If you saw my Career Rescue column in Sunday’s Jobs section, you already know how important it is for those just graduating for college to have a job-search plan. The job market is improving, and that’s good news for everyone – including recent grads – but finding a job still takes planning, organization and work.
It also takes networking, which means newly-minted grads need to meet people, ask questions, visit with those working in their chosen field and learn everything they can about the industry, the skill sets needed and the available jobs.
For those who want a checklist to start them out, I’ve put together this list of start-up tips:
• Gather personal insight and know what distinguishes you from the crowd.
• Develop a strong resume, not a generic, one-size-fits-all document you send to every job opportunity. Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for with keywords and skills best suited for that job highlighted.
• Practice your introduction statement until you can give it in a clear concise way and with confidence (not arrogance).
• Consider temp work while job searching for full-time positions.
• Develop an “employer” attitude. Frame your search in terms that show you want to help the company reach its goals.
• Join groups that match your areas of interests. Don’t forget alumni associations and your college career-placement centers for networking opportunities.
• Combine all elements of a job search in a weekly schedule of activities so you can measure the results of your efforts. Include your online presence; use of social media; job applications; job fairs; trade association memberships and meetings; marketing correspondence and informational.
