Summer is quickly approaching and college graduates around the country are thinking about their next steps in life. It’s not the best time to enter the job market, with competition stiff and people going back to work, but that isn’t a reason to get discouraged. Looking for a job out of college is never easy. It is always daunting to find your first job after graduating.
Luckily you aren’t alone and there are a variety of different methods to overcome this anxiety and find the right job for your education and goals. Here are some tips for looking for a job after graduating.
Create Multiple Versions of Your Resume
According to a recent study, 45 percent of 2020 graduates are still looking for work and now the class of 2021 will join them. This means that you will need to stand out amongst the crowd. One way to do this is to create multiple versions of your resume. Having a variety of different resumes available helps you have the version that you need right away when you are applying for jobs.
Is Your Resume Not Getting Shortlisted?
With customized resumes and cover letters specifically designed for multiple positions, you will grab the attention of hiring managers. You should also think about your different hiring angles. What was your education in? What is your experience level? How can these details be promoted as reasons to hire you for that particular job? You must think about the way you can sell yourself and having different resumes on hand will help you do that.
Bolster Online Presence & Network
Increasingly in the modern world, your online presence and professional network on the internet will affect your chances of being hired. This includes going on LinkedIn to expand your network, update your page, and cleaning up other social media profiles that may have unprofessional content. Whatever your online presence, you should carefully curate it to fit the positions you are looking for. Committing yourself to this level of dedication will pay off in the end.
Keep Expectations Reasonable
A lot of times what happens is the student wants their dream job right out of college. This is rarely ever the case. Entry-level positions are not usually the dream job of the new college graduate. The most important thing is to be okay with not getting your dream job right away.Managing your expectations will save you from disappointment and sadness surrounding your position. It’s important to view your first job as a stepping stone, a path that will eventually lead to the job you want. If you are dreaming about a position that is out of reach, the world will let you know when you go looking for it and return empty-handed.
Be Ready for Background Checks
With competition being as stiff as ever, a lot of companies are running a job background check to verify the information. These checks will provide employers about your past. Avoid lying about your experience or criminal record as businesses will likely find out and you will have to answer for false information. It is better, to be honest, and confident, exhibiting that you are aware of your shortcomings but can easily overcome them by learning quickly and adapting to new surroundings. If you have nothing to worry about, then a background check won’t be a problem for you.
You→ Good Resume →Job
Do Some Research
Finally, it’s important to do your research about which companies are hiring, who will hire entry-level workers, and what people are paying college graduates they’re hiring. When you take the time to do research and learn about what exactly you should be looking for and what you will be paid, you will be able to send the right applications and work towards finding the right job. The more research you do, the less difficult it will be.
Looking for a job is never easy, but it sure can be a lot easier if you follow these simple tips. By doing research, being ready for the hiring process, managing your expectations, and standing out with your resume and online presence, you just may be able to find that great entry-level position you need to get started in your professional life. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!
