Top 5 Job Search Tips for New Grads
By EmployDiversity
After grinding through years of university or college and endless hours of homework, it’s time for all that hard work to pay off! Your first job after graduation is your ticket to professional success and paying off those student loans. When you’re graduating along with thousands of other students, getting a job can be tough. Don’t be discouraged though – we have some key tips to get you started and keep you motivated!
1. Use your network
You probably met a lot of people during your education and they’re now a part of your professional network. Connections you made in school, through internships, or at campus career events are a great resource. These are people who you can tap into to help you find a job. If your network needs nurturing, start by attending industry events related to your career path. This is a great way to form relationships with people who share your career interests – and they may even be hiring!
2. Ask for information interviews
When you’re reaching out to your network, don’t ask for a job. You’re more likely to get a warm reception if you invite them for a coffee to ask for their career advice. This is a great opportunity to ask them about themselves, their company, their role, and their career. By demonstrating an interest in them you’ll start to develop a relationship with someone who can support your career. It’s also a great way to lay the groundwork to ask for a job in the future.
3. Understand that finding a job IS your full-time job
You should treat your job search as if it’s a regular full-time job. Establish objectives and goals for yourself each day and have a routine. A normal job would have you waking up at 5 or 6 in the morning and your job search should be no different. It’s important to commit to working a full day: fine-tune your resume, write customized cover letters, and get out and network.
4. Follow up
Don’t just send out resumes and wait for a call. When you’re applying for a job, always call to follow-up. Getting in touch with the recruiter or hiring manager will help you stand out and get your resume noticed. Sometimes your follow-up call may result in a swift rejection. Don’t be discouraged. Take it as an opportunity to learn how you can strengthen your application next time.
5. Stay motivated
When you start your search it’s important to acknowledge that it can take months to find a job. Rejection is never easy and it’s natural to become a bit discouraged. Throughout the process it’s important to stay focused and maintain a positive state of mind. If you’re feeling dejected and desperate, that will show through in your interview. You want your future employer to perceive you as engaged and eager.
If you’re feeling that your job search is not a quick or easy process, you’re not alone! Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and consider opportunities like internships or volunteering. These can be a great way to develop transferable skills, build your network, and get your foot in the door for a future opportunity.
