Ok, so you’ve got that fresh, new diploma or degree in hand.
You’ve celebrated your accomplishment with family and friends and
taken the post-graduation cruise. What’s next? Now that the party
is over, it’s time to put that shiny piece of paper to use and get
a job. This is actually where the hard work begins. Finding your
first job can be more difficult than any exam that you’ve ever
taken.
However, with the proper tools and planning, finding your
first job can be less painful than you originally expected. The
following are steps that can put you on the path to finding your
first professional job:
- Set your direction – Believe it or not, even
after several years of school, you still may not know exactly what
type of job you are looking for. In order to determine your goals,
take stock of your strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. This
knowledge will help build confidence, improve your ability to sell
yourself and assist you in determining your direction and game
plan.
- Do more homework – After graduation, you
thought homework would be a thing of the past, right? Wrong!
Research the industries and companies that interest you to learn
about their products, services, locations, growth and any other
trends, news or issues surrounding them. Focus your efforts on
those industries and companies that interest you and expand the
list as you continue your research.
- Get your tools ready – The necessary tools for
an effective job search are the resume and cover letter. Take time
to develop a resume and cover letter that effectively communicates
your experience and skills and that makes you stand out from the
rest.
- Network – You know the saying, “It’s not what
you know, but who you know.” Take advantage of any resources that
you might have. Family, friends, career placement agencies or trade
associations can all play a vital role in helping you land your
first job. Develop a contact list of everyone you know that could
assist you and inform them of what you are looking to achieve.
- Be professional – if you want to join the professional world,
obviously you have to present yourself professionally.
Dress appropriately for
all interviews and networking opportunities. An investment in a
conservative business suit is one of the best investments you
will
ever make.
Practice answering tough
questions before taking an interview.
Follow up all meetings
with thank you letters.
Make sure your voicemail
messages and e-mail addresses are professional.
- Keep the faith – Be persistent in your search
and don’t take rejection personally. Continue to send resumes and
covers letters to companies that interest you, even if they
currently don’t have open positions.
- Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom –
Simply put, obtaining a lower-level position is better than
nothing. It will help you pay the rent and better yet, give you
experience that will pay dividends later in your career. Showing
that you are willing to “pay your dues” will demonstrate that you
are a team player and help you in the future.
