How to Begin your Search.

Starting a job or practicum search can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes the process much more approachable. Here are some concrete tips to get you started:

Know Yourself, Your Goals, & Priorities

  • Before diving into job listings, take some time to reflect on your skills, interests, and career goals. Ask yourself:
    • What classes did I enjoy? Which ones did I not?
    • What are my strengths and weaknesses?
    • What type of work do I enjoy? Maybe you enjoy writing, brainstorming with a team, or being hands on in the community.
    • Where do you think you want to go with your career? This is going to change. That’s okay, but if you see yourself at a non-profit organization running health programs — that’s helpful to know!

Learn More about Careers in Public Health

Create a Job Search Plan for Applying

Having a plan can help keep your job search organized and efficient. Follow the checklist on the Search Process page:

Research Organizations of Interest

  • Identify Companies of Interest.
    It helps you stay up to date on who’s who and doing what in the field.

    • We recommend a list of at least 30 target employers to help you stay up to date on who’s who and doing what in your area of interest.
  • Use Job Search Engines & Company Websites.
    There are many online resources like Job Search Engines: like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to search for jobs by keyword, location, and industry, and Company Websites: Visit the careers section of companies you’re interested in to find job openings.
  • Create a Tracking Spreadsheet to Organize your Information. See below for how to.

Write Your Application Pieces

  • Tailor Each Applications to the Specific Job.
  • Write a custom cover letter for each job that highlights why you’re a good fit.
  • Adjust your resume to emphasize the most relevant experiences and skills in alignment with the job description.

Create a Professional Network In-Person & Online

Networking is often the key to finding job opportunities and gaining insights into the company or industry.

  • Reach Out.
    Contact former colleagues, mentors, BU/SPH alumni, and friends to let them know you’re looking for new opportunities.
  • Attend Events.
    Including career fairs, information sessions, and workshops. Join external industry events, webinars, and professional groups to meet new contacts.
  • Create/Update your Profiles in LinkedIn & Handshake.

Learn More about Networking

Plan & Track You Search Process

  • Create a Tracking Spreadsheet of Your Top Organizations.
    This way, you will have a few companies that you can be proactive about, even if you’re mostly applying reactively.

    • Column Headings to Include: organization name, website, location, mission, why company is of interest, your network there (via SPH, family, etc.), last point of contact with them, status/activity (applications, conversations, follow-up actions, etc.)
    • Have their careers page linked, contacts you have at the organization and notes on the last time you were in contact with them, the jobs you applied for, and other information that can help you keep organized.
    • Other potential columns: Company notes, why company stands out, notes on conversation with your contacts, date of last contact, tips/tricks contact has told you on how to stand out in company.
  • Set Goals.
    Determine how many jobs you want to apply for each week.
  • Schedule Time.
    Dedicate specific times each day or week to job searching and networking.
  • Keep Track of your Applications & Job Descriptions.
    • We recommend you keep a folder organized by company name and role. Include a copy of your resume, cover letter, and job description in Word format. This will be very important when you get called for an interview so you can refer back and use those materials to prepare in case the company removes the posting before starting interviews.
    • Use a spreadsheet to track the jobs you’ve applied for and follow up when necessary.
  • Set a Reminder.
    Review your list and check the careers page weekly. Apply as soon as you see new jobs posted and let your contacts know your applied, mentioning you would greatly appreciate them putting in a good word for you if they are able. Also attach your resume in pdf format to the email.
  • As you network and expand your knowledge of the industry, your sheet will expand too. Aim for your top company list to be 30-40 companies.

Interviewing

  • Once you start getting interview requests, be ready to impress.
  • Research: Learn about the company and the role.
  • Practice: Rehearse common interview questions and your answers.
  • Dress Appropriately: Choose professional attire that fits the company culture. Check out BU’s Professional Clothing Closet

Learn More about Interviewing

Most importantly–stay positive & persistent!

The CPO has found it takes an average of 3-6 months of serious searching to land a role. Job searching can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude is crucial. Have faith in yourself and ask for help!

Note: Also view the practicum page for more focused information on your practicum search.