Looking for a job can be extremely time consuming and it may be discouraging when you do not get any responses from potential employers. The job market has become highly competitive and it seems as though college students are having trouble looking for a job even though they have a degree and credentials to back them up. However, you can save some time by using these steps when you are looking for a job:
- 1. Decide what you want to do or what field you would like to work in. You want to start building your career early and you don't want to waste time working for someone or a job that you are not passionate for. Additionally, this can help you identify early if what you decide now is what you would also want to continue to do in the future.
- 2. Be confident. If you have studied a certain subject for a while, chances are you have much more knowledge about this subject than other people who are also on the job market competing for the same job.
- 3. Do your research! You probably have a specific or idealistic company to work for. This ties back into looking for jobs that you would want to do in the future and build off of. There are really great businesses out there, you just have to spend the time to do your research.
- 4. Make sure you change your resume to accommodate to each job application. There are specific requirements and qualifications that employers look for and chances are, many companies have different wants and needs. Don't be lazy and alter your resume to make it seem as though your skills and experience align with potential employers wants and needs.
- 5. Be active on social media. Nowadays, social media has become a main source for employers to find out more about their candidates. LinkedIn and Facebook are almost always looked over from job applicants. Make sure that when you Google your name, nothing unprofessional or inappropriate is posted on the web about you.
- 6. In college, students and professors stress the importance of building connections. Someone sitting next to you in class today may be your boss 10 years from now. It helps if you treat everyone kindly, and if you don't want to associate yourself with someone right now, then take a step back and walk away. Don't have beef with others!
- 7. Look for jobs anywhere! Don't rely to using online job search engines, but try to look for jobs in real life. Many universities and colleges alike will host career fairs and invite many great companies who are looking for people just like you!
- 8. ALWAYS BE WELL-PREPARED FOR INTERVIEWS! Don't just wing it. You need to make sure you understand exactly what your potential employer is looking for. If you don't prepare, you may seem like you don't know much and may serve as a disadvantage in your situation.
- 9. Follow up after the interview. Many companies are busy with their day to day tasks and they may forget about your interview. After two weeks, it may be a good suggestion to send an email to the company and follow up with them. Remind them of your motivation and dedication to becoming a great employee for the company and ask if there is anything you can help with them in the mean time.
- 10. After you accept the offer to the job, make sure you remain to have a positive attitude and try your best to climb up the ladder. It really is all about learning and building your career as early as possible and each job you take on is another learning experience.
