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If your college graduation is approaching, it’s time for you to start working on your post-graduate career. Since you might find yourself facing some stiff competition from fellow graduates, make sure that you’re ahead of the game when it comes to knowing how to find and land a coveted position.
1. Make the Most of an Internship
Take the initiative to ask for challenging tasks to perform. Showing the company that you’re willing to go above and beyond will make a lasting impression. Gather information on the company’s hiring process, and ask about entry-level positions that are available.
2. Take Advantage of Networking Opportunities
Connecting with people in the industries you’re interested in can open several doors for you. If you don’t know anyone, reach out to professionals through social media websites. Ask friends and family members if they can get you in touch with people who work in your field.
3. Customize Your Resume
Make sure your resume is ideal for each position you apply for. You should change it just enough to emphasize the skills and experience that a particular position requires. If you don’t have any work experience, list your education first with any achievements that are relevant to the position you’re interested in.
4. Create a Strong Cover Letter
Write a cover letter that shows employers why you’re the best fit for the job. Don’t restate the information that’s on your resume. Your cover letter gives you a chance to let your personality shine through and convince potential employers to contact you for an interview.
5. Start Your Search Early
Begin scouring job sites before you graduate since it might take awhile for you to find a permanent position. Keep your eyes open for career opportunities with companies that you’re interested in working for. Apply for any positions that appeal to you even when you’re still in school. Keep in mind that it might be weeks or even months before you get a response.
6. Aim High
Send your resume and cover letter for positions that you’re interested in even if you don’t meet the requirements listed in the job posting. If you’re certain that you can handle the job, focus on preparing an impressive cover letter that will persuade the company to consider you.
7. Hold Mock Interviews
Prepare for your interview by doing mock versions. Pretend that you’re meeting with a potential employer, and practice answering questions that might come up. Focus on some of the more difficult questions you might be asked so that you can answer them easily and with confidence during the actual interview.
8. Dress to Impress
Choose your interview outfit carefully. No matter what type of position you’re going after, make sure you look professional and well-groomed. This helps convince employers that you take your career seriously.
9. Be Confident
Speak with confidence and smile often during your interview even if you’re feeling nervous. Interviews give employers a chance to see how well you would fit in with the company. Be professional and friendly so that you create a strong positive impression.
10. Show Professional Courtesy
Send a thank-you note to the person who conducted your interview. You can either send it as an email a couple of days later or send a handwritten note in the mail the day after your interview.
Building your career won’t happen overnight, but following these tips will give you a head start. You’ll know the best ways to look for jobs and impress potential employers which gives you a definite advantage over your fellow job seekers.
Britta Jones writes full-time for education blogs nationwide. She writes for www.marylhurst.edu where you can find out more about mba degrees online.
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