Are you setting yourself up for success on your job search? Consider the Savvy Job Search Checklist below to give you a head start.
- Commit to getting a job.
Obtaining any job is wonderful for so many reasons. You gain independence, a paycheck, references, experience, and a track record. In other words, while shelving books, making photocopies, or doing data entry may not seem very beneficial, entry level jobs are huge in terms of the currency of employability. A resume that has two years of showing up day in and day out for a job is stronger than one that has two years of blank space because you’ve been waiting for the perfect position.
- Pick a job type or field that you will focus on 100%.
This is just a place to start. It does not have to be perfect. You will have more success at landing a job when you are consistent with your message instead of running in twenty different directions. Getting a foot in the door to the world of work is the goal here. Once you are in you will have a greater capability to maneuver into exactly what you want.
- Clean up your social media presence.
Employers are paying attention to Facebook and other social networking sites. Consider if some old posts or pictures might need to be deleted in favor of a more professional appearance.
- Line up your references.
Start thinking about who will be a good reference for you. Professors, bosses, supervisors, or coworkers are all possibilities. If you feel like this is an area that is lacking for you then start chatting up your favorite professors, volunteering, or participating in a community organization. The goal is to obtain someone who knows you well enough to vouch for you.
- Tell the people what you want.
People know that recent graduates are embarking on their careers. They are interested to hear your plans. This is a great opportunity to fill them in on what you are specifically looking for. You never know who might have a connection in the field you are interested in. Spend some time crafting an answer to the ‘What’s next for you’ genre of question. Be clear, consistent, and enthusiastic.
- Create a confidence mindset.
It can be intimidating applying and interviewing for jobs that are a step beyond what you’ve done before. You simply will not know as much as someone who has been doing the job for twenty years. However, you can boost your confidence by considering all the things that you have successfully accomplished in your life. Make a list of 50 of these things. This is for your eyes only. It can range from completing a paper or acing a test to summer jobs or extracurriculars. These items will not necessarily go on your resume, but they will give you a mental boost.
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