The Learning Curve of Graduate to Employed

As our Come Recommended intern team wraps up its last week, I find the most striking aspect of this job has been just how much I’ve learned about finding employment. Every day in my internship with Come Recommended, I’ve learned something new. Here are some of the most important aspects of finding your transition from college to employment that I’ve picked up:

Finding a job after college is a marathon not a sprint. The journey from classroom to desk will take time, and you need to take care and patience lest you burn out before you begin. The economy could be better, but don’t get discouraged – you will find a job.

Individualize your cover letters and tailor your resumes. With mass job search websites, the temptation to send out 30 identical resumes with the touch of a button is tempting, but there are just so many people like you doing the same. Before you send out an application, research the company, find what they are looking for in a candidate and use those same keywords in your resume. Also, although basic, proofread and edit, because a lot of applicants fail to.

Network, network, network. The fact of the matter is, the vast majority of jobs are found through networking. Use social networks sites like Come Recommended and find your former co-workers, employers, alumni and even those who have similar professional interests. Use the internet to your advantage by creating the foundations of your professional network.

Reach out and stay connected. Stay connected with former coworkers and employers – chances are these connections will continue to advance your career track. More importantly, take the initiative and create new connections with whatever you can. Even an information interview is a means of networking – the particular employer may not be hiring today, but when they are, you have a personal connection to reach out to.

Consider different opportunities. If you’re currently stuck between college and work, stay busy. Volunteer work experience or part time internships are a terrific way to develop leadership skills and work experience that will continue to push your resume to the top of the pile. Moreover, consider working for a small company. They may lack name recognition, but the amount of experience gained, professional growth and networking with your bosses and upper management are so much greater than finding yourself in a large corporation.