Are you looking to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations that support positive social change? Are you seeking advice from others who have had similar career paths or experiences? The Department of Career Planning and Development has curated a list of Special Interest Resources (located on the Career Exploration tab) for diverse communities, professionals 50+, veterans, and people with disabilities that can help build networking connections, identify diversity-friendly organizations that are hiring, and offer career support to forward-thinking leaders who strive to make a difference.
You may ask, “What types of communities and job search sites are available and what do they have to offer?” To help you get started, we highlight a few key sites and share ways that these online communities can help support, guide, and even empower you as a professional, leader, and change maker.
Networking and Professional Development:
Diversity Best Practices is a site that provides lists of organizations and online communities for African American, Asian, Latino, Native American, LGBTQ, and other professionals. Professional organizations often include job boards, opportunities to volunteer, networking events to connect with other members, conferences, and professional development programs on relevant and timely topics.
How to Get Started: Search for groups to join based on your career field or interest area and become actively involved by taking on leadership roles, submitting an article, delivering a presentation, or finding or serving as a mentor.
Job and Company Searches:
If you are looking for your next career opportunity, the Professional Diversity Network provides lists of diversity-friendly employers, virtual career fairs, and the following career networks for finding jobs and connecting with employers: Military2Career, Women’s Career Channel, IHispano, Black Career Network, Asian Career Network, Out Professional Network, and Pro Able.
How to Get Started: Research diversity-friendly employers to learn about their mission, vision, culture, employees, and job opportunities. Take your career research to the next level by following companies and connecting with their employees on LinkedIn.com.
Intergenerational Connections:
If you are 50+ and looking forward to starting your next career chapter, AARP offers a wide range of job opportunities on its job board. Employers who have pledged to hire 50+ and promote a diverse, intergenerational workforce are highlighted on this site. AARP also offers helpful tips for career transitions and networking opportunities.
How to Get Started: Read articles and advice on navigating the intergenerational workforce. Search for full-time and flexible job opportunities using their job board.
Need additional ideas on connecting with diverse communities? We invite you to visit the Career Exploration-Special Interest Resources section where you will find the sites mentioned above and so much more! If you are interested in professional associations by career field, you may also want to explore the Networking – Associations and Professional Development area to find a professional association aligned with your degree program or specialty area. Finally, we invite you to use the niche job boards on the Job Search Sites by Subject page to further expand your job search. Tapping into the wide array of career and professional development resources available to you can help you locate professional communities, expand your network, and advance your career.
Written by Dina Bergren, Associate Director of Career Services