Newswise--The reality is that most students need some sort of income while enrolled in post-secondary education. But now you have to think about balancing your academics, extracurricular activities and a social life. On top of it all, you want a job that will not only suit your lifestyle but also provide you with the experience you need to succeed after you graduate.

Recent graduates Chris Alleyne and Latham French, working in Ryerson University's Digital Media Zone, are developing Fanfare, an online recruiting platform specifically designed for post-secondary students. They have developed seven tips to help guide students through the job search process:

1. Brainstorm.
Before beginning the job search, you need to determine what you're looking for in a job. On a piece of paper, create a list of everything that you want the job to provide. Once completed, assign each item on the list a number from (1) indicating the most important to (3) indicating the least important. Finally, group all of the corresponding numbers together to form a master list. Your master list will serve as a valuable reference in finding a job that fits your needs.

2. Search.
With your priorities set, you're ready to begin the search. Start by utilizing your network of peers, friends and family. Notify them that you are on a job hunt and ask if they are aware of any available opportunities. Expand your reach by sharing updates over social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. A referral from a member of your network can land you a job faster than expected. Also, be sure to utilize valuable school resources such as internship programs, career centers, job fairs and external student-focused job boards. Identify jobs that best meet your needs by using your master list. Searching requires persistence. Visit these resources frequently to ensure you don't miss any good opportunities.

3. Apply.
You've found job opportunities that fit you. Now it is time to apply.

Cover letters: Employers commonly request cover letters and resumes from all interested candidates. Your cover letter should introduce you to the employer and indicate why you are best suited for the position. Customize your cover letter to each job description and provide examples of your experience that will fit key job requirements.

Resumés: Your resumé should support the skills highlighted in your cover letter and offer further detail. Quantify the results or benefits you produced for previous employers to demonstrate the value you bring to the table. Differentiate! Be creative with your applications to be remembered and stand out from others. However, don't sacrifice function for form.
Update your cover letter and resumé frequently to include newly acquired skills. Proper formatting with accurate spelling and grammar are the first steps to making it past this stage.

4. Interview.
You've separated yourself from the pack, but you are not home free yet. Many employers opt for behavioral interviews when evaluating candidates. A behavioral interview is based on the premise that your previous behavior in certain situations is a good indication of how you will behave in the future. When responding to behavioral questions, fit your response in to the STAR framework:

Situation or Task: describe the situation or task accomplished. Be specific.

Action: explain your thought process and how you reacted to the situation or task.

Results: emphasize the results of your actions or lessons learned.

Improve your chances of being selected by:

• Researching the company and the industry it is a part of to build your knowledge;
• Reviewing your cover letter and resumé and answering mock questions;
• Dressing appropriately--your first impression is critical;
• Asking thoughtful questions about the company, position and support available;
• Being yourself--genuine approach radiates confidence and builds better rapport.

5. Decide.
All that hard work has paid off and you've got a job offer in hand! But that doesn't mean you are obliged to take it. The ball now is in your court and you have a choice to make. Ask yourself if you are still interested in the job and if you believe you can fulfill the employer's expectations. If the answer is no, graciously decline the offer (if possible, provide a reason why) and continue the job search. If the answer is yes, graciously accept and ask for the next steps. Depending on the type of job, the offer may or may not be formal. If the employer presents you with an employment contact, don't feel shy to:

• Ask for time to review the contract;
• Ask questions about any terms you don't understand;
• Negotiate unsatisfactory terms--however, don't be pushy.

6. Prove yourself.
You've started the job and now it is your time to shine. Always put your best foot forward by:

• Being punctual and meeting deadlines (if you can't, advise your employer or ask for help);
• Building meaningful relationships with colleagues;
• Participating in meetings, events or extracurricular activities;
• Asking for new and exciting challenges--remember, you're looking to build new skills;
• Seeking feedback about the quality of your work and ways to improve;
• Being proactive, which will get you noticed and allow you to develop more skills. Think of your time with the company as an extended interview leading to future opportunities.

7. Repeat.
A job should not be static, especially when you are first starting out. Experience a variety of opportunities to diversify your skill set and discover where your passion and interests lie. Revisit step one with each new work experience and make the most of the job market!

SOURCE: Ryerson University