Graduation season is nearly here. If you’re done with your degree, your next step is to find your first job out of college. It’s an exciting and challenging time in your life. So, how you can go about landing that all-important opportunity, one that’s a good steppingstone for your future? Here are some tips to help you:
Don’t wait.
Start searching for a job now. Don’t wait until May when there will be an influx of candidates for employers to screen. A potential employer will understand that you need to finish your degree first. However, the hiring process can take weeks and sometimes even months, so if you start now, you can have a job secured once you graduate.
Create a persuasive resume.
Finding your first job can feel like a conundrum. Many employers want experience. Yet, how can you get that experience without securing a job first?
One of the best ways to overcome this issue is with a strong resume. Don’t copy and paste something boilerplate from the Internet, like so many other new graduates will do. Instead, invest the time and effort to set yourself apart by detailing your college accomplishments, internships, jobs, work study experience, and any extracurricular activities that can set you apart. If you have an impressive GPA, be sure to include it too.
Make sure you’re on LinkedIn.
Once you have a strong resume in place, set up a LinkedIn profile that delves deeper into your background. This is where you can post recommendation letters from your past internship advisors or professors. You can also upload samples of your work. Simply include a URL to this profile on your resume, so potential employers can learn more about you. While your profile doesn’t have to be a mirror image of your resume, make sure there aren’t any discrepancies that could give a hiring manager a reason to re-consider interviewing you.
Use your Career Center.
If your college has a Career Center, take advantage of all the opportunities they offer. They might be able to help with training, resume writing or proofreading, and connecting you with potential jobs that are a good fit for your career goals. They can also help you prepare for interviews and explain what to expect, so you can walk into a company’s office with confidence.
Attend networking events.
Whether it’s through your college, a local business association, or even just online, attending networking events is a great way to get your foot in the door with your company. Make sure you have business cards on hand with your name and contact information that you can give out. Also, don’t just look for job opportunities during these events, but to make connections with others who can help you grow and develop in your career.
Work with an employment agency.
There are many ways to find out about new job openings, from social media to online job boards and more. Another option is through an employment agency. They have recruiters who work with a wide range of employers and can connect you with your first job out of college. They can also help with other aspects of your search, like polishing your resume, interview preparation, and more.
Ready to get started with a professional team?
At Provisional Recruiting, we help candidates of all kinds find rewarding jobs. If you’re a new grad looking for an entry-level position, we can help there too, connecting you with exciting opportunities that put you on track toward achieving your career goals. Search our Spokane jobs now.