If you don’t have a job secured, don’t fret. It is a strong job market and very different from last year at this time. Now it’s time to put your focus on your job search. Looking for a job is a job in itself.
Here are some things you should start doing right now:
- Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to align with the types of roles to which you are applying.
- Build your LinkedIn network with former classmates, sorority/fraternity family, professors, club members and more. The more connections you have, the more likely you will have a connection at the company where you applied to a posted position.
- Network, network, network! The most important part of your job search is talking to people. You cannot sit at the computer all day applying to jobs and think you will get results.
- Ask for help! Do not be afraid you are bothering someone. Alumni are great contacts to get into a company, learn about a profession, and tap into their network. They were all in your shoes and know what it’s like to be looking for that first job. They should all be paying it forward, as you will in the future.
- Continue your education. There are lots of free courses online, and specifically enhancing your technology skills will be a differentiator. Again, you can’t be applying to jobs all day, you will burnout. Establish a routine that consists of job searching, reading/learning and taking care of your wellbeing.
Give yourself some time and forgiveness during this period. You just achieved a huge accomplishment graduating with a college degree. The next chapter is waiting for you. The world is your oyster.
