The other day I was speaking to a newly minted college graduate. Our conversation turned toward job seaching and career pursuits targeted to her degree in Human Resource Managment. She expressed her frustration with her job search and her passion for the work she hopes to do once she gets a job. I began to ask her about her job search action plan and listened intently as she provided details on her strategy. What I didn't hear was the obvious and it made me think that some of our graduates don't know the basics.Whether you are a new college grad with work experience or a new college grad with no work experience there are basic tasks that you need to complete before the job search. Here is a short list to get you started.
1.Clean up or set your Facebook page or set it to the privacy option.
2.Set up your Linkedin account, completely. Make sure it is a recent, professional photograph, get recommendations and join groups, make friends.
3.Join a professional association in your field of expertise.
4.Contact your career services department in advance of your graduation or job search to review your resume, cover letter and complete a mock interview with honest feedback
5.Set up a Twitter Account
6.Get a business card, simple black and white, name, email, telephone and degree.
7.Join your alma maters' alumni association and participate, be a mentor, get a mentor, network.
8. Get your elevator speech together.
9. Keep a journal and reflect
10. Be persistant, the job market is tight and competitive for everyone, a college degree will open the door but you better know how to sell yourself!
The best way is to know your 5 core strengths, get the book, Now, Discover Your Strengths, best money I put out for my own career development.
By the way these tasks are good for those working toward a degree or certificate or those individuals experiencing a job transition because of downsizing, burnout or termination. Be patient, and tenacious, things will happen if you stay in the game. If you feel defeated, join a job search support group. Never let them see you sweat!
