Credential in hand — now what?

  • 26 June 2023

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Whether you're launching your career, gunning for a promotion or changing industries, SAIT's Career Advancement Services is here to support our graduates through their professional journey. 

Improve your job search and your professional profile with these top tips:

 

1. Make use of SAIT career resources

Sign up for My Career Hub, a resource provided by SAIT's Career Advancement Services:

  • Access to the online job board with 6,000 registered employers.
  • Consultations with career advisors, resumé advice, LinkedIn profile reviews, practice interviews and other resources.
  • Access to the events calendar for career conversations, industry mentorship circles, employer sessions and other networking events.

 

 

2. Widen your job search

Try expanding your criteria to increase your chances of finding an opportunity that will jumpstart your career.

  • Be open to entry-level positions as a way in. 
  • Consider jobs other than full-time. Short-term contract positions can get you inside a company. Prove yourself as a temp and you never know what might happen.
  • Don't restrict your search to a specific industry. Widen your job scope.

 

 

3. Maintain a clean social media footprint

Social media is a powerful networking tool as long as you keep it professional. Employers will check your social media footprint. That's the trail you leave on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, etc. If you're unsure if you should post something, chances are you should not.

Social media platforms can be useful to help you grow your professional network. For example:

  • LinkedIn is the most popular tool with recruiters. Create a profile (if you don't have one already) and use it to start building your professional network, including your instructors and classmates.
  • Facebook can be an effective platform for following companies and influencers within your industry.
  • Twitter can showcase your writing skills and demonstrate creativity.

 

4. Network, network, network

Up to 80% of jobs are never posted on bulletin boards. Career opportunities can be about who you know as well as what you know.

  • Start growing your network by taking advantage of existing relationships you've built with instructors, mentors and classmates.
  • Make industry contacts by seeking out online and in-person info sessions, career fairs and webinars.
  • Keep your contact information up-to-date to receive invites to career development and alumni networking events.

 

5. Get involved. Stay involved.

Work at developing skills and experience that employers are looking for, even if you don't have a full-time job.

  • Volunteering develops important transferable skills such as communication, organization and teamwork. Employers value volunteer experience.
  • Look for opportunities within SAIT and other community organizations. Dedicating time to an institution or community group provides you with networking opportunities.
  • Put your hand up to be a mentor to a SAIT student or be paired with your own mentor.
  • Don't forget to add this experience to your resumé. It fills gaps in your resumé and shows you're working while you're on the hunt for a job.