You did it. You finally walked across that stage in a goofy looking hat, wrapped your fingers around that diploma, and sprinted off your college campus. Now, you’re ready to take that running leap into the “real world” and get started with the career you’ve been working toward your entire life.
But, not so fast! Landing a job right out of college isn’t as easy as you’d like to think. In fact, it’s probably going to require some serious elbow grease and legwork on your end.
You already know you’re going to be spending hours filling out application after application—that’s a given. However, there are plenty of other things you can do as a recent grad in order to boost your professional reputation and increase your chances of landing a job as soon as possible.
Curious? Here are the top five things that should be on your to-do list.
1. Clean Up Your Social Media Profiles
What’s one of the first things recruiters and hiring managers do when they see your resume slide across their desk? Chances are, they look you up on social media.
You absolutely do not want them to be welcomed with whiny posts complaining about your old boss or sloppy photos of you winning a beer pong competition. I’m sure it was a shining moment in your college career—but it doesn’t make a great first impression when it comes to hiring decisions.
So, go through all of your existing social media accounts and clean them up. Remove any posts or photos that could be even remotely incriminating or offensive. Here’s some social media advice for you to live by: if you wouldn’t want your grandma to see it, you probably shouldn’t post it.
2. Dust Off Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile
Next up, it’s time to polish up the materials specifically related to your career. After all, they’re going to have a lot of eyeballs on them when you’re actively searching for jobs.
Start with your resume. Go through it with a fine-tooth comb and ensure that all of the information is current and that it’s completely free of any typos or errors. Also, identify any areas where it could be improved. Remember, the stronger your resume, the more likely you are to get called in for those coveted interviews.
Next, turn your attention to your LinkedIn profile. If you don’t already have one, it’s time to set one up. Hiring managers will definitely look for it. If you do have one? Make sure your profile picture is professional and clearly shows your face and then double-check that your education information and previous job descriptions are updated. Finally, craft a polished and personality-filled summary. It’s your chance to expand on those cut and dried facts that are already included in your resume!
3. Schedule Informational Interviews
What’s one of the things that’s the most frustrating about the job hunting and interview process? You feel like you have absolutely no control over what happens. You simply submit your information and cross your fingers that you hear back about an interview.
However, with informational interviews, the ball is in your court. Reach out to a few different professionals that you admire via email or LinkedIn to see if you could get together for a cup of coffee. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, as well as learn more about a particular company or industry you’re interested in. Plus, an expanded network is never a bad thing—you never know what could happen!
4. Network, Network, Network
Speaking of an expanded web of professional contacts, networking needs to be toward the top of your priority list after graduating. Meeting new contacts is your chance to get connected with people who could benefit your job search, as well as potentially help you get your foot in the door for some new opportunities.
Volunteer with a local shelter. Attend a community networking event. Join a professional association or organization. Put yourself out there and make an effort to expand your group of connections. It definitely can’t hurt!
5. Know Your Career Goals
Finally, it’s important to know what you want. “Well, I want a job,” you’re probably thinking right now. But, you need to dig a little deeper than that.
Why? Chances are, you don’t just want a job. You want a job in a specific field or industry. You want a position that makes you feel fulfilled and satisfied. Or, maybe you want experience in order to get to the next rung of the career ladder.
I know, it feels like your main priority should be getting just any job. And, sometimes financial factors force you to do just that. But, if you have the ability, you should take the time to sit down and outline your short-term and long-term career goals and then base your job search decision on those. It’ll help you to ensure your first job is a step in the right direction—and not just a hasty decision made out of desperation.
Graduating college is undoubtedly an exciting time. But, entering your job hunt likely isn’t quite as exciting. In fact, it can feel downright overwhelming at times. Don’t panic yet! Remember these five tips, and you’ll be well on your way to success.
