Planning your next career move? Whether you’re entering the workforce for the first time or aiming for a more advanced role, having the right tools can make all the difference. Megan Baeza, UTPB’s executive director of career services, shares her expert advice on what your career toolkit should look like.  

Must-Have Career Tools for Every Aspiring Professional 

Your career toolkit should include both cutting-edge technology and practical skills. Here are the essentials every career-minded student needs. 

Top Online Platforms for Job Hunting 

Handshake 

“The first thing to do is activate a Handshake account,” Baeza advised. “It’s like Indeed.com for college students.” According to Baeza, students logging on today would see “over 25,000 jobs and internships available. Many here in Texas, all over the United States, and some are even global.” 

A job search platform tailored for college students, Handshake connects users with job and internship opportunities. Fortune 500 companies actively recruit on this platform, making it a must-have for students looking to stand out.  

SkillsFirst 

This AI-powered tool helps you tailor your resume to specific job descriptions. By highlighting the most relevant skills and keywords, you can ensure your application aligns with what employers are looking for, increasing your chances of getting noticed.  

Crafting a Winning Resume and Cover Letter 

Baeza estimates 99.9% of applications are now completed online, making it crucial to optimize your resume and cover letters for today’s technology. SkillsFirst’s resume builder identifies areas for improvement, helping you customize your application for each role. 

 “Customization is key,” Baeza explained. “If you don’t have the keywords, the customization, the correct format in your resume, those can all be problematic, [even if you] have the skills or qualifications.” 

Mastering Interviewing Techniques 

Strong interviewing skills require training, technology and people. Mastering the tried-and-true STAR method and “elevator pitch” are still helpful but are no longer enough. 

“We want our candidates to start strong,” Baeza explained. “We want them to have thought about important questions that they want to ask the employer. Both of you are interviewing, right? It’s a two-way street.” 

Tools like SkillsFirst allow you to practice responses, analyze body language, and refine your delivery.  

“This is something you can do in privacy … then [the career services team] can help you refine those minor things that you still maybe need to work on through one-on-one coaching.” 

Building a Professional Network 

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find job opportunities. Building a network takes time, but there are many ways to do it. Start by connecting with: 

  • Professors, classmates, and colleagues 
  • LinkedIn connections 
  • Alumni in your field 
  • Professional organizations and networking events 

Baeza urged students not to overlook contacts right in front of them: “You start in class, right? Who is your professor? Who are the other people in class with you? If you’re already working, who at your company can you connect with?” 

She also strongly suggests those with a clear career path in mind connect with people already working in those fields. “Who are the leaders in your industry? You need to be following those companies [on social media] and connect with people within those organizations. Also, alumni working in that industry. They have advice you need. Don’t be fearful of reaching out.” 

Polishing Your Professional Image 

Your appearance matters during interviews. Or as Baeza put it, “When you look good, you feel good.” Dress professionally and ensure your virtual interview setup is distraction-free: no crying babies or barking dogs! 

Baeza added that students near UTPB’s campus can borrow professional attire at no cost and have headshots taken right in the Career Services office. 

Staying Organized During Your Job Search 

Keep track of every application, including where you applied, whom you spoke with, and when. Follow-up promptly, especially with one gesture that can leave a big impression: 

“A lot of students forget that follow-up is key. You know, sending that thank-you note honoring someone’s time,” Baeza explained. 

Career Services: Your Partner in Success 

Baeza and her Career Services team provide ongoing support for UTPB students and alumni, offering access to Handshake, SkillsFirst, one-on-one coaching, and more—virtually and in person. 

Take advantage of these resources today to set yourself apart in the competitive job market and let UTPB Career Services help you land the job you want.  

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