I’m going to be 100% honest with you: searching for my first post-grab job has been a bit of a struggle. The amount of hours I’ve spent browsing through LinkedIn and polishing my resume makes even my most egregious Netflix binge look like nothing.
While I am still on the hunt for full-time employment (hire me, please?!), I have sought the advice of actual professionals and recent grads to get insider tips and advice on how secure my own j-o-b. Taking into account the words of wisdom from people who actually have successfully obtained gainful employment, I’ve come up with this short practical list that I believe will help you through your own job-hunting experience. Read on and hopefully, these few words of advice can get you started on a healthy and happy road to the working world!
Narrow Down Your Search: The job market is huge and it can take a lot of energy and time to search through it in its entirety. Try to be more detailed in your search, especially if you know which industry you see yourself in. Look into specific companies and locations rather than simply Googling a job title.
(Photo via @kierraxmakayla)
Take Initiative: If simply entering your general info and attaching a resume to a job application seems too redundant, go the extra mile and contact professionals personally either through LinkedIn messaging or email. You would be surprised to find out that many professionals appreciate this confidence and are more than willing to help you.
(Photo via @ernmrn)
Be Intentional: Do you see yourself actually working for this company? Is this the job you see yourself growing and learning from? Hiring managers will be able to tell between someone who is actually passionate about the position and someone who is just looking for a paycheck.
(Photo via @alexadmendoza)
Do Your Research: You can never know too much about the company and position you’re applying for! Prepare yourself for a potential interview by researching everything from company history to individual professionals.
(Photo via @tayy_kay)
Edit, Edit, Edit: I cannot stress enough how important it is to review and edit all your resumes, cover letters, and emails. You risk having all your hard work in applying fall short if you end up turning in a resume with even a single typo or an email that misspells the name of your point of contact.
(Photo via @lauraardelean)
Seek Advice: Find a mentor, ask a professor, or talk to a recent post-grad. Find people who are willing to not only encourage you, but also give you some constructive criticism. The job hunt will be easier if you have second set of hands to help and guide you in the right direction.
(Photo via @savannahjslaton)
Don’t Let Yourself Get Discouraged: This has been my biggest struggle as I see friends and colleagues obtain their dream jobs left and right while I sit in front of my computer uncertain about my own future. But I realized it’s important to note that no two people are alike and that your timeline for a career is different than everyone else’s.
(Photo via @marilang_)
Pick Up A Career Handbook: If you’re looking for more qualified advice, try reading books and articles written by professionals with years of experience. To start, grab a copy of The Career Code: Must-Know Rules of a Strategic, Stylish, and Self-Made Career written by Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power for some awesome practical tips and tricks.
(Photo via @therachelstory)
What tips have you found in finding your own job? Let us know in the comments below!
