Job Hunting Tips for Graduates

Informational Interviewing

Informational interviewing is a great way to show
employers that you are enthusiastic and motivated about your career.  Target companies and set up informational
interviewing’s to get out front of the competition.

Personal Brand

Just as companies sell their products or services, you
can do the same by marketing your skills. 
Create and emphasize your selling points and skills.  Create and design business cards to represent
your profile and become a highly efficient marketing tool.

Build your Networking.

Let your family, friends, alumni, and neighbors know that you are job seeking. Sign-up for online
networking websites and attend community networking groups.

Join LinkedIn and other Social Media Sites.

LinkedIn is where recruiters, hiring managers, and Human Resource Managers are going to find talent.  Make sure your profile is complete and stay active by joining groups, posting status updates, and following companies.

Create Business Cards.

You may not have a title at a company, but don’t let that stop you from creating your profile on a business card.  There are several websites available on-line to assist you in developing your profile card. Having business cards is a convenient and useful tool to provide people with your contact information.

Research the company.

Search company websites in your field of study or interest.  Study the company’s mission statement, service, product, management and financials.  Look into the benefits package and how it meets your needs.

Temporary/Part time to Full time agencies

Sometime part-time employment is the best way to gain full-time employment in your desired occupation.  It opens the door to reflect your skills and ability to the company and its’ culture. It also allows the employer to place you in the company where your
skills and ability best benefits you and the company.

Volunteer.

Volunteer at non-profit and profit organizations to establish a relation with others and gain more useful skills.

Internship

Internships can help you develop on the job training for your professional occupation. Internships may be used to determine if an individual has an interest in certain professions.  Internship often reflects your motivation and determination to succeed.

Be aware of your Social Media Profile.

Before a company contacts you, they may look into your social media profile so it’s a good idea to clean up your image.  Social Media such as Twitter, Blogs, Facebook, and LinkedIn can be useful resources when job seeking.  Make certain your impression represents you in a positive image.

 

Source: March 8, 2013/Herald News/The Career Centers

 

 

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