10.3 Where to Go from Here
As you finish up your internship, you may have several different paths ahead of you. Some of you will still have coursework to complete your program. Some of you will be transferring to another college or university to continue your studies. Others may have just completed a terminal degree and plan to enter the workforce upon completion.
In this section, we will focus on those of you who are leaving your human services program and are heading directly into the workforce, either full-time or part-time. Even if you are going on to higher education, the following discussions can be helpful when you do eventually start seeking professional employment. You can begin using many of the strategies, such as networking, creating a professional résumé, and interviewing skills, even while you are still in school. It can be beneficial to be prepared in advance—you might be making a contact now that could lead to an internship or job opportunity down the line.
Job Seeking and Networking
The process of finding a job and getting hired has changed drastically over the last 20 years or so. Most processes have gone online, and there is a proliferation of job listings and job-matching websites. Many people consider your online profile to be a key determinant of career success. However, networking continues to be a very important asset when it comes to connecting with potential employers.
The first place to start with job searching is your college or university’s career center. They often have resources for students, including résumé writing and interview skills. They often compile lists of current job opportunities that are sent to the college by employers seeking graduates. Avail yourself of these services if you can, and attend any career fairs that include human service settings. Alumni offices can also be a good source of information and possible contacts at local agencies.
The internet can also provide a wealth of resources for job seekers. There are job-posting sites such as Monster, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter that list thousands of jobs. Government agencies often have extensive job listings on their own sites. Some professional organizations also post an online job board to connect professionals to job opportunities. For example, in Oregon, the Mental Health and Addictions Credentialing Board posts a searchable list of jobs in mental health and substance use treatment. The Oregon Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers also lists jobs, including positions for qualified candidates with associate’s or bachelor’s degrees. This wealth of postings can be overwhelming, and it can make it difficult to identify the right match for you.
In addition to these sources, by far one of the most powerful tools for job-seekers is their own professional networking. When it comes to employment opportunities, there is an old and worn-out saying: “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” While this approach does have issues when it comes t