Navigating the job search process can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just starting out in your career journey. Luckily, UMass Lowell provides an incredible resource to help you connect with employers, find job opportunities, and explore career paths: Handshake. Whether you’re looking for an internship, co-op, or full-time job after graduation, Handshake is your go-to platform for all things career-related.

What is Handshake?

Handshake is a platform used by over 1,400 universities and 650,000 employers, making it the largest early talent recruiting platform in the country. It’s designed to connect students with a wide range of job opportunities, from internships and part-time roles to full-time positions after graduation. With Handshake, you can easily search for jobs, discover employers, register for career fairs, and apply for positions directly through the platform.

One of the key features of Handshake is that it personalizes job recommendations based on your profile, helping you find opportunities that align with your skills, interests, and career goals. Additionally, it’s a powerful networking tool that allows you to connect with employers, peers, and alumni who can offer advice and insights into your chosen field.

Why Use Handshake?

• Access to Thousands of Opportunities: Handshake partners with employers across various industries, giving you access to thousands of job listings, many of which are exclusive to the platform.
• Personalized Job Recommendations: Handshake’s algorithm suggests jobs based on your profile, ensuring you see opportunities that match your qualifications and career aspirations.
• Connect with Employers: You can follow employers you’re interested in, receive updates about their job postings, and even send them messages directly through the platform.
• Career Events and Workshops: Handshake is also your gateway to career fairs, workshops, and employer info sessions happening on campus and online.

How to Set Up Your Handshake Account: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get started with Handshake? Follow these simple steps to set up your account and begin exploring the platform.

1. Visit the Handshake Platform

• Go to the UMass Lowell Handshake portal: https://uml.joinhandshake.com/.

2. Log in with Your UMass Lowell Credentials

• Click on the “UMass Lowell Student Login” button.
• Use your university email and password to log in. If this is your first time logging in, you can create your account through Handshake.

3. Complete Your Profile

• Once logged in, you’ll be prompted to complete your profile. This step is crucial as it allows Handshake to tailor job recommendations to your background and interests.
• Fill out information such as your major, graduation date, and career interests.
• Upload your resume to make it easier to apply for jobs. Employers often search profiles, so having an updated resume on your Handshake profile can increase your visibility.

4. Set Your Preferences

• Handshake will ask you about the types of jobs you’re interested in (e.g., full-time, part-time, internships).
• Specify the industries and locations you’re targeting. This helps Handshake suggest the most relevant job listings for you.

5. Explore Job Listings

• Use the search bar to explore job opportunities. You can filter results by location, industry, job type, and more.
• Save jobs that interest you, so you can easily return to them later.

6. Follow Employers

• Search for and follow employers you’re interested in. This allows you to receive notifications when they post new jobs or attend campus events.

7. Apply for Jobs

• When you find a job you’re interested in, click “Apply” to submit your application directly through Handshake. You can also track the status of your applications within the platform.

8. Attend Career Events

• Check out the “Events” tab to find upcoming career fairs, workshops, and employer info sessions. You can register for these events through Handshake and add them to your calendar.

How Handshake Helps You Explore Jobs and Employers

Once your profile is set up, you’ll be able to use Handshake to its fullest potential. Here’s how the platform can help you throughout your career journey:

• Discover Opportunities: Handshake’s job search function is robust, allowing you to filter results based on your preferences. You can explore jobs that match your qualifications, discover roles you might not have considered, and find positions that align with your career goals.
• Connect with Employers: Handshake makes it easy to connect with employers by allowing you to follow companies, attend their events, and even message recruiters directly. This can help you stand out as a candidate and gain valuable insights into companies before applying.
• Build Your Network: Handshake isn’t just for job searching; it’s also a networking tool. You can connect with peers, alumni, and industry professionals who can offer advice, mentorship, and potentially open doors to job opportunities.
• Stay Informed: By following employers and registering for events, you’ll stay informed about the latest opportunities and trends in your field. Handshake’s personalized notifications ensure you never miss out on important job postings or events.

Conclusion

Handshake is an essential tool for any UMass Lowell student looking to jumpstart their career. By setting up your account and engaging with the platform, you’ll gain access to a wealth of opportunities, connections, and resources that will help you achieve your career goals. Don’t wait—log in to Handshake today and start exploring all that it has to offer. Your future career is just a few clicks away!

Reference

OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (August 2024 version) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/