Transition from School to Work with Ease
Finding a job is a full-time task and your daily activities should be structured, so that you don't burn yourself out and get discouraged during your search. Success begins with a well-rounded plan including relaxation and a social life for you. Your job search will include reviewing available jobs/descriptions, learning more about relevant industries & potential employers, evaluating your skills, preparing your resume/cover letters and making contacts. Start preparing for your future right now, right here!

JOB SEARCH ROADMAP

• Identify Skills and Accomplishments
• Write resume - pull together all elements into a one-page resume
• Draft a Generic Cover Letter
• Read/Review the following ASME Professional Practice Curriculum modules:
  - Introduction to an Engineering Career
  - Communication Skills

• Update your ASME member record - provide permanent address
• Announce to everyone that you are graduating and are looking for work
• Work with Alumni/Career offices to identify potential employers and schedule any on-campus interviews
• Signup for a Mentor

#3 Transition/Research

• Renew your ASME membership (ASME upgrades graduates to Member status automatically)
• Update your contact list (stay in touch with instructors, friends, classmates, co-op, mentors, Alumni office)
• Research Companies of Interest
• Look for and Review available Jobs in your area of interest

• Modify resumes & cover letters to fit job descriptions
• Send out resumes & cover letters for each unique situation - don't mass mail
• Check out leads - Online, Newspapers, through Networking with others(friends, family, groups)
• Arrange your day as if you were already working

• Be prepared - Know thyself (skills, achievements, experience) and knowthe company
• Dress appropriately
• Arrive early - check your appearance and observe the office environment
• Have a firm handshake and make eye contact
• Be attentive - Listen
• Ask Questions - show them that you are interested in the company
• If you are interested, ask what the next step will be in the interviewing process
• Post Interview - Send a Thank you letter to all interviewers

• Be Prepared - negotiating can include salary, benefits (health, vacation, retirement, etc.), bonus structure, and stock options
• Know what you want vs. what you need
• Have an active ear - Listen - hear what the company wants and try to offer a win for both of you
• Avoid discussing your salary requirement - Let them make an offer first
• Be prepared to walk away if offer isn't good for you

• Listen/Ask Questions
• Have a positive attitude
• Do not feel that you have to do it all the first day - meet everyone - greet with a smile - find out responsibilities
• Organize your office/workspace - order supplies
• Learn more about your responsibilities - those you will work with, etc.