Welcome to the Real World: Tips for Getting Your First Job

Ok, so you’ve got that fresh, new diploma or degree in hand. You’ve celebrated your accomplishment with family and friends and taken the post-graduation cruise. What’s next? Now that the party is over, it’s time to put that shiny piece of paper to use and get a job. This is actually where the hard work begins. Finding your first job can be more difficult than any exam that you’ve ever taken.

However, with the proper tools and planning, finding your first job can be less painful than you originally expected. The following are steps that can put you on the path to finding your first professional job:

1. Set your direction – Believe it or not, even after several years of school, you still may not know exactly what type of job you are looking for. In order to determine your goals, take stock of your strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. This knowledge will help build confidence, improve your ability to sell yourself and assist you in determining your direction and game plan.
2. Do more homework – After graduation, you thought homework would be a thing of the past right? Wrong! Research the industries and companies that interest you to learn about their products, services, locations, growth and any other trends, news or issues surrounding them. Focus your efforts on those industries and companies that interest you and expand the list as you continue your research.
3. Get your tools ready – The necessary tools for an effective job search are the resume and cover letter. Take time to develop a resume and cover letter that effectively communicates your experience and skills and that makes you stand out from the rest.
4. Network – You know the saying – “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” Be sure to take advantage of any resources that you might have. Family, friends, career placement agencies or trade associations can all play a vital role in helping you land your first job. Develop a contact list of everyone you know that could assist you and inform them of what you are looking to achieve.
5. Be professional – if you want to join the professional world, obviously you have to present yourself professionally.
• Dress appropriately for all interviews and networking opportunities. An investment in a conservative business suit is one of the best investments you will ever make
• Practice answering tough questions before taking an interview
• Follow up all meetings with thank you letters
• Be sure that your voicemail messages and e-mail addresses are professional
6. Keep the faith – Be persistent in your search and don’t take rejection personally. Continue to send resumes and covers letters to companies that interest you, even if they currently don’t have open positions.
7. Don’t be afraid to start at the bottom – Simply put, obtaining a lower-level position is better than nothing. It will help you pay the rent and better yet, give you experience that will pay dividends later in your career. Showing that you are willing to “pay your dues” will demonstrate that you are a team player and help you in the future.