Now that you have graduated, learning more about how to handle your job search and how to get a job after college can help guide you through this process and set you up for success. Here are seven valuable tips to help you get started in your new career from Post University’s Center for Career and Professional Development!
Keep the following tips on what to do after college in mind as you start your career:
1. Start Creating Your Portfolio Now
Now is the time to put your portfolio together or add in your finishing touches. In fact, creating a portfolio is a smart move since it helps prepare you for your job search. Make sure to have your portfolio ready to present to each potential employer when you begin applying for jobs.
2. Tell Your Story
As you get ready to start your career, you should work on the story you will tell prospective employers. Your story should communicate the skills you have developed, your career goals and interests, and the knowledge you have gained during college.
Craft Your Message
When you apply for jobs after college, having the right messaging is highly important. You might need to modify your messaging to fit each job or position you apply for. Work on conveying what you have to offer and how you can benefit the company. With the right messaging, you can make a great impression on employers.
Build Your Resume
Begin working on your resume or update your previous one with your newly earned degree. Your resume should include information on your education, skills, and work experience. You might also want to add information on any other relevant experience you have, such as volunteer experience or internships.
Utilize Social Media
Social media offers a good way to tell your story and reach out to industry professionals. When you start your job search after graduation, have your social media accounts focus on relevant information that shows your knowledge about your industry or field, as well as information that highlights your skills.
3. Organize Your Job Search
Staying organized during your career search is important, especially if you apply for several positions. Apply for available positions as soon as possible and keep track of these on a spreadsheet. This can make it easier to know at a glance which companies you have applied to and when you received a reply from them. The following tips can also boost your career search.
Networking Is Key
The people you know can help you get a start in your field or industry. Look for ways to network with alumni, faculty, and industry professionals, for example at industry events, career fairs, and other events. Networking helps you get in touch with people in your field who can provide you with advice and insight, as well as potential information on upcoming j career opportunities.
Find a Mentor
Having a mentor can make your search more successful. Mentors can give you guidance on where to look for available positions and how to make a strong impression on employers. Your mentor can also provide you with more information on what to expect in your field or industry.
Ask for Referrals
As you build your network, look for opportunities to ask for referrals. If someone in your network works for a company that interests you, ask them to refer you to their employer. In some cases, companies rely on referrals from current employees when they need to fill available jobs or positions. This can open additional job opportunities for you after college.
Job Boards
Job boards can provide you with a convenient way to look for openings in your field. Look through job board posts for available positions that interest you. Keep in mind that job boards make it easy for people to find and apply for jobs, so you should expect some competition for the position you want.
4. Always Be Prepared and Proactive
When you are looking to start your career as a college graduate, being prepared is crucial. Openings come and go quickly, so you should make sure you are ready to apply right away. You should also be proactive during your job search in order to find opportunities. Ask friends and family about available positions they might know about, turn to your network, check job boards, and use other sources to find job openings you might be interested in, such as career fairs.
Skill Development
While you search for jobs after graduation, keep your skills fresh. Even if it takes you a while to find a position, your skills should still be sharp. You should also set aside time to develop new skills that you might need in your industry or field. Having additional skills can help you stand out from the competition.
5. Research Potential Employers
Think about the kinds of companies or employers you want to work for. Search for companies that fit your career interests and goals. Keep a list of these potential employers. You can look for openings these companies have posted or get in touch with them to ask about available job opportunities. Doing your research on these companies can also help you prepare for possible job interviews.
6. Stay Up to Date on Industry News
Keeping track of the latest news in your field is a great way to discover possible job opportunities and show potential employers how familiar you are with the industry. Follow organizations and businesses in your industry as well as news sites and other sources to stay up to date on your field.
7. Prepare for Your Interviews
Making a good impression with your cover letter and resume is just the first step. Remember that your resume appearance is as important as what experience you have. Poor spacing, margins, and odd font choices can leave a negative impression preventing you from getting the first interview. Once you get the initial call, you will also need to make a strong impression. Practice answering interview questions before your actual interview, since this can help you prepare and feel less nervous when you meet with a potential employer.
The Center for Career and Professional Development at Post
Post University offers valuable help for students who want to make sure they are fully prepared for the upcoming job search. The Center for Career and Professional Development provides several services to help students build networking skills, create a strong resume, develop interview skills, and learn to search for jobs as effectively as possible.
If you would like more information on Post University’s Center for Career and Professional Development, please contact us.
Thank you for reading! The views and information provided in this post do not reflect Post University programs and/or outcomes directly. If you are interested in learning more about our programs, you can find a complete list of our programs on our website or reach out directly!
Please note jobs, career outcomes, and/or salaries highlighted in this blog do not reflect jobs, career outcomes, and/or salaries expected from any Post program. To learn more about Post’s program and their outcomes, please fill out a form to speak with an admissions representative.