Handshake

Handshake allows you to explore and find amazing job and internship opportunities. The platform changes to your customized needs, pushing out information that is relevant and timely based on your career interests, experiences, and major. Handshake is also where you will apply for jobs, see relevant career articles, sign up for events and workshops, and access the on-campus recruiting program.

How to Access Handshake

  • First step

    Select the “Handshake” application.

  • Second step

    Select “ Attend an Event" and look for the   NMSU career fair event or employer session that interests you.

  • Third step

    Select "Join Event."

  • Fourth step

    View available employer sessions. Check back often for updates.

  • Fifth step

    Make sure your profile is current. Upload your resume to your profile. Make sure your profile is visible to employers.

Virtual Best Practices

Here are some best practices and tips for Handshake to help you navigate the new world of virtual/online engagement with employers.
  • 1

    Update Your Profile

    • The vast majority of engagement with employers occurs online already, so it’s smart to follow employers you are interested in to stay updated on any job or event activity
    • Complete your profile to increase the chances of being found. 80% of students who fill out the following three areas of their profile receive a message from an employer :
      Location preferences
      Job role preferences
      Job type preferences
    Check out this blog post from Handshake to make the most of your account!
  • 2

    Participate in Virtual Events!

    Employers are shifting towards virtual events as they seek to build connections with students.
    • Search for available virtual events on Handshake. You can also view Virtual Event details.
    • Register to participate in events: This will allow you to track your personal recruiting efforts and ensure that you receive a reminder notification
    • Check your notification settings on your profile. This will ensure you are notified when a new event is posted so you can quickly view event details.
    • Handshake is rapidly adding live-links in Virtual Events so you can click a link to be taken to the video conferencing platform chosen by the employer, rather than having to copy/paste the URL in a browser window.
  • 3

    Schedule Virtual Interviews

    Companies are moving to increased virtual interviews utilizing various software platforms such as Skype, Zoom, and many others.  Please also remember to research companies to ensure that you are connecting with a legitimate employer/company.
  • 4

    Awareness

    • Avoid Fraudulent Job Postings
      Visit the company website. If the company in question doesn’t have a website or the website does not seem to match the advertised job, there may be cause for concern.
    • Use Google
      Search LinkedIn by “People” and the advanced search fields for “Company Name.” Click the “Current Companies Only” checkbox to receive information on people currently listed as employed by this company.
    • Poor Communication Skills
      Be careful when an employer cannot communicate accurately or effectively on the website, by email, over the telephone, etc.
    • Exercise Caution When Asked to Pay Any Fees
      Most legitimate employers will not charge to hire you!