Navigating the job market can be a daunting task even to those who have finished school with flying colors. And if you are one of those who graduated a college without a solid plan you are probably underwhelmed, to say the least. Well, merely spending your time on college does not cut it. It is time to enter the real world and make a smooth transition. Unless you take steps towards making your dreams a reality, you will not be able to get your foot in the door.
Spreading the web
Getting recruited to a job straight from senior year is one of those things that do not just happen: Wishing does not make it so. After all, there are many things you can do to make a difference. First of all, you have to gain a sense of direction and discover what you want to do. Have reasonable expectations and pinpoint suitable entry-level positions. Be prepared to fail and go through several interviews before you get a job.
Next, create a LinkedIn profile. Include any awards, accolades, prior work experience, skills, interests, etc. And do not worry in case the profile is just a bare-bones list of your academic accomplishments. The booming business hub is the place where employers hunt for talent and it pays off to set up an account early on and start building your network. A Facebook profile does not compare, as it hardly offers the same benefits and career opportunities.
In addition, there are some other tactics to establish an online presence and increase your exposure. For instance, many young people utilize WordPress or some other platform for blogging. Buying your own domain via services such as GoDaddy.com is simple and does not cost an arm and a leg. What is more, blogging is a great way to carve out a niche and embark down the career path you have always dreamed of.
Name of the game
Online adventures are just one part of the strategy. The other one involves the “real world”. Most importantly, strive to get an internship. Students recognize its value, but only some of them do something about it. So, take action right away because it is never too early to commence this undertaking. The best targets are reputable companies with wide brand recognition. A big name on a résumé may prompt another business to offer you a position.
Furthermore, lack of practical professional experience is a hurdle on the road to landing a job. Fortunately, organizations like Premium Graduate can help you overcome it. They provide learning opportunities, coaching, and skill development for graduates and students. Professional development or industry-specific are not to be overlooked either. Many schools possess college or school chapters of major professional groups that aid students in reaching out established professionals.
Paving the way
Likewise, a college’s career service office is a place where you can get career help. It is strange how many students ignore the opportunity that is right under their noses. Namely, these offices hold valuable alumni database and besides that, they should be able to help you with your job interview, résumé, cover letter writing, or honing your communication skills that can take you very far in the business world.
Another sound course of action is finding a mentor. Namely, surveys have shown that 70% of students state that they have at least one mentor. Some of them rely on their parents, others on professors, and there are those that point up to friends and family members as mentors. However, letting parents act as your mentor is not really advisable. It is always preferable to utilize social networks and contact a trusted expert instead.
Up the ante
It is never a good idea to put job concerns off. The longer you wait the worse your prospects become. Having a degree is fine but it is not your ticket to the business club. What you need to do in order to maximize your chances of snatching a gig is to get serious. Take advantage of resources at your disposal. Create mentoring connections, start networking, let your online persona shine, and embrace a proactive approach. That is how you make headways into professional field and climb up that career ladder.
