The job market may be improving on paper, but recent college graduates are still facing challenges when trying to secure a job. College graduates are jumping into the job market with less work experience than their competition. In order to stand out against the competition, graduates need to keep it personal.
Author Michael Price of “What Next? The Millennial’s Guide to Surviving and Thriving in the Real World,” suggests that graduates are too lazy in their job search. They are posting their resume on job boards, but failing to put forth extra effort to follow-up and provide extra materials like a cover letter.
The internet has changed the way we apply for jobs. Author Richard Lewis explains applying online is similar to “buying a lottery ticket, given the chances of success against hundreds or thousands of applicants.” To better your chances, he says, “Select the companies you want to work for and contact them directly.” Go straight to the department you want to work for and find a way to connect with them.
Here are 5 ways you can stand out as a new graduate:
- Take unpaid positions and prove yourself as a hard worker. Companies are more willing to hire someone that they already know works hard than take a risk on someone else.
- Create a video resume if the job is for a creative position. This is a perfect way to show your accomplishments, motivation, and energy.
- Networking is still the best way to get a job. When it is done correctly, networking opens up doors that you wouldn’t even know existed.
- Create a job instead of relying on just finding one. There are not enough jobs for everyone, but there are still some industries out there where you can come in to help (even if there isn’t an advertised position).
- Find other ways to show you are real person and not just words on a screen.
See the following articles for more information:
- The Best Career Advice for Soon-to-Be Graduates
- New Graduates Should Work Part-Time Jobs to Acquire Skills!
Photo: huffingtonpost.com
