College Survival Advisor

There’s great news when it comes to finding a job after college: It will probably seem to you like you’ve done it before. Remember when you started the college application process and there were mounds of research, essay letters, applications to fill, etc? Well, that’s precisely what’s involved in a job search. This section will go over the key steps so you get a basic, practical idea as to what a job hunt entails.

Research Opportunities

First, do your homework. Use the Internet, read the newspaper, check job boards, talk to friends, family and mentors to figure out where you want to work. Hopefully, if you’ve experienced summer jobs or a part-time internship in your intended major, you might have some valued work connections who can help leverage a foot in the door.

Hard Work

Afterward, it takes good old-fashioned hard work:

1. Organize your Resume: If you are unsure how to create an eye-catching, noteworthy resume, find sample resumes in books or on the Internet and mold your resume to fit that standard. Afterward, have a trusted friend or mentor assist with fine-tuning. You can also hire a professional who will create a resume based on the information and credentials you provide. If you go this route, keep in mind that costs will vary, depending on the service. Do research on the Internet or file a quick search on Craigslist, where you can usually find a reputable source.
2. Write Impeccable Cover Letters: The cover letter is very similar to a 100-word or less admissions essay. Tell about yourself, your major, the college you attended and any worthwhile training and work experience along with leadership roles you have held. This is your first impression to let the hiring party know why you are the confident, responsible person they should add to their team.
3. Send Resumes in Droves: When sending resumes, it is best to deliver your credentials in person or utilize email. If you send a resume via email, be certain to find the contact information for the hiring person where you plan to work. Here’s why: If you send your resume, blind, to an HR (Human Resources) Dept., chances are good your resume will go into a bin along with 100-plus applicants. This will only get you lost in the shuffle. The same goes with submitting you resume via fax.
4. Develop Company Contacts: Whatever it takes, try to develop rapport with an individual who works at the company where you desire to work. If you do this, that individual will most likely be more than happy to walk your resume into the hiring head, deliver your resume, AND give you a sparkling recommendation. This sort of spear-heading will make you a stand-out candidate, giving you a foot up on the competition.
5. Ace the Interview: When you go in for an interview take the necessary steps to prepare. This doesn’t mean just donning your best suit. Focus your time and brainstorm to come up with answers to potential questions. Why are you the best candidate for the job? What is your work experience when it comes to working with others? Are you able to multi-task? Do you need little supervision or do you thrive in an autonomous role? Don’t come up with canned answers, either. Rather, consider your experiences and draw from them. Finally, approach interviews with the mindset that you are the person doing the interview. Ask relevant questions to see if the company is a good fit for you, not vice-versa.
6. Keep a Positive Outlook: Unless you hit the jackpot and get the perfect job from the get-go, there will be times when you may feel downright depressed. Take control of the situation! Attack the job search with all out perseverance and determination. Again, if you put the same dedication into the job hunt, as you did with the college hunt, you will eventually land your dream job, too.

Job-Hunting in a Tough Economy

Finding a job isn’t something that can be accomplished in a day. Sometimes, it takes months or even a year to find your dream job. If you can’t wait that long, there are things to consider:

1. Benefits: While salary is important, evaluate the entire benefit package. If the company offers a salary a few thousand less than you anticipated, but offers full-dental and medical insurance, two-weeks vacation, a 401-K plan, company car, cell phone and gas mileage reimbursement–go for it.
2. Salary Expectations: Research industry boards and career profiles within your area. Determine the average salary for the work you want and use that knowledge when it comes to negotiating an acceptable rate of pay.
3. Company Quality: When it comes to a job offer, look at the broad scope of the company with regard to growth and promotion opportunities. Although there are times when you have to focus on landing a job now, still consider where you would like to be in the next five years and determine if the organization has a solid platform to fulfill your career goals.
4. Satisfaction vs. Money: Although it is fantastic to be able to pay the bills and have spare change afterward, it is rarely advised to take a job for money alone. Always consider the company’s culture, your skill set and the job’s requirements. Focus on building a stable, rewarding career, not just getting a high paying job.
5. Remove Extraneous Forces: When it comes to accepting a job, don’t listen to what your parents or friends tell you to do. Do what you want to do. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take great, helpful advice. Rather, it means you should follow your heart and make an informed decision based on your career goals and desires.
6. Make Decisions Based on the Present: Never approach a work opportunity with a “what if” philosophy. Rather, consider your current circumstances and make a solid decision based on your current situation. Work and personal life will continually change, so focus on where you are today.