Things to Consider
Each industry and organization uses different strategies for filling job vacancies. Therefore, your job search will likely be different from your roommate’s job search. On-campus interviews typically begin in late September, with some companies recruiting on campus in the spring as well. However, most employers don’t fill positions until much closer to the anticipated start date, we call this “just in time” hiring. A successful job search requires proper preparation, persistence and patience.
Considerations for Blogs and Social Networks like MySpace and Facebook
Duke University takes free expression seriously and goes to great lengths to protect that right. Social networks such as Facebook and MySpace have expanded opportunities to express yourself, connect with friends and to build your network. Still, there are several responsibilities to consider when you create your persona and post messages online.
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What you post is public information. You have a much larger audience than you might be aware.
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What you post is going to be around for a while. Because caching and other forms of technology can capture your postings, information is accessible even after you’ve removed it.
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What you post can harm others. You are free to express yourself on social networks in ways that you feel are appropriate for you. However, it is important that you respect the privacy and rights of others. Posting things about others can place both you and your subject in a contentious situation.
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What you post may affect your future. There is a growing trend for employers to check Google and social networks to gather information about potential candidates. The online persona you create today may be available when you begin your internship or full-time job search or when you apply to professional or graduate school—even if you think you’ve deleted it. Carefully consider how you want people to perceive you before you give them the chance to misinterpret your profile and pictures.
To read more about social networks, your rights and responsibilities, go to:
10 Privacy Settings Every Facebook User Should Know by Nick O'Neill, AllFacebook.com
Startups Help Clean Up Online Reputations by
Online persona can ruin your shot at that job -By Alan Finder, The New York Times
MySpace Is Public Space When It Comes To Job Search -collegegrad.com
The Issues Surrounding College Recruiting and Social Networking Web Sites -National Association of Colleges and Employers
More things to consider:
- Network. Networking is the most effective job search method. Be sure to take advantage of the networking opportunities, such as The Fannie Mitchell Career Conference and Alumni-in-Residence, that the Career Center plans for you.
- Forge your path. Depending on your target, the type of employers you are interested in pursing may not recruit on campus or actively seek entry-level candidates. In this case, it is important to take advantage of the Duke career community to meet your goals. Partner with your career counselor to develop an effective job search strategy.
- Don't stop. That’s right! Duke offers career-related advice to alumni. Within the first two years after graduating you can contact the Career Center (919-660-1050). If it has been more than two years, you can contact the Duke Alumni Association for assistance (919-684-5114).
Career Center Services 2008 Statistics (67% of the Class of 2008 responded)
- 89% of students receiving jobs utilized Career Center services or programs at one point throughout their job search
- 59% of Students received their job directly through a Career Center resource (OCR, eRecruiting, Career Fair, Career Center Reference) versus 49% from 2007
- 14% of students responding to the survey found their jobs through personal contacts
- The class of 2008 pursued a wide variety of career fields. The most common fields include finance (32%), consulting (16%), education (13%), engineering/technology (11%), health care (8%), and retail/hospitality management (5%).