The popular question among today’s new college graduates is, “What’s the best way for me to land a job after graduation?” Let’s face it; jobs are not as plentiful as they once were for someone with a new college degree. In fact, jobs are fewer and new college grads have multiplied. In a competitive job search, it’s important that you know what to do in order to secure a job and start paying off those college loans.
Network, network, network!
Networking is key in today’s job market. Before your graduation date is upon you, make sure that you have already started putting yourself out there in the business world. The more you are known by the right people, the better your chances of landing a job.
If you aren’t already on LinkedIn, get on there pronto! Complete your profile with your education, internships, training or specific courses, and any other awards or jobs that would help to show off your skills. Add a professional photo to complete the profile. It does not have to be taken by a professional photographer. Just make sure that it’s a tasteful photo. Hint: that photo of you downing a shot at last semester’s frat party is not a wise choice.
Once you have your profile completed, start connecting with business professionals. Seek out anyone you worked with during internships, training, as well as any of your professors who are on LinkedIn. If applicable, send recommendation requests to any former bosses, professors, or mentors.
Lastly, join business groups according to the field you want to go into and begin networking with others within that group. Stay active and comment on group discussions.
Local Groups and Events
Ask your professors or other professionals if they know of any local networking groups that they would recommend. Joining local groups is an excellent way to put yourself out there and make sure that professionals are noticing you.
You should also try joining meetup.com and searching for local business groups to join. An additional source for finding out about networking events is to check in with your local chamber of commerce.
Most important of all…
Keep an open mind. Remember that your first job may not be your dream job and that’s okay. That first job may not have the greatest pay or most exciting job responsibilities. However, it will give you the chance to get some solid work experience under your belt. It could also be an excellent way to get your foot in the door at an amazing company that offers a career track.
One last word of advice
If you are on any social media sites, make sure anything you post, share, or “like”, is something that can’t be held against you. It’s becoming a standard for many companies to check social media sites prior to hiring someone. No matter how “private” you believe your profile to be, there is always a chance that a potential employer is able to view your activity.
What are some ways you have networked in order to find a job out of college? Please share your suggestions below.
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