6 Tips to Find a First Job Right Out of College
Finding a job right out of college requires more than just a degree. It requires enthusiasm, hard work, and willingness to pursue the path you choose for yourself. When you enter the competition, you might get rejected several times. Yes, landing that first job might be unnerving, but it might get easier if you do a few things right. Here are some tips on how to find a job right out of college.
Create a LinkedIn profile
Ideally, you should begin working on a LinkedIn profile during your senior year, but it is never too late. Create an account and list your extracurricular activities, accolades and awards, and the skills that set you apart. A good profile on the platform will help you find jobs and familiarize you with the industry you want to enter. It will enable you to show employers what you bring to the table. Most importantly, it will allow you to network, which may prove extremely helpful in the future.
Develop a professional website
Having a website will help you in multiple ways. It will give you a medium to showcase your portfolio and work samples. You can also showcase your personality through your website. This can set you apart and show prospective employers you are creative. Creating a website is not a problem in today’s age. You can buy a domain name and use website-building platforms like Wix, Squarespace, or WordPress that are easy to use.
Be ready with an elevator pitch
An elevator pitch is a brief list of the most interesting things about you. Preparing such a pitch helps during an interview. It shows interviewers how you are different from the other applicants and what makes you stand out. Think of this as a 30-second commercial to help people know you and ensure they remember you.
Network
As you start planning your career, you will hear that networking is vital. This is mainly because many positions are not advertised on social media and other employment boards. Only people already a part of an organization or industry may know about an emerging opportunity you might be interested in, and you will have to connect with them on a one-to-one basis. Your network can include friends, family, professors, or anyone working in a company you aspire to be a part of.
Be proactive
Sending a resume to a company is not enough to get a job. You must be proactive. Apply to other positions on LinkedIn, network on different platforms, research, and follow up if you have not heard back from any company you applied to. This tells hiring managers you are up for the job and will utilize all your skills to the fullest.
Get internships
Internships are far more valuable than you think. They show employers that you have experience in the industry, which might put you ahead of many others. Working as an intern is also a great way to test your skills, find out what you like, and understand what works best for you. It also helps you grow your network, improve your networking skills, and sometimes even land your first full-time job.
The thought of finding a job is daunting for everyone, and when you are right out of college, it seems more like an impossible task. The competition out there is extremely fierce, and if you are not the right fit or do not stand out in the sea of applicants, you might find it challenging to land a job. The only way to make sure you get through is to get noticed, and the above tips can help you with the same!