Specialized Job Searches

Long Distance Job Search

Are you itching to expand your horizons beyond the borders of Minnesota upon graduation? While a long distance job search can be an exciting process, it can also be more challenging than an in-state or local search. Identifying employers and positions in another region will require a bit more resourcefulness on your part. Long distance job searches can be difficult because employers often have a talented candidate pool in their local area. Thus, convincing an employer to give your resume its due attention and fly you in for an interview are some hurdles you may encounter. However, with some creativity, persistence and flexibility on your part, it can be done. Below are some tips to keep in mind as you embark on this adventure:

• Utilize your network. Who do you know in your targeted geographical area? Do you have friends or relatives you can contact to gather information about the area, job search resources, and potential leads.
• Identify potential employers through regional directories, job bank books, newspapers, phone books, and Chambers of Commerce.
• If you are interested in a particular organization, see if they have a location in Minnesota where you could inquire about regional opportunities and hiring processes.
• Utilize the CANE files in either Career Resource Center. The CANE files are a database of alumni who have volunteered to be available to talk to students regarding their career concerns. The CANE files are organized by zip code, as well as by occupation, major, and alphabetical order. Therefore, you may be able to contact alums who live in your targeted geographical area.
• Utilize regional Internet job postings. There is a wide variety of Internet career sites that post job openings and host resume databases. Many of these sites can be searched by geographical preference, but other sites have a regional bent to them. Search for sites that cater to your geographical target such as state sponsored sites. Also visit career services web sites from colleges and universities in the area. Many times these offices will post job listings from area employers on their web site. Finally, see if an area newspaper posts the Want Ads online.
• Think about visiting your targeted city during holiday break, j-break, or spring break. Before you go, contact potential employers to arrange job interviews. Employers will be more likely to interview you if the cost of travel isn’t involved. Also consider setting up some informational interviews to explore potential positions, companies, or industries.
• Make an appointment with Career Services staff to discuss your plans and to devise a strategy that works for you.

International Job Search

With the popularity of the study abroad programs here at CSB and SJU it is not uncommon for students to consider working or volunteering abroad after graduation. The International Job Search presents a whole new set of rules and challenges compared to a domestic or local job search. To help you navigate this process, check out the related links on this page. You may also find some helpful books at the Career Resource Centers and the Office of International Education.