The UMA Career Connections staff is ready to support students and alumni through every stage of the job search. Because landing the right role takes strategy and dedication, we are here to help you master the key steps to success.

Staff members are available to meet in person, over the phone, via email, or through Zoom. Schedule an appointment today.

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What is career readiness?

Career readiness refers to the attainment of skills, knowledge, and attributes that prepare individuals for success in the workplace and in their chosen careers. It encompasses a broad range of competencies beyond technical skills, focusing on personal qualities, professional behaviors, and adaptability. Career readiness is essential for individuals to effectively navigate the complexities of today’s job market and to thrive in their careers.

Overall, career readiness is about equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to succeed in the workplace and to effectively manage their careers over time. It is a lifelong process of learning, growth, and development that empowers individuals to achieve their full potential in their chosen careers.

The National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE) has identified eight career readiness competencies, each of which can be demonstrated in a variety of ways.

  • Career & Self Development
  • Communication
  • Critical Thinking
  • Equity & Inclusion
  • Leadership
  • Professionalism
  • Teamwork
  • Technology

For more information about this initiative, please download the NACE Competencies handout (PDF), or visit the NACE Career Competencies website.

A resume is your ticket to a job interview—think of it as a personal advertisement on paper. While there are many ways to build a resume, focus on finding a style that works best for you while following these core guidelines:

  • Keep it brief: Limit your resume to 1 page if possible (two at the very most).
  • Be consistent: Keep your formatting, spacing, font sizes, and styles uniform throughout.
  • Keep it clean: Ensure it is simple to read and visually appealing.
  • Use active language: Start bullet points with strong action verbs to showcase your developing skills.
  • Prioritize information: Present your qualifications from most important to least important.
  • Proofread: Check your work multiple times and have others review it, too.

Tools to create your draft:

Cover Letters

A cover letter is a formal letter of application that accompanies your resume. It is designed to introduce yourself, convey genuine enthusiasm, and convince an employer that your unique skills and background make you worth interviewing. It highlights your skills and what you bring to a particular organization. It should convey enthusiasm for the opportunity, and demonstrate your knowledge of the employer’s goals and needs.

Most cover letters are 3 to 5 paragraphs long and follow a standard formula:

  • First Paragraph (The Purpose): State the position you are applying for, how you heard about it, and why you are interested in this specific organization.
  • Middle Paragraphs (The Fit): Connect your education and experience directly to the job requirements. Use these paragraphs to add deeper context or specific examples rather than just repeating your resume text.
  • Closing Paragraph (The Ask): Request an interview to discuss your qualifications. Offer to provide additional materials (like references or transcripts) and thank them for their time.
  • Enclosures: Include any specifically requested documents, or explain when and how they will be provided.

Pro-Tips for Success:

  • Always use a standard business letter format.
  • Address the letter to a specific person (hiring manager, department head, or search committee chair). You may need to call the company or look online to find the right name, but the effort pays off!
  • Keep it to one page maximum on high-quality paper, and ensure it is entirely free of typos.
  • Always send a tailored, digital, or printed original—never use a generic photocopied template.

To create a draft cover letter:

References

Whether an employer asks for a traditional reference list or formal letters of recommendation, managing this process professionally can secure your next opportunity.

1. Why do they matter?

Employers use references to verify your skills, achievements, and work ethic before extending an offer.

  • Corporate sectors typically prefer a quick phone call or short reference list.
  • Education, healthcare, and social services frequently require formal, written letters of recommendation.

2. Who should I ask?

Select individuals who have directly supervised or evaluated your work. A mix of academic and professional references provides the most well-rounded view.

  • Avoid: Family, friends, or peers.
  • Ideal choices: Former supervisors, professors, or volunteer coordinators.

3. When should I request them?

Timing is everything. Request letters or permission to use someone as a reference while your strong performance is fresh in their mind—such as right after completing a class, internship, or job.

  • Pro-Tip: Give your references at least 2–3 weeks’ notice, batch your requests all at once, and keep them updated on your job search progress.

4. What should I provide to my references?

Help your references write the strongest endorsement possible. First, ask them directly: “Do you feel comfortable providing a supportive recommendation for me?”

If they agree, provide them with a “brag sheet” packet:

  • Your updated resume.
  • The target job description.
  • A brief reminder of specific projects, transcripts, or coursework you completed under their supervision.

5. Where and how do I submit them?

Always follow the employer’s exact application instructions.

  • If not requested upfront: Bring a clean, printed copy to your interview, ready to hand over if asked.
  • If requested upfront: Include your reference document with your initial application materials.

6. Waive your right to view? (Confidentiality)

Many graduate schools and employers prefer confidential letters. Waiving your right to view the letter often signals to employers that the recommendation is candid and highly credible. Discuss this preference with your writer beforehand.

  • Note: Some universities hold and mail out recommendation letters for students; UMA does not offer a central letter-holding service. Students are responsible for managing and submitting their own reference materials.

What Employers Look For

If your reference asks what they should cover, or if you want to know what traits employers value most, here is what matters in today’s market:

Key Evaluation Areas

  • Context: How long and in what capacity the reference has known you.
  • Workplace Dynamics: How you interact with peers, co-workers, and supervisors.
  • Growth & Coachability: Your motivation, potential, and how you handle constructive feedback.
  • Comparative Performance: How your work ethic compares to other students or employees.

Skills and characteristics employers are interested in include:

  • Professional Traits
    • Quality of work & consistency
    • Initiative & motivation
    • Integrity & honesty
  • Interpersonal Skills
    • Communication (written & oral)
    • Maturity & social skills
    • Collaboration & teamwork
  • Core Competencies
    • Problem-solving ability
    • Technical & computer literacy
    • Management & leadership potential

Creating a Reference List

When an employer requests a list rather than a letter, format the document to match the font and header style of your resume for a cohesive, professional look.

For each reference, include:

  • A brief line explaining the relationship (e.g., “Former Supervisor at XYZ Marketing”)
  • Full Name & Professional Title
  • Current Organization/Company
  • Complete Mailing Address
  • Daytime Phone Number & Email Address

Preparing for the Interview

Interviews are the culmination of the hard work you have put into your job search process. Careful research, preparation and effective communication will help you put your best foot forward.

Employers are highly impressed by candidates who understand thair mission, analyze the job description, and show genuine energy. Interviewing, like any skill, is something you can improve on with practice. UMA Career Connections offers a variety of resources to help you practice and prepare for your next interview.

  • Know Yourself: Identify your core interests, skills, and career goals. Being ready to discuss your strengths, areas for growth, and education will help you feel much more comfortable.
  • Research the Employer: Learn about their services, products, size, and company culture to make sure they are a good fit for you. Search for recent news using Google News, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and corporate social channels.
  • Research the Position: Understand how your skills fit the role, and look up standard salary ranges using tools like O*NET or Salary.com so you are prepared to negotiate down the road.
  • Practice typical interview questions. By formulating your answers ahead of time, you will likely feel more confident in your answers, and will be more likely to impress the interviewer(s). Be sure to practice different types of questions (behavioral/scenario questions, etc.)
  • Prepare Your Own Questions: Have at least 5 thoughtful questions ready for the interviewer to show you have done your homework. Here are some examples:
    • What qualities make someone truly successful in this position?
    • Can you describe a typical day or week for this role?
    • What will the biggest challenges facing this department or organization?
    • How will the person in this position be evaluated?
    • What are the opportunities for professional development?
    • What are the next steps in the hiring process, and when might I expect to hear from you?

Master the Interview Questions

Practicing your answers out loud builds immense confidence. Expect two main styles of questions:

Common Questions (The “Fit” Check) – Designed to learn about your personality and goals:

  • Tell me about yourself.
  • Why are you interested in this position?
  • Where do you see yourself after graduation?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • Can you describe one or two of your most important accomplishments?
  • What are your strengths and weaknesses?
  • Why should I hire you?
  • What do you hope to gain from this position?
  • List three things your former supervisor/co-workers would say about you.

The other type of interview questions are behavioral interview questions. These questions are designed to find out how you’ve behaved in the past, and to give employers a sense of how you might do in the future.

Behavioral Interview Questions – Designed to see how you handle real-world situations based on your past actions:

  • Describe a time when you were faced with a stressful situation that demonstrated your coping skills.
  • Give me a specific example of a time when you used good judgment and logic in solving a problem.
  • Give me an example of a time when you set a goal and were able to meet or achieve it.
  • Tell me about a time when you had too many things to do and you were required to prioritize your tasks.
  • Give me an example of a time when something you tried to accomplish and failed.
  • What is your typical way of dealing with conflict? Give me an example.
  • Give me an example of when you showed initiative and took the lead.

When answering behavioral questions, always use the SAR Approach to keep your stories focused and impactful:

  • S – Situation: Briefly explain the situation or problem you faced.
  • A – Action: Describe the specific steps you took to address it.
  • R – Result: Share the positive outcome or what you learned from the experience.

Interview Success Tips

  • Be early: Arrive 10 to 15 minutes ahead of schedule to settle in.
  • First impressions matter: Dress appropriately, make strong eye contact, and offer a firm, friendly greeting to everyone you meet—including the receptionist!
  • Body language: Sit when invited to do so. Keep loose personal bags or briefcases at your feet rather than on the interviewer’s desk.
  • Disconnect: Turn all mobile and electronic devices completely off (vibrate mode can still be distracting).
  • Follow up: Thank the interviewers at the end of the meeting, and send a brief thank-you email or note within 24 hours.

Mock Interviews

  • The best way to become more comfortable in an interview setting is to practice, practice and practice more! For many people, talking about themselves, their skills and abilities can be challenging.
  • If you anticipate worries with the interview process, it may be wise to schedule a mock interview with a Career Connections staff member. We will interview you, record the interview, and critique it with you. This experience will allow you to “see how you interview,” as well as determine your strengths and weaknesses in the interview and help you practice for the “real” interview.

Big Interview

Big Interview is an online system that combines training AND practice to help improve your interview technique and build your confidence.

You have at your disposal a variety of tools including:

  • Challenging, virtual mock interviews for all experience levels and dozens of industries
  • A database of thousands of interview questions with tips on how to answer them
  • The ability to rate and share your interview answers for feedback
  • A comprehensive video training curriculum covering all aspects of landing a job
  • A step-by-step interview Answer Builder for crafting answers to behavioral questions

To log in, please click on the Big Interview Icon on your UMA Portal Launchpad.

Big Interview Icon

If you would prefer a live mock interview, please contact Haley Brown, Student Services Coordinator, by emailing hbrown120@maine.edu or calling 207-621-3130.

Networking Strategies

Building a strong professional network is one of the most effective ways to discover unadvertised opportunities. Reach out to UMA alumni, join professional associations in your field, and optimize your LinkedIn profile to make it easy for professional contacts and recruiters to find you.

Elevator Pitch

You won’t always have the luxury of a full, scheduled interview to make a great impression. Whether you are walking up to a recruiter at a UMA career fair, meeting an alum at a networking mixer, or chatting in a literal elevator, you need a quick, compelling way to introduce yourself.

This is your Elevator Pitch—a brief, 30-to-60-second “commercial” that summarizes who you are, what you’re good at, and where you want to go.

Ready to build yours? Download our Elevator Pitch worksheet (PDF) to to map out your pitch step-by-step!

The Core Elements of a Great Pitch

A successful elevator pitch does more than just list your major. To grab an employer’s attention, it needs to answer three questions:

  1. Who are you? (Your name, major, and current status at UMA).
  2. What do you bring to the table? (Your core skills, strengths, or relevant experiences).
  3. What is your goal? (What you want from this specific person—whether it’s a job lead, an informational interview, or just a way to stay in touch).

Sample Pitches

Here is how two UMA students tailored their pitches for different industries:

Hello, my name is Jane, and I’m a student at UMA working toward my Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity. I’m incredibly interested in joining your tech support team! My coursework has given me a strong foundation in technical problem-solving, customer service, and systems integration. I pride myself on my attention to detail and positive attitude, and I’d love to learn how I can help make technology a seamless experience for your users at [Company Name].

“Hi, my name is John, and I’m in my final semester at UMA studying Mental Health and Human Services. I’ve spent the last year interning at several local clinical practices, which really sharpened my skills in crisis advocacy, communication, and client care. I’m graduating soon and excited to enter the field full-time. I’ve been following [Company Name]’s work, and I’d love to hear more about what you look for when hiring a [Job Title].“

4 Tips for a Flawless Delivery

Once you have your words down on paper, it’s all about how you say it. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your delivery lands perfectly:

  1. Bring the Energy: Smile and show genuine enthusiasm. If you sound bored by your own story, the recruiter will be too!
  2. Stay Flexible: Don’t memorize your pitch word-for-word like a robot. Treat it as a flexible framework. If you’ve met the person before, skip the formal introduction and jump straight into your update.
  3. Practice Until It’s Natural: Practice in front of a mirror, pitch to friends or family, or record a video of yourself on your phone. Listen back to check your pacing and tone.
  4. Know Your Audience: Tailor the “ask” at the end of your pitch to the person standing in front of you.

Where Else to Use Your Pitch

The beauty of a perfected elevator pitch is that it is highly versatile. Once you’ve nailed it, you can repurpose it to:

  • Write a compelling LinkedIn summary or objective statement.
  • Draft the opening paragraph of a cover letter.
  • Flawlessly answer the classic, dreaded interview question: “Tell me about yourself.”

Need help polishing your pitch? Connect with UMA Career Connections today to schedule a mock networking session!

LinkedIn

The Basics: Building Your Profile

LinkedIn publishes some fantastic guides to help get you started. Download this Student Guide to LinkedIn (PDF) designed specifically for university students who are looking to build a strong profile on LinkedIn. One important thing to keep in mind is that LinkedIn is not the same as Facebook: your content, including the photo that you choose, should be designed with a professional audience in mind.

The Basics: Building Your Network

So, you’ve made your LinkedIn profile- now what? It’s time to start building your LinkedIn network! There are several ways to find people that you want to connect with via LinkedIn:

  1. The first option is to use the search bar at the top of the page to find users by name. Start with your friends, relatives, and coworkers to begin building your network. Be sure to view their profile and make sure you’ve found the right person before you add them!
  2. You can also add connections under the “My Network” tab of the website. This will provide the option to connect with your email contacts, add suggested people based on algorithms and mutual connections, or invite your contacts who aren’t on LinkedIn yet to join the site. The “My Network” tab is also where you can view invitations that others have sent you.
  3. When you’re adding people, try to send personalized invitations whenever possible. LinkedIn will provide a generic invitation text, but we recommend mixing it up to make your connection more personal.

When someone sends you a request, you also have a few different options:

  1. Accept or decline, if you’re sure that you do or do not want that person in your network. They will only notified if you accept their request.
  2. Reply to their request: this is a good option if you want to ask how/if you know them, or if you have other questions for them before you want to add them.
  3. Report their request: this is a good option if you think you’ve received a spam request.

We don’t recommend linking with strangers, unless you can be introduced through a mutual connection, or you have a good reason for contacting them (e.g. you recognize them from one of your UMA classes, even though you haven’t yet been formally introduced).

Ready, set, network!

Social Media Tips

The modern job search extends beyond just the interview and the resume. It’s becoming increasingly common for employers to Google-search candidates and view their social media profiles before making a decision. In addition, there are countless recent stories of employees being terminated from their current employment due to inappropriate conduct on social media platforms.

This doesn’t mean that you can’t use social media, but here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Search yourself. This will let you see what others see when they Google-search your name, so you can make sure you’re happy with the content they might find. Opening Google in an incognito or InPrivate browsing window will allow you to see yourself from a stranger’s point of view.
  2. Double check your privacy settings. The default settings are not always the most private, so you may have to manually adjust them to keep complete strangers from viewing your content.
  3. Review your profiles. Do a quick scan of what you’ve already posted, and make sure you’d be comfortable with an employer seeing it.
  4. When in doubt, leave it out! If you’re not sure whether something is appropriate for social media, it’s better to stay on the safe side, and share it with friends directly rather than publicly.

Career Conversations

What is a “career conversation”?
A career conversation is a casual, one-on-one conversation with a professional working in an industry or company you’re curious about. Think of it as a research project where the subject is your future career.

It is one of the most effective ways to uncover hidden employment leads, get insider advice, and figure out if a career path is the right fit for you – before you apply.

How to Find and Schedule a Conversation

  1. Start with Your Warm Network
    • You already know more professional connections than you think! Begin by reaching out to:
      • Friends and family members
      • Current or former coworkers
      • Fellow UMA students and faculty
      • Neighbors and local community members
        • Pro-Tip: Every person you know has a network of their own. Even if they don’t work in your dream field, they might know someone who does!
  2. Expand Your Horizons
    • Ready to branch out? Use these digital and community resources to find new connections:
      • LinkedIn: Search for UMA alumni or join professional groups in your target industry.
      • Professional Associations: Look up local chapters of national organizations.
      • Directories: Check out company websites and organizational directories.
  3. Make the Ask
    • Once you’ve identified a contact, reach out via email or LinkedIn to request a brief 15-to-30-minute chat by phone, video call, or coffee.

Making a Great Impression

Whether you are sitting down for a scheduled video call or chatting with an employer at a UMA career fair, first impressions matter.

  • Be Professional: Maintain a positive attitude, practice active listening, and respect their time.
  • Dress the Part: Dress appropriately for the industry, even if the meeting is virtual.
  • Come Prepared: Never show up empty-handed. Research the person and the company beforehand, and always bring a list of targeted questions.

The Question Bank

Do not try to ask all of these! Choose 3 to 5 questions that align with your current goals, how much time you have, and how well you know the person.

Questions for Career Exploration and Industry Research:

  • What does a typical career path look like in this field or organization?
  • This industry has changed rapidly recently. What has your experience been like?
  • What are the upcoming trends or challenges you see facing this field?
  • Which skills, personality traits, and values are most critical for success here?
  • What can someone expect from an entry-level position (in terms of title, salary range, etc.)?
  • Are there other related fields or roles you suggest I look into before deciding?

Questions About a Specific Job or Company:

  • Could you describe a typical workday or week for you?
  • How would you describe the work environment and company culture here?
  • What separates a really strong candidate from the competition for a role at your company?
  • Is there anything specific I should emphasize in my application materials?
  • What might training and professional development look like for a new hire?
  • “While researching your company, I noticed that [insert recent news/project]. Can you tell me more about that?”

Questions About the Other Person:

  • How did you decide to pursue this career, and what was your undergraduate major?
  • How did your college experience help prepare you for what you do now?
  • What do you like most—and least—about your job and this industry?
  • Which past experiences or jobs did you find most helpful in preparing for this role?
  • If you could start all over again, would you change anything about your career path?

Questions for Next Steps:

  • What can I be doing prior to my UMA graduation to best prepare for this field?
  • Are there specific classes, certifications, or tools you think I should master?
  • Are there any books, trade publications, or journals you recommend I read?
  • Is there anyone else you recommend I talk to? If so, may I mention that you referred me?
  • Can we stay connected on LinkedIn or via email for future conversations?

Wrapping Up/Next Steps

When your time is up, respect the boundary. Thank them explicitly for their time and insights.

The Golden Rule: Always send a personalized thank-you email within 24 hours of your meeting. Express gratitude for their specific advice and keep them updated on your progress—building a genuine, long-term professional relationship starts here!

Uncover the Hidden Job Market
Did you know that a vast number of job openings are never publicly advertised? Instead, companies fill them internally or through professional networking. To find these hidden roles:

  • Use the UMA CareerLink employer directory to pinpoint organizations in your target industry.
  • Research specific companies on LinkedIn to check if you share any mutual connections who could introduce you.
  • Check the “Careers” or “Join Our Team” sections directly on target corporate websites.

Attend Career and Job Fairs

  • Career fairs allow you to meet face-to-face with dozens of employers in a single day. These events are perfect for making a memorable personal impression, growing your network, and discovering immediate openings.
  • UMA proudly hosts a major Job & Resource Fair at least once per year.
  • Keep an eye out for employers visiting our campuses throughout the year for networking tables and information sessions.

Partner with Placement Agencies

Consider working with reputable third-party recruiters and staffing agencies. They can assist you in finding full-time, part-time, or contract opportunities across nearly every major career field and industry.

UMA CareerLink

CareerLink Cube

UMA CareerLink is UMA’s online job/internship database, and career exploration system. 

Our exclusive internal hub where regional and national employers post jobs and internships specifically looking to hire UMA students and alumni. Use it to build your resume, manage your applications, and research vetted employers.

Current Students: Please click on the blue cube in your UMA Portal Launchpad. If your account comes up with an error/disabled message, please contact Haley Brown at umacareer@maine.edu.

Alumni: Please click on this link to visit the login/registration page. This is also the link you will need to log into your account in the future.

UMA CareerLink On The Go!

Easily search and apply for jobs and connect with employers before, during and after career fairs.

Careers By Symplicity App Access UMA CareerLink on the go! Finding your next step just got easier. Get personalized job and internship recommendations matched to your unique interests and goals. Explore top roles, save your favorites, and apply instantly. From expert resume reviews to exclusive recruiting events, your entire professional future is right here in one app. Access it on Google Play or the App Store. Presented by: UMA Career Connections, ​uma.edu/career-connections

For Students, Alumni and Faculty: The UMA CareerLink database is provided by the Career Connections program at the University of Maine at Augusta. Users are responsible for reviewing the opportunities on a case-by-case basis and should use caution and common sense before applying for any opportunity. For example, no employer or prospective employer should require an applicant or employee to spend that person’s own funds for any business reason or to deposit checks into personal bank accounts and then make withdrawals. Employment, internship and volunteer application processes are the sole responsibility of the student. Employment is not guaranteed, implied, or warranted in any way by the University of Maine at Augusta or the employing organizations.

Job Search Sites

Occupational Trends/Employer & Salary Information

Job Search Advice

Hiring Events in Maine

DISCLAIMER: The University of Maine at Augusta offers this site as a convenience to the University community. The University does not recommend or endorse any of the job opportunities or employers listed. The University has made no independent investigation of, and makes no representations, guarantees, or warranties regarding the safety, wages, working conditions, or other aspects of employment, including but not limited to, the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. It is the sole responsibility of the student or other users of this site to research and check out the integrity of the organization(s) to which they are applying. The University is not responsible for any liability or damage arising from the use of information on this site.

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UMA is partnering with Indeed’s Job Search Academy to bring you a free, virtual
career development program created to help you excel in your job search.

Visit our custom Job Search Academy Landing Page to view on-demand workshops and upcoming webinars.

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In the professional world, first impressions happen in the inbox. Digital etiquette—or “netiquette”—is a critical component of your job search. The way you craft an email signals your attention to detail, communication skills, and respect for a recruiter’s time.

Before you hit “Send,” use this guide to ensure your digital communication opens doors instead of closing them.

The Anatomy of a Professional Email

Every email you send to an employer should feature these essential building blocks:

A Formal Greeting & Sign-off: Start with a respectful salutation (“Dear Professional Development Team,” or “Hello Baseline Recruiting Team,”) and close with a polished “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your contact info.

A Professional Sender Address: Skip the childhood nicknames (leave partyanimal101@hotmail.com in the past). Use your official university email address (maine.edu) or a clean variation of your name via Gmail (e.g., janesmith@gmail.com).

A Clear, Actionable Subject Line: Recruiters are busy. State exactly what the email is about.

Example: Application: Marketing Coordinator – Jane Smith

Common Email Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them)

Navigating the modern workplace requires cultural awareness and digital savvy. Avoid these frequent missteps:

  • Making Assumptions About Gender & Identity
    • Don’t guess a recipient’s pronouns or honorifics (like Mr. or Ms.) based on a name alone. Many names are gender-neutral, and assumptions can create an awkward first impression.
      • The Fix: Address the person by their full name (e.g., “Dear Taylor Swift,”) or use their job title if names aren’t available. Check their LinkedIn profile beforehand, as many professionals now explicitly list their pronouns there.
  • Typing in ALL CAPS
    • Writing a sentence or subject line in all capital letters is universally interpreted as shouting online.
      • The Fix: Use standard sentence case. If you need to emphasize a deadline or key piece of information, use italics or bolding sparingly.
  • Ghosting Your Own Inbox
    • In today’s fast-paced hiring market, time-sensitive interview requests and job offers happen almost exclusively via email, not phone calls. Checking your inbox once a week could mean missing out on your dream job.
      • The Fix: Download your email client’s app on your phone and turn on notifications. Aim to respond to professional inquiries within 24 to 48 business hours.
  • Sending in the “Heat of the Moment”
    • The internet is permanent, and screenshots last forever. If you receive a rejection letter or a frustrating update, sending an immediate, emotional response can burn a bridge permanently.
      • The Fix: Draft your response in a separate document (or leave the “To” field blank so you don’t accidentally send it). Sleep on it, or run it by a Career Connections advisor before hitting reply.
  • Smothering the Recruiter (Following Up Too Soon)
    • Recruiters handle hundreds of applicants. Following up 24 hours after submitting an application or an interview can come across as aggressive and impatient.
      • The Fix: Give employers 5 to 7 business days to respond before sending a polite follow-up nudge.

Pro-Tips

Beware of AI Clones: If you use generative AI (like ChatGPT) to help draft your cover letters or emails, always customize them. Recruiters can spot generic, overly formal AI-generated text from a mile away. Let AI build your framework, but use your voice.

Format for Mobile: Over half of all emails are opened on smartphones. Keep your paragraphs short (2–3 sentences max) so recruiters don’t have to scroll through a daunting wall of text.

Hyperlink, Don’t Paste: Instead of pasting a massive, ugly URL for your digital portfolio or LinkedIn profile, use clean hyperlinks.