Recent college graduates have all heard the standard “do’s and don’ts” of applying for jobs.
Reminders like arriving early to an interview and keeping a clean social media presence are pounded into college students’ minds. We have all heard to follow up after an application, dress professionally and to send a thank-you note.
But is it enough?
Sure, some fortunate graduates will promptly find a job within a few weeks of graduation by simply following the regular protocol. Unfortunately, other recent graduates might not find a great job before Memorial Day weekend. In fact, many are still looking by the time Labor Day weekend arrives.
One difficult part of transitioning into life after college is realizing there is no longer a schedule for success.
Recent graduates are accustomed to a lifestyle where the plan for the end goal is completely mapped out. Universities provide students with an exact plan for graduation, a schedule of fees, course syllabuses and even an academic advisor to make sure everything is on track. It’s easy to embrace that type of sequential mentality after living in it for four years. College students become conditioned into thinking everything must go according to plan to achieve a goal.
Unfortunately, the job application process doesn’t come with a blueprint. The perfect job for you may not be available the week after graduation. It may not even be present in the next six months.
Take opportunities. A job opportunity may not present itself right away, but a good internship might. Unpaid internships aren’t exactly ideal; however, the experience is priceless. If it means taking on a temporary part-time job, then so be it. An applicant with a strong internship or related volunteer work post-graduation on his or her resume is going to come across as more than a recent graduate just looking for a paycheck to an employer.
Some companies – especially nonprofits – might even work with your schedule to create a part-time program.
On the other hand, don’t get so caught up in finding a job to fulfill your passion. There’s nothing wrong with doing something you love for a living, but it’s not always an option for everyone. Instead of searching for a specific niche, consider a position where you can channel similar traits. For example, someone who enjoys high-endurance sports may not find a career in or related to the athletic industry, but their drive and perseverance could translate well into a sales position. An individual who is passionate about cooking or photography can channel their creative mind into a marketing or PR position.
Another suggestion to keep in mind is that the employer reviewing your application is a human, too. All too often, applicants forget that there is an actual person reviewing your materials submitted online. It’s easy for job seekers to lose the personal touch after applying for several positions.
Considering the job application process from the employer’s perspective can help applicants with their approach to finding a job.
One consideration is the employer’s schedule. Hiring managers are busy, and filling a position is probably only a small fraction of their job responsibilities. A long, impersonal cover letter is not the most convenient or favorable message to read.
Along with their busy day, keep in mind that employers have a personality, too.
Managers and interviewers are proud of their company – this is especially true with small business owners. Applicants with a generic, impersonal cover letter probably won’t strike an employer as an amazing new addition to the team. A cover letter that is clearly written to that specific company will appear more sincere and show that they are more interested in finding a place on that team, instead of finding any job.
The last suggestion is not to feel discouraged. Finding a job is tough, but it’s also great practice for living in the “real world.” Keep your head up, utilize your resources, and an opportunity may come up when you least expect it.
