Required Tasks for Outcomes Support

Hello!

We’ve created this pre-work because we know how eager you are to translate the skills you will learn at GA into an exciting career. We also want to be as proactive as possible to help you understand the industry, the job market, and yourself. We want you to be job search-ready by the time you graduate. We ask that you approach this journey with an open and growth mindset and allow for a new way of tackling the proverbial job search. 

Please read the below in its entirety before getting started. You may do the tasks out of order if you choose, but ultimately you will be entering links to all your deliverables into this Google form.

First things first

• Create a Google account. Before starting this pre-work, please create a Google account with a professional address (e.g. firstname.lastname@gmail.com). If you already have one, you’re all set!
• We're asking you to do this since you will need access to a Google account to use the Google form.

Upload your resume

1. Upload the most recent copy of your resume or CV via the Google form. Titles should include: Name, Position, Contact Details, Personal Summary, Experience, Education and Interests.
2. Follow this naming convention: First NameLastName_Resume_Course (i.e. JohnDoe_Resume_WDI)
3. If you do not have a resume or CV, make a copy of this worksheet, complete it, and then submit this via the Google form.

Get to know the industry landscape

1. Sign up to at least three industry newsletters, publications, or blogs. Here is a recommended list you can consult. Paste the links in the Google form.
2. Identify 3 sectors you’d consider working in, e.g. fashion, travel or finance. For each sector, identify three companies of any type or size in this space. Paste links to their websites in the Google form.
3. Find 10 job descriptions that you believe you would be a good fit for at the end of your course. Paste the job title and links to these descriptions in the Google form. (Since many job postings expire, we recommend pasting the content into a separate document you can refer to in the future.)
4. Locate the online portfolios of at least 5 practitioners you admire in your field of study. They can be GA alumni too! Paste links in the Google form. 
5. Find 5 job board platforms related to your field of study and paste them in the Google form.
   - Do not add sites like Monster, Indeed, CV Library, CWjobs.
   - Do add sites like AngelList, Talent Rocket, Greenhouse, Hired Inc. or a company-specific job board. 

Develop your personal brand. Become a thought leader. Participate in the community.

1. Secure your portfolio domain:  These are affordably priced and can be as simple as just your name. For example www.johnappleseed.com. Use whatever registration and web hosting resource is right for you. Here are some articles and resources to help you with making a decision that’s right for you. Enter the domain name in the Google form.
2. Create a LinkedIn account if you don’t have one already. 
   • If you do, update your experience. Please enter the URL on the Google form.
   • Follow at least 15 companies you're interested in and add yourself to at least 10 course- relevant groups. 
   • Connect with your immersive instructors, outcomes team, and any classmates and GA alumni you may know already. 
3. Find 3 meetups to attend in your city that are happening prior to or during your course. Meetup.com is a great place to start. Try to attend at least one before the course. Paste links into the Google form.
4. Follow 3-5 thought leaders in your chosen discipline on Twitter, LinkedIn, Medium, or your preferred social platform. Whatever you choose, be prepared to be consistent.