employment search information

for English and SPANISH majors

So you are graduating with a degree in English or Spanish . . . what now?  While the following list is by no means exhaustive, it should give you a start on the job search—especially if you are an English or Spanish major.

As you consider your move into the world of full-time employment, consider these common career areas for English majors:

  • Public Relations
  • Freelance Writing
  • Government or Law
  • Education or Teaching
  • Grant or Proposal Writing
  • Technical Writing/Communication
  • Publishing
  • Journalism or Media
  • Marketing or Advertising
  • Law Enforcement
  • Translation
  • Library Science

Suggested steps in an employment search:

  1. Prepare a generic resume.  As you locate specific jobs (see below), tweak or tailor your resume so that it fits the needs of each potential job.
  2. Make an appointment with the Coordinator of Counseling in UC 208A, 291-3765, coxm@wbu.edu (Michael Cox) , so that he can look over your resume and give you tips as to how to improve it.  The Writing Center (2nd floor of the LRC/Library) is also an excellent resource when creating resumes and cover letters.
  3. Start looking for jobs or employment opportunities in your field.  If you’d like to stay local, see these, and other related links:
  • Self Assessment
    • Vark What's your learning style?
  • Human Metrics Fun website for self-exploration.
  • Keirsey - Excellent Personality Profile site
  • iseek Assessment of career skills
  • Queendom It is good (only looks like a cosmo quiz)
  • Links to Other Career and Job Resources

  •  As suggested in number 1 above, tweak or tailor your resume (and cover letter, if required) so that it fits the needs of each individual job for which you apply.  Use the same language or vocabulary found in the advertisement to better link your skills and experience to those the employer desires.

  • Fulfill or complete the application procedure exactly as described.  If the employer asks for a complete application, resume, and a letter, provide all three, and ensure that all are error-free before submission.  (Again, the Writing Center can be helpful in this regard.)

  • If you are lucky enough to receive an interview (or even if you hand-deliver resume, etc.), dress professionally—no jeans, no t-shirts, no flip-flops.  Better to overdress—dress too professionally—than under-dress.  (Most of the people in a position to hire you are over 35, and they generally expect a certain level of professionalism.)

  • Before the interview, do a little background work on the company and the position.  Be sure you know exactly why you want the job, and what skills, experience, and education from your past suit you for the position.  Prepare at least one insightful question about the company or position to ask the interviewer.

  • Be your very best self in the interview.  Think positive thoughts!  Be polite and friendly!