Landing a job after graduation can be either a sweet deal or nerve-wracking depending on how prepared you are. Knowing the things you’ll need to get in order before graduating can put you a step ahead verse not being prepared. Check out our list of tips below that will help when entering the job market.
1. Spice up your Resume
A strong resume can be a golden ticket that gives employers valuable insight into what type of employee you would be.This type of document is the first thing the employer sees that helps them determine if you’re the right candidate for their company. A remarkable resume helps you separate from other candidates so you can stick out and be more appealing for the job. Resumes are a way to show off a clear and developed personal brand, too Coming out of college, most student don’t have work experience related to their field to put on their resume, that’s why it’s important to get involved in student organization like PRSSA, Student Ad Fed, and others. Joining these organizations shows you've taken initiative to learn more about your field and begin the networking process.
2. Create a network
When networking, you have to think outside of the box and go a step further than just passing out your business card. Connect with your professors. They could make a great reference and oftentimes have connections in the professional world. On social media, follow the right professionals in your career field, both local and national, and pursue positive interactions with them. Universities usually have guest speakers from different fields come in and talk to students about their job fields. This would be a great way to connect and familiarize yourself with that person and company. Also, each department secretary sends out emails on jobs in your field that’s looking for interns or possible employers, which in terms can be very helpful as well. Don’t wait until graduation to connect with others and putting together your portfolio.
3. Putting together a Portfolio
The portfolio is a step up from your resume. It not only includes your resume but it gives you the opportunity to showcase your writing skills, design skills, and more. Include your best work and remember to diversify when necessary. For instance: if you're applying for a position at a magazine publication, your portfolio should include writing examples of both print and digital work. Getting your writing samples published shows that extra mile you’ve taken and it also looks good on your portfolio. Landing an internship will also help give your piece to put into your portfolio.
4. Landing an internship
It can be quite challenging trying to study and complete all of your assignments on time. Balance and organization is just what you’ll need to get things in order to make time for a internship. The importance of a internship is to get hands-on experience that will be quite useful to you and it looks excellent on a resume. There’s all types of internships out there to fit your schedule whether you need full-time part-time, paid or unpaid.Many universities have career centers where students can get free information about internship opportunities.
Looking for more information about soon-to-be graduates preparing for the job hunt? Check out these other helpful tips here.