HANDSHAKE Tips: The Job/Internship Search & Engaging with Employers

Using Handshake for Your Job/Internship Search

To find new opportunities that match your interests:

• Click “Job” > “All filters” > utilize any filters/keywords/location > “Show results” > view open positions > “Save your search”
  • Enter a keyword, search by location, major, industry, and more! You can customize and save your search criteria to receive job alert notifications when new jobs matching your search criteria are added. You can also bookmark positions to return to at a later date. Keep in mind that opportunities are posted throughout the year from various employers, so continue to check back for new listings.
• Filters to find relevant opportunities include location, accepts OPT/CPT, year in school, paid/unpaid and specific industry and job functions (use the provided drop-down menus).
• Graduate students can additionally select year in school (masters, PhD)
• By saving your search, you will receive email updates when new, relevant opportunities related to your search criteria become available.
  • Handshake’s job recommendations get smarter the more you use the platform, taking into account your profile data, career interests, and the employers and jobs you have engaged with. The content you engage with on Handshake provides real time insight into your evolving preferences. So make sure to spend some time viewing and favoriting jobs and employers that sound interesting to you – it will help Handshake learn to best curate recommendations just for you.
• Additional resources:
  • Learn how to navigate the Handshake database to find jobs and internships. 
  • Find a job you want to apply for? Learn how to submit an application here.
  • VIDEO: Search for, Save, and Apply to Jobs in Handshake

Engaging with Employers on Handshake

• By selecting to “follow” an employer you will be notified of any job/internship postings or events they add: Click “Jobs” > “Employers” > “Follow” By doing this you will be notified any time an employer adds a posting, event, or makes a change.
• The “Employer” section of Handshake also allows the option to filter based on areas such as location, company size, industry, etc. This can be a great way to learn about new, relevant employers you may not be familiar with.
• Top employers are hiring students like you on Handshake. They’ll be able to find you and message you about the roles you want. Make sure your profile is public so you can send and receive messages. Under your profile icon, click Settings & Privacy then select Community.
• Additional Resources:
  • Messaging Employers on Handshake Leads to Jobs
  • Virtual Chats with Employers
  • How to Build Relationships with Employers on Handshake

Employment Disclaimer for Students
The University of Pittsburgh is not responsible for our students working off campus and has not screened them for their experience, integrity, working ability, or any other aspect of their performance as volunteers, interns or employees. It is the responsibility of both students and alums to take precautions when submitting personal information, interviewing, and accepting any type of position. Applicants should never provide their birth dates, Social Security numbers, credit card numbers, bank account information or other private information when communicating with prospective employers or responding to opportunities online.

If you see a position in Handshake and/or receive an email from an employer that you believe may be a scam, please notify the Career Center immediately by emailing us at careers@pitt.edu.