Research before applying
Job searching: Be prepared
Too often job seekers think ‘background research’ means some internet surfing the night before an interview, but there is much more to it. Doing your homework is an essential part of effective job seeking.
Information gathering
Background research is about gathering the latest facts and figures related to your future career. Being equipped with valuable information will improve your application, interview performance and career choices.
Research:
- recent industry history and future direction
- major industry players and how they compare
- recruitment details of potential employers (e.g. how many graduates do they hire, how do they recruit etc.)
- graduate job market growth areas
- industry leaders and people you could contact for advice and mentoring
- industry or professional events and conferences
- career path options.
Sources
Part of the research process is finding the right information resources. Common sources include:
- www.graduatecareers.com.au
- www.gradsonline.com.au
- university careers service
- internet jobs sites and search engines
- newspapers (many have pages devoted to specific industries/sectors on particular days of the week)
- reputable journals/magazines in your industry or profession
- university departments, faculties and alumni offices
- professional associations and industry bodies
- your personal network
- informational interviews
