Target Your Search

Don’t try to look everywhere at once. Instead, focus on:

• A few roles or industries that truly interest you

• Geographic areas where you’d like to live/work

You can always expand later, but narrowing your search makes it easier to find opportunities that fit.

Before You Start Searching

Set yourself up for success:

• Create your “60-second commercial” and practice telling your liberal arts story

• Build a strong résumé (and be ready to tailor it for each job)

• Line up 3 references (with their permission)

• Practice interviewing and have professional attire ready

• Polish your online presence (LinkedIn, PirateConnect, email, voicemail)

• Attend career events to build skills and connections

Where to Search

Handshake – Southwestern’s career development platform for students and alumni (part-time, full-time, internships, on-campus jobs).

Third-party sites – Use LinkedIn Jobs, Indeed, and professional association boards (often the best for niche roles).

Employer websites – Some jobs are only on organization’s own website - or not posted at all. Use searches like “Austin marketing firms” to identify organizations that might have jobs that interest you. Navigate the organization website looking for “Careers” or “Employment”, sometimes in the “About Us” section or in the fine print at the bottom of the page. Reach out directly to organizations that interest you.

Leverage Your Network

Networking is the #1 way Pirates land jobs. Many positions are never advertised, and referrals often carry more weight than applications alone. Connect through:

• PirateConnect

• LinkedIn

• SU Alumni Directory

• Professional organizations

• SU events like Curious Conversations and Career Connections BBQ

Career Fairs

Face-to-face meetings can give you an edge. To prepare:

• Review the list of attending employers

• Research organizations you’re interested in

• Bring tailored résumés in a professional portfolio

• Dress professionally and be ready to introduce yourself

Follow Up

Stand out by following through:

• Reach out to employers within 2 weeks of applying

• Send thank-you notes or emails within 24 hours of interviews or networking conversations

• Be prepared: any call you get might be a screening interview

Pro Tip: Spend most of your search time talking to people—not just applying online. Connections often open doors that applications alone cannot.

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Ready to take the next step? A CCPD Success Coach can help you refine your search strategy, strengthen your application materials, and build your confidence.

Schedule an Appointment