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I Need a Job Plan (7 days)

Getting a job takes strategy and consistent action. This 7-day plan breaks down the job search into manageable daily tasks. Follow it day-by-day for maximum results.

⏱ī¸Time: 7 days (1-2 hours per day)
WorkCareerPlanning

✓What to Do Now

1

Day 1: Assess and prepare

List your skills, experiences, and goals. Update/create your resume. Set up job search accounts (LinkedIn, Indeed, Handshake).

2

Day 2: Research and target

Identify 10-15 target companies/positions. Research each company. Create a spreadsheet to track applications.

3

Day 3: Polish your application materials

Tailor your resume for each job type. Write a strong cover letter template. Prepare portfolio/work samples if needed.

4

Day 4: Network actively

Reach out to 5-10 people in your field (alumni, LinkedIn connections, professors). Attend a networking event or set up informational interviews.

5

Day 5: Submit applications

Apply to 5-7 positions using tailored materials. Follow application instructions carefully. Customize each application.

6

Day 6: Follow up and expand

Follow up on previous applications. Apply to 3-5 more positions. Reach out to connections who haven't responded.

7

Day 7: Prepare for interviews

Practice common interview questions. Research companies you've applied to. Prepare questions to ask interviewers. Continue applying.

📞Who to Contact

Career Services Office

📱 Phone: Your campus career center
When: For resume reviews, mock interviews, job postings, and career counseling

Student Employment Office

📱 Phone: Your campus student employment contact
When: For on-campus jobs and work-study positions

Alumni Network

📋 Contact: LinkedIn or alumni office
When: For networking, informational interviews, and job referrals

Professors and Department Advisors

📋 Contact: Office hours or email
When: For industry connections, references, and internship leads

🚩Red Flags

  • ⚠ī¸Applying to jobs without tailoring your resume
  • ⚠ī¸Not following up on applications
  • ⚠ī¸Using the same generic cover letter everywhere
  • ⚠ī¸Only applying online without networking
  • ⚠ī¸Giving up after rejections instead of improving
  • ⚠ī¸Not preparing for interviews
  • ⚠ī¸Accepting first offer without negotiating
  • ⚠ī¸Ignoring professional social media presence
  • ⚠ī¸Not asking for references early enough

📝Templates

Click "Copy" to copy any template to your clipboard, then paste and customize it.

LinkedIn Connection Request (Alumni)

Hi [NAME], I'm a [YEAR] student at [UNIVERSITY] studying [MAJOR]. I saw you work at [COMPANY] and I'm interested in [INDUSTRY/FIELD]. I'd love to connect and learn about your career path. Thanks! [YOUR NAME]

Informational Interview Request Email

Subject: Informational Interview Request - [UNIVERSITY] Student Hi [NAME], My name is [YOUR NAME] and I'm a [YEAR] [MAJOR] student at [UNIVERSITY]. I'm exploring careers in [FIELD] and was impressed by your background at [COMPANY/CURRENT ROLE]. Would you be available for a brief 15-20 minute informational interview? I'd love to learn about your career path and get advice on breaking into [INDUSTRY/FIELD]. I'm happy to meet virtually or in person, whichever is more convenient. I'm available [GIVE 2-3 TIME OPTIONS]. Please let me know what works for you. Thank you for your time! Best regards, [YOUR NAME] [EMAIL] [PHONE]

Application Follow-Up Email

Subject: Following Up on Application - [POSITION NAME] Dear [HIRING MANAGER NAME/RECRUITER], I submitted my application for the [POSITION NAME] position on [DATE] and wanted to follow up to express my continued interest. I believe my experience in [RELEVANT SKILL/EXPERIENCE] and passion for [RELEVANT INTEREST] make me a strong fit for this role. I'm particularly excited about [SPECIFIC THING ABOUT COMPANY/POSITION]. I've attached my resume again for your convenience. I'm happy to provide any additional information or schedule a conversation at your convenience. Thank you for your consideration. Best regards, [YOUR NAME] [PHONE] [EMAIL] [LINKEDIN (OPTIONAL)]

Thank You Email After Interview

Subject: Thank You - [POSITION NAME] Interview Dear [INTERVIEWER NAME], Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today about the [POSITION NAME] role. I enjoyed learning more about [SPECIFIC TOPIC DISCUSSED] and [COMPANY NAME]'s work in [AREA]. Our conversation reinforced my interest in this position. I'm particularly excited about [SPECIFIC THING MENTIONED], and I believe my experience with [RELEVANT SKILL/EXPERIENCE] would allow me to contribute effectively to your team. I'm happy to provide any additional information you might need. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. Thank you again for your time and consideration. Best regards, [YOUR NAME] [PHONE] [EMAIL]

Job Application Tracker Template

Date | Company | Position | Status | Applied | Follow-Up | Interview | Notes ------|---------|----------|--------|---------|-----------|-----------|------ [DATE] | [COMPANY] | [TITLE] | [STATUS] | [DATE] | [DATE] | [DATE] | [NOTES] Status options: Applied, Under Review, Interview Scheduled, Rejected, Offer Include columns for: - Contact person - Salary range - Application method - Required materials submitted

🎓Watch / Learn

đŸŽĨ

How to Write a Standout Resume

Resume writing tips and examples

đŸŽĨ

Networking for Introverts

Practical networking strategies

đŸŽĨ

Interview Preparation Guide

Common questions and how to answer them