The New Year is practically upon us, and as a student, you might be thinking about your goals for this year, including your first job after college.
Your first job is a crucial moment in your career, and finding the perfect opportunity can be a daunting prospect. But Resume-Library is here to help.
Here are 10 ways to boost your graduate job hunt and secure a job in 2018.
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You may be keen to start searching and applying for the latest graduate jobs, but before you do, you should spend some time considering what you want to do.
Firstly, make a list of your skills, experiences, and certificates. Not only will this give you an idea of what you’re qualified to do, but it will also act as the foundations of your resume.
Then make a note of your essential job search criteria, such as the industry, location, and salary, followed by the “nice-to-haves,” like the company culture and workplace perks. Bolster your thoughts with research to keep your must-haves in line with reality.
If you know what you want out of a job search, you’ll find the process more productive and successful.
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If you had a part-time position as a student, you might be familiar with job application processes. However, your experience applying for your first full-time graduate job is likely to be a little different.
For a start, you may be required to attend multiple interviews, perhaps a group interview, or a competency-based one. Also, you might be expected to take psychometric or competency test to confirm your suitability.
The application process will differ from business to business. Do your research on what to expect, so you’re fully prepared for any outcome.
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Before you put yourself out there as an active job hunter, take some time to review your social media profiles. Once a recruiter or hiring manager receives your application, they will check your social presence, and you’ll leave a lasting impression for the wrong reasons if you don’t update your privacy settings.
Google yourself and see how much of your life is exposed in one search. If you see something you wouldn’t want a prospective employer to, crack down on privatizing, hiding or deleting your digital footprint.
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There are many ways to search for a job. It’s important that you utilize as many tools as you can manage, rather than limit yourself to one technique.
You could register with a job board like Resume-Library, sign up to a staffing agency, browse jobs on social media, tap into your professional network, check out industry press, or visit employers’ websites for the latest postings.
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Another way to boost your graduate job hunt is to create a resume that showcases your talent effectively.
Firstly, think about the content and structure of your resume. Since you’re a graduate, your education will be your top selling point, so include this section near the top of your resume.
Also, detail your employment history. If you don’t have any work experience, alter the title of this section to read “projects and placements” and detail notable projects, in and out of college, to compensate.
Proofread your resume thoroughly. If potential employers spot mistakes, they’re unlikely to want you to represent their brand.
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If you want to get the most out of your graduate job hunt, you need to track every single job application. This includes the jobs that interest you, the ones you’ve applied for and where you are in the application process.
Also, keep a record of contact details. You don’t want to risk receiving a call from an employer and not know which job application they’re referring too!
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You can also boost your job search by being proactive; treat your job search like your full-time job.
For example, you could send chasers for applications you haven’t heard back from, you might make an effort to end every cover letter with a call to action, or you may push your presence on LinkedIn to get your name out there, and your abilities noticed.
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Just because you’re done with college, it doesn’t mean that you should stop nurturing your skills. Not only does continuous learning show prospective employers that you’re a keen and proactive individual, but it also gives you a competitive edge over your fellow graduates.
Why not check out Google Digital Garage which offers free digital marketing tutorials to help you succeed in business?
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While college may be over, the career support it can offer is not. Most colleges and universities have expert career advisors to help you make career decisions throughout your education and beyond graduation.
If you ever need your resume looking over or could do with some interview practice, make sure you tap into this valuable resource.
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It’s great to have the ideal role in mind when starting your job search. However, that doesn’t mean you should knock an opportunity because it doesn’t fit the bill completely.
If you’ve found a job that’s almost perfect, it’s worth applying for the opportunity anyway. If you’re successful, you may be able to negotiate the extras.
In addition, if an application was unsuccessful, don’t assume that the door has closed. Make the most of this opportunity and ask if the employer has any work experience or shadowing schemes you could join instead.
Ready to improve your CAREER PROSPECTS?
Laura Slingo is Digital Copywriter for Resume-Library, the fastest-growing job board in the U.S. For more expert advice on job searches, careers, and the workplace, visit their Career Advice pages.
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