Full-Time Job Search Process 

Before you search, you need to understand what you bring to the table. This isn’t busywork—it’s the foundation that makes everything else easier. When you own your qualifications, you craft stronger resumes, answer interview questions with confidence, and identify roles where you genuinely fit. 

The job market can be tricky and students are recognizing that: the Class of 2025 started their job searches an average of 6.4 months before graduation. Regardless of the market, the candidates who stand out most are the ones who have a clear strategy and self-understanding 

1. Inventory Your Skills and Experience 

Start by answering: What do I actually know how to do, and what have I accomplished? 

  • Skills (technical, lab, language, software, etc.) 
  • Competencies (transferable skills like communication, leadership, collaboration, problem-solving) 
  • Previous experience (industry background, relevant coursework, projects, co-ops) 
  • Global experience (study abroad, international projects, language practice) 

2. Build a Target List of 20-30 Companies 

Your goal is a curated list of companies where you actually want to work. This focus makes your applications stronger and your networking more effective. 

Where to find companies:  

  • NUworks (Northeastern’s job database—always start here) 
  • GoinGlobal (access through Resource Library on NUworks) 
  • LinkedIn (company pages and recruiter searches) 
  • Industry-specific publications and professional associations 

3. Stay Organized 

Set a recurring time each week for job search activities. Use a tool to track companies, contacts, and correspondence:  

  • Microsoft Excel (Job Search template) 
  • Free tools like Trello, Job Jibber, or Job Hero Kanban 

Staying organized prevents duplicate applications and helps you follow up strategically. 

Different methods yield different success rates. Most successful candidates use a mix of all three. 

1. Indirect Search: Online Job Boards (10% Success Rate) 

You search job boards like Indeed, SimplyHired, or industry-specific sites and apply through their system. 

  • Pros: Feels productive; large volume of postings 
  • Cons: Fierce competition; fewer than 10% of candidates are hired this way; without tailored applications, you’ll be rejected quickly 
  • Best for: Identifying companies to research further, not your primary strategy 

2. Direct Search: Company Websites (20% Success Rate) 

You visit companies on your target list, check their careers page, and apply directly. 

  • Pros: You can tailor your resume and cover letter; shows genuine interest in the company; fewer competitors than job boards 
  • Cons: Takes more time; fewer than 20% of positions are filled this way 
  • Best for: Targeted applications to companies you genuinely want to work for 

3. Networking: Personal Connections (70-80% Success Rate) 

You reach out to people at companies you’re interested in—alumni, professors, co-op contacts, or people you meet at events. 

  • Pros: Highest success rate by far; insiders tell you about openings before they’re posted; you stand out immediately 
  • Cons: Takes time and effort; requires you to be strategic and follow up consistently 
  • Best for: Your primary strategy 
  • Why it works: 70-80% of all positions are filled through networking. When you have a personal connection, you’re not competing in an application pile—you’re having a conversation. 

Combining All Three 

The strongest job seekers use all three strategies together:  

  • Use job boards to identify companies and roles 
  • Apply directly to companies on your target list 
  • Network actively by attending events, reaching out to alumni, and conducting informational interviews 

How to Get Started 

  1. Inventory your qualifications by reviewing your master resume and listing your technical skills, competencies, experience, and achievements. 
  1. Understand the job market standard: meet 100% of required qualifications and 80% of desired qualifications. 
  1. Build your target list of 20-30 companies using NUWorks, GoinGlobal, LinkedIn, and industry-specific sources. 
  1. Stay organized by tracking your applications, company contacts, and follow-ups in a spreadsheet or tool like Trello. 
  1. Use all three strategies: apply through job boards to identify companies, apply directly to companies on your target list, and network actively. 

How We Can Help 

Drop in or set up an appointment with a Career Counselor to: 

  • Inventory your qualifications 
  • Build a strategic target list of companies 
  • Develop a personalized search plan combining all three strategies (boards, direct, networking) 
  • Stay organized and motivated throughout your search 

Questions? 

Reach out to the Career Development office at huskycareers@northeastern.edu or visit the Career Studio for additional guidance.