Career Services at the University of Connecticut offers in-person and online resources to current students and alumni throughout the job search process. Go to http://www.career.uconn.edu for more information on:

• Career Exploration
• Calendars detailing upcoming speakers and events
• Programs & Workshops
• Internships/ Co-Ops
• How to create resumes and cover letters
• Interviewing tips and “Mock Interviews”

The Job Hunt

When searching for a job, it is important to conduct a diverse search. Be sure to utilize the following resources and strategies:

• Networking (e.g., friends, contacts, clubs)
• Online applications/ search engines
• Newspapers/ trade journals
• Career Fairs

Research is not just for professors! To prepare for an interview, research a potential employer thoroughly. Show that you have prepared with specific questions. It is also important to research typical salaries and benefits to prepare for job offers and possible negotiations.

The Interview

This is your time to shine! Use the resources of Career Services and follow these hints to leave the best impression:

• Prepare and practice answers to typically-asked questions (e.g., "What are your strengths and weaknesses?")
• Research potential employers and prepare specific questions to ask the interviewer(s)
• Plan your route to arrive early
• Bring copies of your resume and portfolio (if applicable)
• Bring copies of references
• Dress appropriately (dependent on job and position, but a suit is usually the standard for interviews)
• Avoid initiating specific salary questions in a first interview
• Obtain names of people who you met and follow-up after interview with a thank you email/note

Compensation (AKA Salary & Benefits)

You got the job! When you receive a formal written offer of employment, it is important to understand that your compensation may include more than a weekly or bi-weekly paycheck. "Total compensation" includes:

Monetary Compensation

This is money paid to you for working and may or may not be negotiable. When considering a job offer, make sure you understand the following:

• What is the annual salary?

You should always obtain this information in writing, along with your potential job title and start date.

• Is commission applicable, and if so, what it is?
• What is the timing of raises?
• What are typical pay increases?

Lifestyle Benefits

These vary greatly and MAY include:

• Paid time off (e.g., sick, vacation, personal days)
• Work-life balance (e.g., work-from-home options)
• Organization “culture” (e.g., casual dress)
• Work location/ workspace
• Parking

Traditional Benefits

These also vary by employer and MAY include:

• Medical and dental insurances
• Disability and Long-term care insurances
• Life insurance
• Health and Child Care Spending Accounts
• Retirement Savings Plans and Employer Match
• Paid continuing education
• Professional dues and malpractice insurance

Questions to ask about benefits

When considering a job offer, make sure you know the answer to the following questions:

• When will I become eligible for benefits?
• What does this medical/dental insurance cover?

Specifically how many visits allowed, covered prescriptions, etc.

• How much will this benefit cost?

Insurance premiums: Payments deducted from your paycheck

Deductibles: What amount (if any) must you pay before insurance kicks in?

Co-Pays: The amount you pay for each service at the time of the visit

• How can I change benefits?
• When are annual enrollment periods?
• Where may I find more information?

Other Resources:

• Husky CareerLink

CareerSearch – search for jobs nationally and internationally

Vault – database of industry, company, and occupational profiles

• Internships Research and search for internship opportunities
• Husky Alumni Network Initiate career networking with a UConn alumni and view job and resume postings