Job Search Quick Links
Introduction
Use this page to support your job search. Key sections:
- General Resources (how to job search)
- Connecting with Employers (career fairs, campus interviews, etc.)
- Job Offers and Salary Negotiation
- Your First Year on the Job
General Resources
jobsearch
There is no magic date or time for when an individual should start their job search, but it may take recent graduates at least a few months and many hours to land a job. Most individuals have to apply to many positions and build their professional networks to land a great job. In addition, take note of the industry to which you are applying because particular industries may do more hiring during certain times of the year.
resource list
Get ideas and resources for your job search.
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Focus.
Determine the type of organization you want to work at and what type of role within the organization you want to explore. You will be much more successful if you are targeted in your search versus applying to every job you see.
Applying to jobs online is only one way to find a job.
Applicants should never rely ONLY on the Internet to find a position. It should be a part of your job searching strategy, not your only strategy. Visit the Connect with Employers section on this page for additional ways to find job opportunities.
80% of jobs are found through networking.
Use your network of friends, professors, family members, high school teachers and anyone else you know to discover organizations in your field and potential contacts within them. Read more about how to strengthen your networking skills by visiting the Networking page. You can also network and look for opportunities at upcoming career events where employers often have both internship and full-time opportunities.
Polish your resume and cover letter.
Both are important tools to communicate your strengths and how you will be an asset to a potential employer. Visit the Resumes, CVs, and Cover Letters page for tips and resources.
Get help finding jobs.
Make an appointment or stop in at Career Services drop-in hours with a Career Services advisor in our office to discuss your career goals, narrow your options, and/or help you polish your resume/cover letter. If your college has a career center, you can visit it to learn more about jobs related to your field of study and obtain other help.
jobinternational
MyVisaJobs.com assists international students in identifying employers who are offering sponsorship opportunities and applying directly for positions with those employers. Based on a user’s profile and settings, MyVisaJobs.com recommends positions. Note: This is an external resource and not affiliated with UIC.
For questions or concerns, please contact MyVisaJobs.com.
Connecting with Employers
careerfair
Attending career fairs is a great way to meet a variety of recruiters actively seeking candidates for open positions at their companies and organizations. Students have the opportunity to briefly introduce themselves and share how they might fit a position, as well as learn more about prospective employers. Read our tips (including a few short videos) to learn how to navigate Career Fairs.
campusinterv
Many employers choose to interview UIC students on campus for various positions. Employees usually set up on-campus interviews after career fairs.
empinfo
UIC students can attend an employer information session to learn about a particular employer in depth and the positions the employer is seeking to fill. Check this page for upcoming events. https://careerservices.uic.edu/students/career-programs-events/
empinfotable
Check here for upcoming Career Events. https://careerservices.uic.edu/students/career-programs-events/
Job Offers and Salary Negotiation
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You should carefully consider the offer and take your time to think through whether the job is a good fit for you. If you accept the offer then the employer will expect you to honor the acceptance and take the position.
Questions you may want to consider:
- Do I have the job offer in writing (including job description, salary and benefit information)? If not, contact the Hiring Manager or Human Resources Representative and ask for all information in writing.
- Are the employer’s values and culture similar to mine? Did I connect with the people I met during the interview process?
- Will I find the work appropriately challenging? Does the employer prioritize professional development opportunities for employees?
- How does this position fit into my career/professional goals?
- Even if the position isn’t the exact position I was hoping for, would I gain professional skills/experiences that will help me reach my professional goals?
- Does the compensation/benefits package (salary, benefits, vacation, health and retirement plans) meet my expectations?
- Does the geographic location of the job fit where I want to work?
- Is there required travel and if yes, how do I feel about it?
- How many hours will I be expected to work each week and does the position require work on evenings/weekends? If so, is compensation offered for evening/weekend work?
At any time if you would like to discuss a job offer, please make an appointment to meet with or speak to a Career Advisor.
salary
Before you decide if you should negotiate the salary offer, you should research the average salary for similar positions, degree, industry, geographic region, and size of the employer. Many factors play a role when salaries are determined. Helpful salary resources are listed below.
Some job offers are not negotiable, and given the competitive job market and your field, it may not be wise to ask about negotiating. However, if you feel that you need to negotiate, consult with a Career Services Advisor.
- How to Negotiate Your Salary, with Ramit Sethi
- 15 Rules for Negotiating a Job Offer
- YouTube video of Prof Malhotra’s presentation available here: https://youtu.be/km2Hd_xgo9Q
acceptoffer
When accepting an offer, it is crucial to accept an offer in writing—restating your interest and the job offer. Any offer – verbal or written – should only be given if you plan to honor the acceptance.
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Recommended Actions:
- Notify other employers to whom you have applied so that your applications can be withdrawn from consideration.
- Contact and thank all those who helped you in your job search, including individuals who served as references and others who shared advice with you.
declineoffer
Recommended Actions:
- Send a letter (or email) to inform the employer that you are declining the offer as soon as you decide you do not want the position.
- Treat the employer respectfully even if you decline a job offer, you may encounter that employer in the future.
- Express your gratitude for the job offer and thank the employer for the opportunity.
delayoffer
If you feel you need additional time to decide whether to accept an offer, you can consider asking the employer for additional time. Generally, employers will not withdraw an offer when applicants request additional time, but it is crucial to let the employer know how interested you are, and to be prepared to explain why you need additional time to make a decision. It is possible that some employers may not be willing to extend the deadline and you may need to make a decision.
Your First Year on the Job
There are several self-study online modules available to current UIC students on Blackboard. Each online module takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Note: Students will need to register for the Career Readiness 101 online course on Blackboard to access the course (non-credit).