3 Tips for Job Seeking New Grads

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I'm Ken Lear, a business professional with expertise in leadership, management, and entrepreneurship.

Getting a first job can be a lot of work, especially if you have never worked before. In a competitive economy, sometimes it can seem tempting to take the first job that comes your way, even if you lack interest in it. But new job seekers have more control over their situation than they might realize. Below are some things to keep in mind during any job search:

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Apply for the Right Jobs

Don’t waste time applying for positions that are not right for you; instead use your time and energy to personalize and target the jobs you have a chance to land and are interested in. Study a job description and highlight the parts that you feel describe you to see if it is a good fit.

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Create and Cultivate a Professional Online Presence

Over 89% of companies report they will use social networks as part of their hiring plans this year. Many recruiters utilize LinkedIn to scout out and recruit new employees. Employers will also scan Twitter, Facebook and any other social presence job seekers have to screen and see if they are a good fit for the company. Consider creating and maintaining your own professional website so you can curate what companies are seeing. Always delete anything from social media that you wouldn’t want an employer to see. But you have to maintain your online presence, update your status, reach out to people you want to know and demonstrate your expertise online.

Network in Person

Join professional organizations and attend events where you can meet prospective hiring managers and mentors. The more people you can meet and impress in person, the more likely someone is to remember you and refer you for an opportunity.