Job Search Tips for the New Graduates Out There

When you have the Knowledge but not the Experience

Firstly, congratulations for completing your education goals!  You deserve applause!  But unfortunately, your hard work is not over.  You need to find employment in a very difficult job market.  Confidence and charisma is key, but a few job search tips doesn’t hurt either.

• A resume that stands out from the others is key!  Don’t make it too flashy or crazy, but make it interesting enough to catch the reader’s eye. Make them want to learn more about you. Tailor each resume to fit that job description. Highlight your best points on the cover letter.  What can YOU offer them?  How can you make their company better?
• If your work experience is brief or non-existent, play up your volunteer or internship positions, talk about your best education experiences, any awards you may have received, or professional memberships.
• Use references that will talk highly about you.  If you don’t have work experience, ask someone who chairs on an organizational committee, or a professor that knows your highlights. A volunteer coordinator who may have been impressed by your initiative.
• Research the company thoroughly. Who are their customers?  How can you attract more business?  Think about how you will fit into the organization. Know their products or services enough that you can talk about them with ease.  This will really impress the interviewer.
• Be ready for interview questions about yourself and how you would react in certain situations.  While researching the company, think about the work scenarios and how you would react.
• Don’t neglect your school’s career department to get tips on where to look for employment.  Talk to your professors.  They have a wealth of knowledge and experience.
• Clean up your social media presence.  Join Linked In.
• If there’s a job you really want, don’t be too shy to deliver your resume in person.  Ask for the hiring supervisor, dress professional, shake hands, and look them in the eye.  Make it so they will remember you.
• Keep your skills current while looking for work.  Volunteer at an organization that compliments your professional career. Make friends with the supervisor and get all the tips you can from those working in the field.