Career Development

Over the past few years you have spent a significant amount of time at University studying for your career; soon you will want to put theory into practice and find employment in your field.

The keys to success in making the transition from the world of formal education to the world of work, whether it be inside or outside of academia, are

1. knowing what you want and what you have to offer, and
2. knowing how to promote yourself effectively, verbally and in writing.

Strategies exist that can help you connect with employers: you can develop a persuasive and tailored resume, search for job openings, use CAPS: Your U of A Career Centre, and network with potential employers.

Throughout your work search you will likely have questions such as “What do employers consider most important on a resume?,” “How can I make my application letter stand out from the rest,” “How do I network and with whom?,” “What can I do to prepare for an interview?,” and “How do I stay cool, calm, and collected once I am at an interview?”

The information below was compiled in partnership with CAPS: Your U of A Career Centre, and topics were chosen based on discussions with career advisors, employers and graduate students, and material common to various websites.

These tips are intended to act as a guide on the work search journey and help you achieve a successful outcome - finding employment leading to a rewarding career. Even if you have not formally started your work search yet, you will want to start putting material together now. Some simple activities are included to help you apply the material.

U of A Resources

Check for workshops/sessions offered by following units:

• CAPS: Your U of A Career Centre
• Centre for Teaching and Learning