Not sure where to start in your job or internship search?  

Todd Euglow, assistant director of operations at the Missouri State University Career Center, is here to help with the process. He shares his tips on where to start and how to stand out from the crowd. 

Use your resources and start early 

One of the most common mistakes students make is starting the preparation and job search process too late, Euglow explains.  

When is the right time to start? Euglow suggests you get started the semester before you plan to seek a position or internship.  

He recommends students begin the following before submitting applications: 

• Maximize your current network: “Make sure the people in your network know you’re looking for a position,” Euglow said. “Put yourself out there and look for more opportunities to expand your network.” 
• Mock interviews: Polish your interview skills and get comfortable with interviewing. 
• Do a self-assessment: “Reflect on anything you’ve done inside and outside the classroom and think about how those experiences will help you as you take on a new role,” Euglow said. “But also think about what you want out of your first job, where you want to live, your industries of interest and companies that may be appealing to you.” 
• Get organized: “Dedicate some time each week to your job search,” Euglow said. “Create structure and a document you can refer back to like an Excel tracking sheet as that can help you stay on top of the job search. Consider actually scheduling in job search time on your calendar to help hold yourself accountable.” 
• Visit the Career Center: “We offer mock interviews, resume and LinkedIn feedback, and connections with employers,” Euglow said. “We have an office in Glass Hall for COB students. They can swing by or make an appointment online. We can also assist you with developing a job search strategy.” 

Visit the Career Center today

Stand out 

We often hear that it can be difficult to get past the initial application screening process. 

But there are small things you can do that will make a big impact on the application process: 

• Tailor your resume: “The job description is your cheat sheet to tailoring your resume,” Euglow said. “Read the description carefully to ensure you are emphasizing the skills you have that line up with what they are looking for.” 
• Write a cover letter: “If a cover letter isn’t a required part of the application package, you can safely skip it,” Euglow said. “But if this is a job you really want, you should go ahead and write one. It shows initiative and can be an opportunity to help you demonstrate your communication skills.” 
• Start developing your skillsets: Euglow shares that online professional development courses can help you fill any gaps in the skillsets you will need when you begin working. Missouri State offers free access to LinkedIn Learning through your student account. You can find a link under your student tab in the My Career Path channel in your MyMissouriState account.  
• Follow up with a thank you email or letter: “One of the most common pieces of feedback I hear from employers is that applicants don’t follow up anymore after an interview,” Euglow said. “Taking extra time after your interview to write a nice thank you email to your interviewer will help you stand out from other applicants.”