Establishing a virtual presence online is more important right now than ever. Recruiters from top companies will be looking for talent online, as in-person opportunities such as Career Fairs and Networking Events, are not currently possible. It may be true that some companies will be curtailing hiring, at least for the time being, but many companies are moving forward with hiring for both full-time jobs and internships, making our Handshake system a key resource for seeking opportunities.
Did you know, 65% of UConn undergraduates are active in Handshake, yet only 29% of these students have a completed profile? Handshake users with completed profiles are 5x more likely to be contacted by employers. With in-person events not possible, this becomes even more important!
What should you do next? Review the content below to either “Get Started on Handshake” for the first time, or to learn “How to Stand Out to Recruiters” by enhancing your profile.
Get Started on Handshake
1. Log In.
We have already set up a Handshake account for you. Just go to uconn.joinhandshake.com, click on the blue “University of Connecticut Student Login” button and follow the prompts to log in and get started.
2. Introduce Yourself.
Your profile is your time to shine, so don’t be shy about listing your accomplishments. Because the potential employers know about you, the better the chance they’ll reach out. Make sure to list all of your hard work — in the classroom and out — in your profile.
3. Tell us what you want to do and where you want to be.
Set your preferences for the types of jobs and locations you are interested in, so Handshake finds the right opportunities for you. Searching through hundreds of job postings that don’t fit isn’t a good use of your time. Let Handshake help!
Stand Out to Recruiters
1. Build a Strong Profile
-Add recent work or volunteer experience.
-Include your skills and organizations. Employers search for students based on what they list on their profile – make sure to be thorough!
-Make your profile public so that employers are able to proactively find you!
2. Keep Your Career Interests Up to Date
-In the “For Employers Only” section, add career and location interests to help recruiters find you more easily.
-Tell Handshake your preferences and they’ll send you relevant job, internship, and event recommendations.
-Like it if you find it helpful to make it easier for other students to find or Message the reviewer for more information!
3. Show Employers You’re Interested
-Keep track of which employers have viewed your profile and favorite employers to let them know you’re interested.
-Apply to jobs! It might sound obvious, but the first step to landing an opportunity is applying.
For more information on navigating the Handshake platform, visit the Student/Alumni Help Center or these specific links below.
