It’s graduation season, which means hundreds of thousands of students across the country are entering their career field, and are looking to secure their first post-grad job in a competitive market. Here are some tips on how to score an interview with a potential job option.
1. Don’t limit your options
Do you have a degree in Public Relatoins, but have experience in writing? You can still apply for editorial postitions. You don’t have to limit yourself because of your degree, experience speaks for itself. With that being said, know what your limits are. If you have a history degree, you probably shouldn’t apply to be a nurse.
2. Be willing to change your resume + cover letter
Different jobs have different needs, so your resume should reflect that for every job you apply to. This might mean you have three or four versions of the same resume, but could be the difference that gets you a job. Also, every cover letter should be slightly different to reflect the needs of each company, too.
3. Update your LinkedIn profile
If you aren’t on LinkedIn, do you even exist? This is your chance to include everything that didn’t fit on your resume. Include awards, special skills, extra classes, etc. This is the time to make you stand out from the rest of the competition.
4. Apply even if the job isn’t a 100% match
A lot of times, jobs want previous experience, certain skills, etc. Even if you don’t meet the requirements in full, if it is a job you can see yourself doing, apply. Skills can be learned, your determination is what really matters.
5. Network. Network. Network.
Every person you meet in your industry could help potentially find a job, or even give a glowing recommedation for you. You never know who could help, so be willing to talk to and learn from anybody and everybody.
6. Thank you’s matter
After an interview, be sure to send a thank you note to the person that you spoke to. At the very least, shoot them an email expressing your gratitude. This could be the one thing that sets you apart from everyone else trying to go for the same position.
Overall, this could potentially be a long process. Don’t give up or get discouraged. And remember that your first job might not be your dream job or forever job, but it will be the job that gets your foot in the door, and helps you launch your career. Good luck!