In today’s competitive job market, having the right tools and resources can make all the difference in launching a successful career. For university students, one such invaluable resource is Handshake. Handshake is a powerful career platform that connects students and recent graduates with employers and job opportunities tailored to their specific needs and aspirations. Whether you’re looking for internships, part-time jobs, or your first full-time position, having a Handshake account is crucial.

Why is Handshake Important?

1. Access to Exclusive Opportunities: Many employers use Handshake to recruit students directly from their university. These employers often prefer candidates who are connected through Handshake, giving you access to job postings that may not be available on other platforms.
2. Tailored Job Recommendations: Handshake uses your profile information, such as your major, interests, and skills, to recommend job opportunities that align with your career goals. This means you’ll spend less time searching and more time applying for positions that truly match your qualifications.
3. Networking with Employers: Handshake allows you to connect directly with employers, attend virtual career fairs, and participate in events hosted by your university’s career center. These connections can be invaluable in landing interviews and job offers.
4. Student and Alumni Reviews: Handshake features reviews and tips from other students and alumni who have worked for the companies you’re interested in. This insider information can help you prepare better for interviews and make informed decisions about your career path.
5. Career Resources: Beyond job postings, Handshake offers a wealth of resources such as career advice articles, resume-building tips, and interview preparation guides, all designed to help you succeed in your job search.

Steps to Create a Handshake Account

Creating a Handshake account is a simple process that can be completed in just a few minutes. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Visit the Handshake Website: Go to your university’s career services website and look for the Handshake link. Alternatively, you can visit www.joinhandshake.com directly.
2. Click on “Sign Up”: On the Handshake homepage, click the “Sign Up” button to begin the registration process.
3. Select Your School: Type in the name of your university to find it in the list of participating schools. Once selected, you’ll be redirected to your school’s login page.
4. Log in with Your University Credentials: Use your university-provided email address and password to log in. If your school uses single sign-on (SSO), you may be redirected to a university-specific login portal.
5. Agree to the Terms of Service: Read through Handshake’s terms of service and privacy policy, then click “Agree” to proceed.
6. Complete Your Account Setup: Handshake will ask you a few questions to personalize your account. Answer these questions accurately to receive the most relevant job recommendations.

Steps to Complete Your Handshake Profile

A complete and well-crafted profile is key to standing out to employers on Handshake. Here’s how to make your profile shine:

1. Upload a Professional Photo: Your profile photo is the first impression employers will have of you. Choose a high-quality, professional-looking headshot where you’re dressed appropriately for your field.
2. Write a Strong Bio: Your bio should be a brief summary of your career goals, skills, and what you’re looking for in a job or internship. Keep it concise but impactful.
3. Add Your Education: Under the education section, ensure that your current university, major, and expected graduation date are correctly listed. If you have completed any minors or certifications, be sure to include them as well.
4. Highlight Your Work Experience: List any relevant work experience, internships, or volunteer positions. For each entry, include your job title, the company name, and a brief description of your responsibilities and achievements.
5. List Your Skills: In the skills section, add any technical or soft skills that are relevant to your field of study. This could include anything from proficiency in specific software to communication or leadership abilities.
6. Include Extracurricular Activities: Employers like to see well-rounded candidates. Include any clubs, organizations, or extracurricular activities you’re involved in, particularly if you hold a leadership position.
7. Upload Your Resume: Handshake allows you to upload your resume, making it easy for employers to download and review your qualifications. Ensure that your resume is up to date and tailored to the types of positions you’re seeking.
8. Request References: If you’ve worked closely with professors, supervisors, or mentors, consider asking them to serve as references. You can list their contact information on your profile for potential employers to reach out to.
9. Make Your Profile Public: Finally, make sure your profile is set to public. This allows employers to find and reach out to you directly with job opportunities.

Having a Handshake account is a vital step in your career journey as a university student. By following the steps outlined above to create your account and complete your profile, you’ll be well on your way to accessing exclusive job opportunities, connecting with employers, and ultimately landing your dream job. Don’t wait—start building your professional future today with Handshake!