Your already paying for this service with your tuition, so use it! Most schools offer students access to their career experts, and they can help students map out job searches, draft resumes and cover letters and perform practice interviews. Most career resource centers also offer job fairs and have contacts with companies you might be interested in. Taking a trip to the career resource center at your school is a great first step to figuring out exactly what you need to do to get hired.
2. USE (AND EXPAND!) YOUR NETWORK
Referrals have become increasingly important, so its important to reach out to people you’ve worked with in previous jobs or internships to see if they know anything available. Also, don’t be afraid to reach out to your friends, family or even professors to help put your foot in the door at a company. LinkedIn also offers a great way for students to connect with recruiters and show off their skills. Students should keep networking though, and look for young professional happy hours or get-togethers they can attend so they can meet new people and expand their network. Another way to expand your network is to volunteer at an organization that coincides with your interests. By meeting people in person and not online, job-seekers make a more lasting and meaningful impression.
3. FOLLOW-UP
Haven’t heard anything after submitting your cover letter? Don’t be afraid to reach out! If you have a contact at the company, that’s a great person to get in touch with, but if not you could also contact a hiring manager or someone in HR. Following up helps you stand out and shows you’re interested in the position. However, it’s important not to inundate them with messages. A few e-mails spread out over two-weeks to a month should do the trick.
4. DON’T JUST RELY ON TECHNICAL SKILLS
Employers know that coming out of college you won’t have much real-world experience. It’s important to emphasize so-called “soft skills,” like writing and communication, since most work environments involve working with teams. Also, don’t be afraid to list major projects or accomplishments you’ve had in the classroom, like a huge group project. Showing off what you’ve learned from your life experiences will show a recruiter you’re well-rounded and have street smarts.
5. CLEAN UP YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA
It should go without saying that before you’re hired, a company is sure to take a look at your social media presence. All of your social media profiles, not just LinkedIn, should give employers a peek at your personal “brand,” so make sure everything looks cohesive. Also, be sure to watch out for things an employer may deem inappropriate, whether it’s a photo itself or even just a caption.
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