RECENT COLLEGE GRADUATES: How To Find Your Way in the Job Market

Today’s job market is a dog-eat-dog world; or a ‘dogs-are-eating-all-our-jobs’ world. If you are a college graduate and looking for a job, you know what I mean. Any job vacancy you eye these days sees hundreds of applications falling in, out of which maybe 2 or 3 get selected.

What if you are not one of those 3?
Don’t give up yet, meanwhile consider the advice below.

1. Broaden That Career Path, Keeping Your Goal in Mind

Many have an iron-clad career objective in mind – which is good, but can also be bad. They have that one position, that one company they so badly want to work at, that they refuse to use other opportunities or chances. Trying your hand at jobs that may not exactly fit your profile helps you gather valuable skills and experience that may prove useful in the long run.

2. Polish Those Resumes and Cover Letters & Make Them Hit the Bull’s-eye

It is important that you keep your resume up-to-date and relevant to the position you are applying for. Be specific and highlight accomplishments that will help you get noticed. Limit the length to a page or two, not more.
Though the practice is not very common here as it is outside, make sure to include a cover letter. Tell them how unique you are and show that you are well aware of the company’s activities. Definitely limit the page to one.

3. Find a Career Guru

Find someone who has long term experience in the field you are involved with. This person will be able to provide relevant advice, guide the steps you take for your career and give you valuable contacts from his/her network. There are many ready to lend a helping hand these days.

4. Be Positive and Keep Going

You have attended tens of interviews and sent out even more applications for jobs. There have been so many rejections, you have lost count. You are distraught, hopeless and ready to give up…STOP RIGHT THERE!
You must be optimistic. It is very essential that you keep a positive outlook and keep trying. There are many who have been unsuccessful at dozens of interviews, but finally landed the best jobs they could imagine.