Prepare for your job search by developing stand-out application materials, expanding your network, and implementing effective job search strategies.
Your resume is often the first impression you make on an employer and the Career Center is here to help you develop a document that best markets you and your skills. Submit your resume and/or cover letter for review by sending it (MS Word document preferred) to careerservices@dctc.edu.
If you don't feel your document is ready for review, here are a few resources to help you get started:
Need additional help? DCTC's Tutoring Center supports students with writing-related questions.
Watch this 11-minute video to learn the dos and don’ts of resume writing.
Did you know a majority of jobs are found through networking? It's estimated that over 85% of jobs are filled through networking.
Many people feel nervous about networking, but we do it every day. If you need a new dentist or mechanic, you usually ask your friends or family for recommendations — that's networking! Career networking is similar — it's simply reaching out to people to learn about career opportunities, a company or industry, or to share information and build relationships.
The Importance of Career Networking – article
In addition to your existing personal network (friends, family, neighbors) and professional network (colleagues, faculty, classmates), you can expand your network in a number of ways.
LinkedIn is the largest professional networking site with over 900 million members globally.
Informational interviewing may sound scary, but it's just having a conversation with someone about their job or career. It is not the same as a job interview.
Professional Associations are a great way to connect with other professionals in your field, and they often offer discounted membership to students. Many national organizations have local chapters.
LinkedIn is the largest professional networking site, with over 900 million members globally. Networking is essential in your career development, but you can use LinkedIn for much more than networking. It's an excellent tool for researching careers, building your brand, finding jobs, and learning about your industry. Recruiters also use LinkedIn to find candidates, so it can be a way to promote yourself outside of an active job search.
Similar to your resume or cover letter, the Career Center professionals at DCTC are happy to review your LinkedIn profile. If you'd like a review, email careerservices@dctc.edu and include your Star ID or Tech ID and your LinkedIn URL.
Like your resume, you want your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and draw the interest of employers.
To optimize LinkedIn, you need to do more than create your profile. LinkedIn is much more beneficial when you engage with others by posting content, joining groups, and following companies or people.
DCTC has a Professional Clothing Closet on campus! We offer gently used clothing for a professional setting that students and alumni can borrow or keep at no cost to you!
Items include:
Set up an appointment to 'shop' the closet by emailing: Kasey.Meyer@dctc.edu
Find out more about the Professional Clothes Closet on the DCTC News Blog.
In addition to the resources provided within our website find additional career support:
