Set up a Handshake account and get started here.

Getting Started with Handshake

Here are ten steps to help you kick off your career hunt painlessly and effectively using Handshake:

1. Activate your Handshake profile. Sign up for Handshake with your student email and complete the activation steps.
2. Upload your resume. Did you know that you can upload your resume and your Handshake profile will auto-pull tons of information? Save yourself the effort of writing information multiple times; upload your resume before adding anything else to your profile! Then you’ll only have to fill in any blanks. 
3. Fill out your job preferences. That means selecting desired locations where you’d like to work, preferred job roles, and your ideal job type: part-time, full-time, internship, or on-campus. 
4. Add experience to your profile. Add any volunteering, internships, or work that you’ve already completed to your profile. This allows prospective employers to see your previous (or current) responsibilities. 
5. Follow five interesting employers. Explore different organizations and companies on Handshakeand follow them for updates. Often, recruiters check who is following them — it can help you get on their radar and ensure you get first alerts for new opportunities!
6. Fill out past courses and special skills. Pull up your academic record and fill out specific courses, skills, and talents that could be relevant to your future career. This will help give prospective employers a better idea of the special stuff you have to offer their organization!
7. Add a headshot. This isn’t a must for landing a job, but a photo can help put a face to your name — this is particularly useful if you’ve made a connection with a recruiter on campus at a career fair or event. 
8. Message three peers with professional experience you admire. Use Handshake to build connections by messaging peers. Reach out to alumni from your school, people who have previously held internships you’re interested in, and more.
9. Ask one question about a company, job role, or specific opportunity. There are so many knowledgeable folks on Handshake — hit them with some of your questions about specific career paths, organizations, or opportunities! 
10. Apply to five jobs that interest you. Now that you’re a Handshake super-user, make sure to apply for jobs and internships! 

There you have it: you’re a Handshake pro. We can’t wait to help you find your next job, internship, or professional opportunity!

Need more help?

• How to stand out to recruiters
• Profile completion – deck tutorial
• Quick video tutorials
• What employers are searching for

If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at Career.Services@ChattahoocheeTech.edu.