Job Search and Agencies
Job Search and Agencies
It is never too early to start the job search process. As a current student, you can do this by reading articles about the LIS field, reviewing job ads to make note of the required qualifications, staying on top of market trends, developing your network and making ongoing efforts to stay connected with that network. It is important to start this process early in your academic career.
Once you begin your job search, you want to treat it like the most important homework assignment of your academic career. Put all of the research and information-gathering skills you have acquired in your LIS program to work developing a solid job search strategy that focuses on YOU.
Target Your Job Search
In order to conduct a successful and targeted job search, you need to have a clear focus. This includes knowing yourself — your unique skills, interests, and abilities.
Build Your Strategy
Part of conducting a successful job search is having a well thought-out strategy. This includes:
1. Know Yourself
You are your greatest asset. Plan to market yourself so that
employers will see how you will benefit their organization. What
is it that makes you the best candidate for
the job? Be prepared to tell an employer how you are
different from other candidates. For example:
Job Listing Sites and Resources
If you are new to the information profession, or it has been a long time since you conducted a job search, you may want to check out this digital booklet, Landing a Job with an LIS/MLIS Degree - Advice for Job Seekers, packed with job search tips from LAC Group, a library staffing agency.
For general information about librarian wages, trends, and related job titles, see Summary Report for United States.
Placement Agencies
Conducting a successful job search requires being flexible, open minded, and strategic in your approach. That means having a Plan A, Plan B and even a Plan C. Using many different strategies is key to your success, and the use of placement agencies, temporary employment, or contract positions is one more viable alternative to add to your list of options.
SJSU Handshake
SJSU Handshake is a password–protected online jobs database managed by the SJSU Career Center and is free for employers, current iSchool students and Career Center Alumni members (recent alumni retain access for one year after graduation).
Get started personalizing your Handshake profile and begin searching for full-time and part-time jobs.
Career Fair Success Tips
A career or job fair is an event allowing employers to meet and talk with prospective job seekers who are there to make a good first impression and to find out about job opportunities.