I graduated from college a few weeks ago, and since then I have spent the majority of my time refining my resume, drafting cover letters, meeting with employers, and waiting by the phone for job offers. Throughout this exhausting process, I’ve come across a vast expanse of career tips and resources that can help anyone searching for a job, whether you’re a recent grad like myself or a seasoned veteran looking to spice up your resume:
Search
Newspaper classified ads were sooooo last year. It’s all about the internet these days, which thankfully makes the process a lot easier through customizable options. This is a list of the top 9 search engines:
Monster
College Monster
Simply Hired
Indeed
Career Builder
Job Search Engine
Craigslist
Yahoo Hot Jobs
Snag a Job
Instead of waiting for a company to come to you, why not approach them? Research companies that appeal to you. Many companies post job listings directly on their site, or provide a way to send in your resume and cover letter.
Resume
Use your resources to your advantage. If you’re still in school, go to your campus career center to get your resume and cover letter critiqued. If you’re not, check out some of these links to help enhance your resume
Resume Writing Tips
Resume Samples
Make sure to include some personal aspects about yourself. Include your interests, hobbies, volunteer experience, etc. to make sure you stand out from the rest and to help give employers an idea about who you are (I received this advice from an employer just a few days ago).
Network/Social Media
Join Linked In. Be sure to update your resume, look for old colleagues, and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations.
Monster is a great resource for professional networking tips. There’s advice for women, techies, shy people, and everyone in between.
Keep your online profiles work-appropriate. This tip is especially directed towards the recent college grads. An employer won’t be impressed with your keg stand and beer pong skills.
Interview
Brush up on your interview techniques. Here are some of my favorite articles that can help you prep for the toughest of interviews
8 Ways To Turn Off Your Interviewer
Ten Job Interview Tips
Interview Mistakes You Wish You Could Take Back
When The First Interview Is A Phone Call
Before you go into an interview, make sure you know what the company is all about. Google will become your best friend. Being unprepared can make you look unprofessional in an interview.
Don’t forget to dress for success. No matter how experience or glowing references you have, a shabby appearance will ding you some major points.
Turn your cell phone off! Not silent, off.
Prepare beforehand. Practice out loud some of the questions you think you will be asked. Make sure to have a list of questions that you will ask the employer at the end of the interview.
After the Interview
Remain confident. It’s unlikely you’ll find your dream job in this economy, or even find a job at all. But that doesn’t mean you should start wallowing in self-pity. Negative energy can only hurt you. In the mean time, check out this helpful blog post that offers advice on how to revamp your job search:
Change Up Your Job Search
Take an online course or sign up for a workshop to develop and expand your skill set. Familiar with Photoshop? Become proficient. Also, did you know that the stimulus package includes funding for adult job training? Take advantage of this opportunity.
What are some of your top career tips and advice? Tell us in the comments section!
