Today’s job market continues to be challenging for candidates to enter. Employers are watching the economy carefully and making recruiting and hiring decisions accordingly. More than ever, job seekers will need to seek out and uncover hidden opportunities using multiple search strategies. For you, these may include:

• Searching targeted (toward your career objective) job, internship, & co-op boards. This includes CareerLink as employers seeking Meredith students and alumnae in particular use this method to post positions and interview.
• Gaining experience. Internships are the #1 way employers are finding new hires. The opportunity for the employer and for you to preview the fit of your background, skills, and personality makes this a current preferred method of seeking talent.
• Understanding networking – what it is, how it can help – and using it effectively. A comprehensive, active, consistent, and tailored approach is a necessity.
• Using social media effectively and appropriately. Make sure your privacy settings are set! Use all forms of social media to share your message, especially LinkedIn to connect with others.
• Informational interviews – what better way to learn about a career, an industry, and employer while making a connection and gaining job search advice and leads.
• Researching employers and possibilities through occupational research, directories, and talking with employees – especially alumnae.
• Participating in opportunities that put you face-to-face with an employer: networking events, career fairs, panels, employer information sessions, on campus recruiting, and other employer led workshops/events.
• Getting involved in a professional association related to your career goal. In addition to the industry specific information shared through professional organizations, many groups have student membership and as a
  benefit many offer “member only” access to jobs, the organizational listserve, membership directory,
  and attendance at meetings and other
  networking opportunities.