I’ve Graduated! Now What?

You have spent the last four years staying up late studying for finals and completing reports and presentations. You recently walked across that stage and received the sacred diploma, as your parents beamed from their seats below with pride. Your dorm room is packed, and you are back in your room at home surrounded by old posters you taped to your walls while in high school. Reality has sunk in. You are officially a grownup with student loans to be paid back. You need a job!

Hopefully, you were actively applying to jobs while you were still in school, but if not, don’t lose faith in yourself. You should think of a job-searching strategy. Here are a few steps to help you along the way.

Determine the job you want. The very first thing you need to do is determine the exact type of job you desire. Make a list of your skills and talents, and determine which activities or tasks you feel you are particularly strong in.

Determine the best companies for you. Research companies that fit your needs, style, and personality. Examine issues, like the size of the company, corporate culture, management style, employee empowerment, and other concerns of importance to you.

Determine your search strategy. Take advantage of the following tools and resources.

1. On-campus recruiting and career center registry. Many companies recruit on-campus. You need to investigate what companies are coming and plan on interviewing with some of them, even if it is only for the experience. Make sure you register with your college career service center for alums.

2. Career fairs. Attend college, university, local, or regional fairs, as well as industry events.

3. Networking. One of the hidden gems of job-hunting and one of the keys to a successful job search. The vast majority of jobs are filled through referrals and through networking. Make sure you sign up for an account on LinkedIn.

4. Direct mail campaign. Identify companies and specific hiring managers and send them your cover letter and résumé.

5. Internet job sites and company websites. Visit these on a regular basis, and apply whenever you see a position that catches your eye. Remember to follow all the application instructions carefully.

Get your résumé and cover letter critiqued. Once you have an air-tight résumé and cover letter, post them online and on different job sites. Make sure you cater your résumé and cover letter to the company and position you are applying for.

Do interview preparation. Go to free workshops and refine your interviewing skills. Review lists of frequently asked interview questions and develop a set of questions to ask employers.

Expand your knowledge. Get an internship in an area you want to work in. Do some volunteer work. You can also take certification classes that will give you an edge (i.e. master Photoshop, Illustrator, Excel).

The key to conducting a successful job search is to be proactive and consistent. Don’t give up. Good luck with your search!