The Ultimate Job Search Checklist for 2025

The Ultimate Job Search Checklist for 2025

Navigating the job search after college can feel like stepping into a whole new arena. As a student-athlete, you've already mastered perseverance, adaptability, and time management — skills that hiring managers value. But knowing where to start can be tricky. That’s where this job search checklist comes in. It’s designed to help you break down the process into clear, actionable steps, keeping you organized and confident as you work toward your next big win.

Identify Your Ideal Roles and Employers

Before you start applying, define the roles and industries that excite you. Having clarity here will guide every step of your job search.

How to Pinpoint Your Ideal Role

• List Your Skills and Passions: Reflect on what you’re naturally good at and what interests you.
• Research Industries and Job Titles: Look at career paths where your skills can be applied.
• Use Job Trackers: Keep a list of roles you’re interested in and track your progress.

Pro Tip: Leverage your experiences as a student-athlete. Skills like leadership, resilience, and adaptability are highly transferable to roles in business, marketing, and operations!

How to Optimize Your Resume

Your resume is your first impression with recruiters and hiring managers. We know the job market can be really competitive, so your resume should capture the attention of recruiters or hiring managers within 30 seconds. 

1. Use Action-Packed Bullet Points: Describe your experiences using action verbs to highlight your impact. Instead of "Helped team with event planning," write, "Organized and led team fundraising event that raised $5,000 for community outreach programs."
2. Include Key Transferrable Skills: Highlight the skills you’ve developed as a student-athlete that transfer to the workplace. For example, if you want to highlight your leadership experience, you could say something along the lines of: "Team Captain for 2 years, leading 20+ teammates through practice schedules and fostering team cohesion." Want to focus on balancing academics with athletics? Use Adaptability as a key skill. Here is a great way to talk about adaptability as a transferable skill to the workplace: "Balanced 20-hour weekly training schedule while maintaining a 3.8 GPA."
3. Resume Design Matters: Depending on what industry you’re trying to enter, it’s important to match your resume to that industry. If you’re a graphic designer, it’s acceptable within the industry to be a bit more creative with your resume. But, let’s say for example, you’re applying to a Fortune 500 company to be on their sales or finance teams, you’ll want to make sure you follow an ATS format. 
4. Use Keywords from Job Descriptions: Match your resume to job descriptions by incorporating industry-specific terms. We recommend using tools like Teal AI to help match job descriptions with your tailored resume. When you tailor your resume, there’s a higher chance of your resume being pushed through an ATS-system.

Build a Strong LinkedIn Profile

Recruiters spend a lot of time searching for candidates on LinkedIn before reaching out. This also goes for hiring managers researching candidates before an interview. Using LinkedIn is a great way to build your personal brand and express what types of roles you’re interested in.

Key Steps to Optimize Your LinkedIn

• Upload a Professional Photo: Use a clear, high-quality image with a clean background.
• Create a Strong Headline: Highlight your student-athlete experience and career interests (e.g., "Former NCAA Athlete | Marketing & Sales Enthusiast").
• Write a Compelling ‘About’ Section: Share your story, goals, and what makes you unique.
• List Experience and Skills: Highlight your athletic experience and other work experience, like internships or volunteer roles.
• Request Endorsements: Ask former teammates, coaches, or professors to endorse your skills.

Discover everything you need to know about optimizing your LinkedIn profile in our Learn how to create a standout presence on LinkedIn with our step-by-step guide on building a LinkedIn profile and expert tips on optimizing your LinkedIn profile.

Leverage Your Network

Your network is one of the most valuable tools in your job search. As a student-athlete, you have access to alumni, coaches, and teammates who can open doors for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out to a recent graduate from your alma mater who is at a company you could be interested in. They could open the door to new opportunities, or introduce you to someone else within their network.

How to Build and Use Your Network

• Tap Into Your Alumni Network: Reach out to former student-athletes in your desired industry. Search companies on LinkedIn, go to the “People” tab, and it will show any connections you may have from your Alma Matter. You can use your LinkedIn messaging credits to reach out to a potential contact if you are not already connected with them.
• Attend Networking Events
  Expanding your professional network is essential for career growth and job opportunities. One of the fastest and most effective ways to grow your network is by attending virtual and in-person career fairs. These events offer a chance to meet recruiters, hiring managers, and industry professionals face-to-face or in a digital setting. Be prepared with a quick personal introduction, have your resume ready, and follow up with the connections you make. Look for industry-specific events, university-hosted fairs, or large conferences with networking components. Every new connection is a potential opportunity to advance your career.
• Use LinkedIn to Connect
  LinkedIn is a powerful platform for building professional relationships. Don't just hit "connect" — make it personal. When reaching out to industry professionals, always include a personalized message explaining why you'd like to connect. Mention shared interests, mutual connections, or specific questions you have about their role, company, or industry. Consistently engaging with posts, sharing thoughtful comments, and joining LinkedIn Groups can also help you grow your network organically. Your connections may one day become collaborators, mentors, or even the key to your next job.

👉 Need help mastering LinkedIn networking? Check out our guide on how to network on LinkedIn for expert tips and strategies.

• Ask for Informational Interviews
  Want to learn more about a company, role, or industry? Ask for an informational interview. These one-on-one conversations give you the chance to ask thoughtful questions, gain insight into a company's culture, and better understand the day-to-day responsibilities of a particular role. Reach out to employees at your target companies or alumni from your school. Keep your request short and respectful of their time. Informational interviews not only provide valuable knowledge but can also leave a lasting impression that might turn into a future job opportunity.

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Master the Interview Process

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can stand out as a top candidate. As a student-athlete, you already have a competitive edge — you’re used to performing under pressure, staying disciplined, and bouncing back from challenges. Use these experiences to your advantage. By highlighting your unique qualities as a student-athlete, you can make a lasting impression on interviewers. Here’s how to excel in any interview setting.

Prepare for These Interview Types

Each interview format requires a unique approach. Here's how to prepare for the most common types of interviews:

Phone Interviews

• What to Expect: Phone interviews are often used as a first-round screening to gauge your communication skills and overall fit.
• How to Succeed: Focus on clear, concise communication. Since body language isn't visible, tone and clarity are critical. Find a quiet, distraction-free environment, speak slowly, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification if needed. Prepare notes or key points ahead of time, but avoid sounding like you're reading from a script.

Video Interviews

• What to Expect: Video interviews are becoming the norm, especially for remote hiring processes. Interviewers can see you, so your appearance, eye contact, and background matter.
• How to Succeed: Practice looking directly into the camera (not at the screen) to create the illusion of eye contact. Ensure your background is clean, simple, and distraction-free. Test your technology (camera, microphone, and internet connection) beforehand, and have a backup plan in case of technical issues. Dress as you would for an in-person interview and keep your posture upright to project confidence.

In-Person Interviews

• What to Expect: These traditional interviews allow interviewers to assess your interpersonal skills and presence in a professional setting.
• How to Succeed: Dress professionally and arrive at least 10-15 minutes early. Bring multiple copies of your resume, a notepad, and a pen. Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and actively listen. Ask thoughtful questions to show your interest in the company and the role.

Use the STAR Method for Behavioral Questions

Behavioral interview questions are designed to see how you’ve handled real-life situations. The STAR Method is a simple framework to structure your answers and keep them clear, focused, and impactful. Here's how to use it:

• Situation: Set the scene. Describe the context or background of the situation you faced.
• Task: Define your role. Explain what you were responsible for and what the goal was.
• Action: Share the steps you took. Highlight the skills, actions, or strategies you used to address the challenge.
• Result: Highlight the outcome. Showcase the tangible result of your actions. Whenever possible, use numbers, metrics, or specific results to make your impact clear.

Example of a STAR Response:
Question: "Can you share an example of a time you overcame adversity?"
Answer:

• Situation: "During my senior year as a team captain, our leading scorer got injured right before the championship game."
• Task: "As captain, I had to find a way to boost team morale and ensure our performance didn’t drop."
• Action: "I organized a team meeting, encouraged everyone to take on new roles, and set smaller goals for each quarter of the game."
• Result: "We ended up winning the championship game, and I was recognized for leadership in the post-game awards ceremony."

By following the STAR method, you’ll give your interviewer a clear, results-driven answer that demonstrates your problem-solving skills and leadership.

Pro Tips for a Successful Interview Process

1. Leverage Your Student-Athlete Experience
   Employers value the intangible qualities that student-athletes bring to the table: discipline, grit, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure. Prepare for questions like:
   • “How has being a student-athlete prepared you for this role?”
   • “Can you share an example of a time you overcame adversity?”
2. Highlight experiences that demonstrate your perseverance, leadership, and ability to thrive in high-pressure situations. You can also share how balancing academics and athletics taught you time management and goal-setting.
3. Research the Company and Role
   Tailor your answers to the specific company and role you’re applying for. Show that you understand their mission, values, and goals. Mention specific projects or initiatives they’ve worked on, and connect them to your own experiences. This signals that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
   Practice answering common interview questions with a friend, coach, or mentor. Use mock interviews to improve your timing, confidence, and ability to frame your responses using the STAR method. This repetition helps reduce interview anxiety and makes you feel more prepared on the big day.
5. Follow Up with a Thank-You Note
   After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to your interviewer. Reference specific parts of the interview and reiterate your excitement for the role. It shows gratitude and professionalism, which could set you apart from other candidates.

With these tips, you’ll be able to approach any interview with preparation, confidence, and the competitive edge that comes with being a student-athlete.

Apply for Jobs Intentionally

Applying for jobs intentionally requires strategy, preparation, and most of all, organization.

Target Roles That Align With Your Goals

Rather than applying to every job that looks interesting, be strategic about the roles you pursue. Think about your long-term goals, the type of work you want to do, and the environment where you’ll thrive. Focus on roles that align with your strengths as a student-athlete — like leadership, time management, and adaptability — which are qualities many employers value. The more specific your focus, the more compelling your application will be. INTENT gives you access to roles that naturally align with these strengths, making it easier to target positions where you’ll thrive.

Customize Your Resume for Each Job

A tailored resume shows employers that you understand what they’re looking for. Instead of submitting a generic resume, customize it for each role by highlighting skills and experiences that match the job description. Use language from the posting itself to help your resume stand out in applicant tracking systems (ATS). Employers want to see evidence of your impact, so focus on measurable achievements from your academic, athletic, or work experience. INTENT helps you position your unique experience as a student-athlete in a way that resonates with employers, making it easier to showcase your leadership, perseverance, and ability to succeed under pressure.

Search INTENT often, and Apply Early

Many roles fill on a rolling basis, so applying early can give you a competitive edge. Employers often review applications as they come in, and being one of the first candidates can boost your chances of getting noticed. Don’t wait until the last day to submit — early action shows initiative and enthusiasm for the role.

With INTENT, you’ll have early access to roles as soon as they’re available, giving you the chance to be among the first applicants. Plus, employers can search for candidates directly, so being proactive means you’re ready to be discovered.

Use INTENT’s Job Application Tracker

It’s easy to lose track of which jobs you’ve applied for, upcoming deadlines, and when it’s time to follow up. A job application tracker helps you stay organized by keeping tabs on the status of each role. Track which jobs you’ve applied for, interview dates, and follow-up tasks. Staying on top of deadlines ensures you never miss a chance to impress potential employers.

INTENT makes it easy to track your job search progress. You can see the status of applications, manage deadlines, and know exactly where you stand with each opportunity — all in one place.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Use Storytelling to your Advantage

A strong cover letter can set you apart from other applicants by giving employers a glimpse into who you are beyond your resume. It’s your opportunity to showcase your passion, highlight your relevant skills, and tell the story that makes you the best fit for the role. By taking the time to craft a thoughtful, tailored cover letter, you demonstrate initiative and a clear understanding of what the company needs.

How to Write a Standout Cover Letter

Personalize Your Cover Letter to the Hiring Manager

Generic greetings like "To Whom It May Concern" won’t cut it. Take the time to research and address your letter to a specific person, such as the hiring manager or department lead. If you can’t find a name, do your best to choose someone in the department or use a personalized greeting like “Dear [Department] Hiring Team.” This small step shows attention to detail and a genuine interest in the company. Hot tip: The INTENT platform gives you insight into the hiring team for some roles, making it easier to personalize your cover letter and establish a stronger connection.

Share Why You’re Excited About the Role

This is your chance to showcase genuine enthusiasm for the role and the company. Don’t just say, “I’m excited about this role.” Be specific. Mention a particular project, initiative, or value that aligns with your personal goals or experiences. Hiring managers want to know why you want to work for their company, not just that you want a job. For example, “As a student-athlete, I know the power of perseverance, and I’m especially drawn to your company’s emphasis on teamwork and innovation."

Keep It Short and Specific

A cover letter should be concise — no more than one page. Highlight 2-3 key experiences or skills that directly relate to the role. If you have measurable results (like increased team performance or academic achievements), add them in. The goal is to make your point quickly and leave the reader wanting to learn more about you in an interview. Employers on INTENT often look for candidates who can communicate clearly and concisely, which is why a well-crafted cover letter can set you apart.

Avoid Generic Phrases

Avoid overused phrases like "I’m the perfect candidate" or "I’m a hard worker." Instead, prove it with examples. Instead of saying, “I’m a leader,” share a story about how you led your team to victory in a high-stakes situation. Instead of “I’m detail-oriented,” talk about how you created a system to manage your academic, athletic, and social commitments. With INTENT, you can highlight these skills in your candidate PROfile, making it easy for employers to see the qualities that make you stand out.

Follow Up Post-Application: Stay on Their Radar

After submitting your application, don’t sit back and wait. Following up shows persistence, interest, and professionalism. When done right, a simple follow-up message can move your application to the top of the stack.

How to Follow Up Professionally

Send a Follow-Up Email

Wait about 5-10 business days after submitting your application before sending a check-in email. Your message should be polite and professional. Avoid demanding an update. Instead, express interest in the position and ask if the hiring team needs any additional information from you.

Example:
"Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
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I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to follow up on my application for the [Position Title] role and express my continued interest in joining [Company Name]. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute [mention specific skill/experience] to support your team. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me to move the process forward.
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Thank you for your time and consideration.
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Best [or preferred sign-off],
[Your Name]"

TIP: With INTENT, employers can message you directly, so there’s less need for cold follow-ups. If you do reach out, you can reference your INTENT profile as a quick way for hiring managers to see more about your skills and experience.

Keep It Brief

Hiring managers are busy. Keep your email short and respectful of their time. Reference the position you applied for, reiterate your interest, and ask if they need anything further. A clear, concise message shows that you understand professional communication etiquette.

Be Patient and Professional

If you don’t hear back after your first follow-up, don’t bombard them with more emails. Respect the employer’s time and know that delays can happen. If you still haven’t heard back after two weeks, it’s okay to send one final follow-up to reiterate your interest. But after that, it’s best to move forward with other applications.

And remember, employers using INTENT are actively seeking candidates and have tools to communicate directly with applicants. This makes it easier to stay in touch without having to chase down responses.

Stay Positive and Resilient: Persistence Pays Off

Job searching can be challenging, especially when rejection is part of the process. But remember — every “no” is one step closer to a “yes.” The key is to stay positive, build momentum, and keep learning from each experience. As a student-athlete, you’re already equipped with the mental toughness, grit, and resilience needed to overcome setbacks. These same qualities will serve you well in the job search.

How to Stay Resilient

Celebrate Small Wins
Every interview, email, and connection made is a step forward. Even if you don’t get the job, acknowledge your progress. Did you make it past the first round? Did you receive positive feedback? Recognize these milestones as part of your journey toward success.

Take Breaks
Burnout is real. Searching for jobs is stressful, and constantly checking for updates can drain your mental energy. Schedule time for self-care, and treat the process like a marathon, not a sprint. Taking breaks will help you stay focused and maintain a positive outlook.

Ask for Feedback
If you’re rejected for a role, don’t be afraid to politely ask for feedback. Employers may not always provide it, but when they do, it’s often insightful. Use this information to refine your approach, whether it’s improving your resume, enhancing your interview skills, or tailoring your cover letter.

Leverage Your Student-Athlete Experience
Being a student-athlete teaches you mental toughness, adaptability, and discipline — all qualities employers value. When the job search feels overwhelming, remind yourself of the perseverance you’ve already shown on the field, in the classroom, and in life. Apply that same grit to your job hunt, and you’ll eventually see results.

How INTENT Helps Student-Athletes Find Purpose-Driven Jobs

This checklist offers a clear, step-by-step path for student-athletes to transition from sports to successful careers. Each step builds on the one before, so trust the process, stay resilient, and keep moving forward. From crafting a standout cover letter to following up with hiring managers and maintaining a positive mindset, every action you take brings you closer to landing your next opportunity.

With INTENT, you don’t have to navigate the job search alone. As part of the largest network of student-athletes, you’ll have access to exclusive job opportunities, personalized resources, and a supportive community focused on your success.

Ready to take your next step? Join INTENT today and discover roles that fit your strengths, career goals, and aspirations.