How to Get a Job After College
You’ve worked for it for at least four years, through midterms, final exams, and research projects that took up hours of your time. The perfect job after college. How do you achieve this goal that might seem so impossible, especially when you realize how many other people are competing for that particular job, as well. There are some key tips you can utilize to be successful in getting your dream job after college.
Start Planning Now
According to Forbes, too many college students are waiting until the spring of their senior year to start looking at career options and dream jobs, and that might be too late. Starting in the fall of their senior year, or even earlier, is one of the main keys to being successful. It gives you time to research companies, prepare portfolio pieces, build a strong graduate CV and acquire internships that may lead to career opportunities.
Develop an Online Presence
No, your Facebook page is not what we’re talking about here, although all of your social media should reflect a version of you that is looking to get a job: no drinking or partying photos up on Instagram. What this means is that you set yourself up with a webpage that can showcase your talents. If you’re looking to go into finance, why not start a blog and catalogue the ways you’ve saved money through college and your goals for paying off student debt? You should also start a LinkedIn page and make connections with people in the field you’re looking at entering. This is a great way to network before you’ve ever left college.
Find Internships
Internships are a great way to prepare you for future job prospects. It’s even better when you can get internships with major companies, particularly within your field. This brand recognition can be the key to opening lots of doors for you post-graduation. If you do a good job during your internship, you might even qualify for a job with the company. Working hard at an internship or multiple internships is a major key to landing a job after college. It doesn’t matter if you’re fetching coffee or helping develop reports.
Stay in touch with the contacts you make during your internships; they might come in handy down the road. One of your contacts may become your mentor, and you should keep your eyes open and make connections that will lead you to finding a successful mentor in your field. Too often students rely on parents or family friends, but if they’re not in your career field, their mentorship is going to be limited.
Take Advantage of the Career Services Office
Most colleges and universities have a Career Services Office, but too often students don’t use it. Depending on your school, they may offer help in developing your cover letters and resumes. Another major advantage is many schools have an alumni database that they can connect you with. You may find someone who attended your school who is willing to be a mentor.
The Career Services Office may also offer job and internship leads. This can be a great resource for students to look into, and all too often it is under-utilized. When preparing for your job interview, check and see what the office offers in the way of interview prep. You may find someone who can help you through mock interviews, so you can put your best foot forward.
In Summary
Finding a job is challenging for everyone, especially new grads looking to enter the workforce. The sooner you get started on preparing for job prospects, the better your chances are of landing your dream job. Start making connections early and line up internships at companies in your career field.
Resources
https://www.forbes.com/sites/susanadams/2012/11/12/6-things-you-must-do-to-get-your-first-job-after-college/#5b42b5297f74
