open. This is one way to get ahead of the crowd and learn about jobs before they are posted for the public.

It’s best to spend time exploring your ideal path before you begin the job search, but you can do both simultaneously. The greater your clarity on which industry and role are right for you, the stronger your interviews and the more effective and efficient your job search will be.

Research industries and employers in your field.
Create job alerts on the key job sites for your field, as well as more general job sites.
Create a list of at least the top 10 companies you’d be thrilled to join.
Do in-depth research on the company and careers on their website and by reviewing the LinkedIn profiles of people working there.
Meet company representatives and connections at professional gatherings or at events at Columbia.
Contact 2-3 connections at each of these companies, directly or indirectly through introductions—try starting with alumni from Columbia or your previous schools.
Set up informational interviews and make thoughtful networking calls.
Let your contacts know about your skills and the types of jobs that interest you.
Follow up and reconnect with these connections every few weeks.

Job Search

Where should I look for jobs?

How does career exploration relate to the job search?

What should my job search strategy be?

Where do I find more resources?