How to Land a Job in a Recession

Just think of it. Employers are probably receiving hundreds, if not thousands, of job applications far more than what they used to get. Many employers use a college degree as a means to make the first cut. If you’re a college grad, you already have a distinct advantage over other job seekers. However, you will still need to do your homework in order to set yourself apart from the rest. Here are some tips that can help improve your chances of landing a job during a recession.

Network. Network. Network - Whether you like it or not, if you are seeking a real job right now, you have to talk to people. And, more importantly, you have to listen to what they have to say. Take advantage of events that are sponsored by clubs, associations, or groups on campus or around town. Seek out professionals in the career that interests you and solicit their advice. You never know – they may be able to connect you to someone in your field who is hiring.

Swallow hard and work for free – You probably don’t have a spouse, kids or a mortgage just yet. Those big expenses often don’t allow job seekers to explore all their options. So, open yourself up to possibly moving in with your folks or friends and taking an unpaid position, as long as it is in an industry that truly interests you. Unpaid internships sometimes turn into paid positions or lead to other opportunities. But most importantly, you will gain valuable experience in the field that interests you.

Embrace the Internet (if you haven’t already) - Search the Internet to find companies in your field that may be hiring. You can also use social networking sites like Facebook and LinkedIn to find people you may know who work at businesses that interest you. Also, identify acquaintances who may know someone who works at a company in your field and ask for an introduction. You should also research companies to prepare for interviews. And when you have an interview, spend some time on the company’s website researching the people you will meet and the company itself.

Write some blogs & read some too – A great way to brush up on an industry or possible careers is to read blogs. If you regularly read blogs and comment on them, you can begin to develop relationships with people in the industry that interests you. Believe it or not, bloggers often offer tremendous amounts of information and expertise that can help you gain a better understanding of their field. You should also start your own blog about the career you hope to work in after graduation. Use it to post research or events. Add a link to articles or information and offer a personal commentary. And, be sure to include a link to your blog on your resume. It is a good way for employers to learn more about you before an interview.

Take a good look around - Some industries continue to hire even during a recession. Consider alternative careers. Watch employment trends and think about other areas where your talents could be used. There is more than one way to put your skills to work.

Most importantly, be persistent. That job is out there, you just have to find it. Good luck!

Labels: blogging, internship, job search, moving home, networking, real-world knowledge, recession, social networking

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 10/06/2009 04:53:00 PM
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Taking Control of Your Destiny… Starting One Interview at a Time!

The job is absolutely perfect for you. So, you’ve researched, crammed, and rehearsed for hours prepping for this once-in-a-lifetime interview. You arrive early, but the interviewer shows up late. He appears disorganized. He has misplaced your resume, but forges on – claiming he doesn’t need it for the interview anyway. You, however, begin to wilt. After all, you worked hard on that resume and he should be using it as a springboard for a meaningful conversation about your skills and experience. Things aren’t getting off on the right foot, but what can you do?

Take control of the interview and blow that hiring manager away with your accomplishments, capabilities and enthusiasm. Here are a few tips:

• Be self-assured. Tell the interviewer that you can help him understand your background and accomplishments without your resume. Then, walk him through your experience and encourage him to ask questions along the way.
• Focus on the highlights. Keep your story it short and sweet, while emphasizing your unique skills and experiences. Summarize your accomplishments, highlighting only those things that you want to delve into further. This will allow you to take control of the interview.
• Don’t be a control freak. Interviewers hate long, drawn-out monologues. You have to strike a balance between letting the hiring manager ask questions and you answering them thoroughly. If you’re not being asked many questions, you are probably talking too much. And, if you are being asked a ton of questions, you are probably not talking enough.
  Encourage certain questions. You can help guide what the next question will be with your answer Leave your answer open-ended with a statement that will likely spur another question you want to be asked. For example: “I was also asked by my boss if I’d lead a special project which required a whole different skill-set.” The next logical question would be, “What was the project and what were the skills that you learned?”
• Learn from the masters. Leaders rarely directly answer the questions they are asked. Instead, they provide an answer they want to give. To do this, you must carefully respond with an interesting point that is relevant to the question that was asked. But, make sure you don’t appear as if you didn’t hear the question. In an hour interview, you must make the most of that time – but do so carefully.

When you walk into an interview, expect anything. The hiring manager may be direct with his questions, or totally scattered. But, be careful! Wide-ranging, unrelated topics can eat away at your hour. So take control, stay on message, and leave a good impression. Good luck!

Labels: Interview skills, job interview, job search, resume tips

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 9/23/2009 12:24:00 PM
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Tips & Tricks for Recent College Grads

So, you graduated in May and are still trying to figure out what you want to be when you grow up. Certainly, every situation is different. However, the number one most common problem for recent grads is that they do not know what to do with their degree. The following tricks and tips are intended to ease the pain of finding a new job…especially in this economy.

• Make smart career choices. Do your homework on the jobs you are considering. Some industries are growing. Others are shrinking. Do online research. Talk with people such as alumni, parents, professors, and your college career office. Use these sources to help you understand as much as possible about your future career.
• Be creative. There are, after all, other ways to search for a job besides the Internet. Even though search engines can help you find jobs in the comfort of your own home, it’s not the only alternative available to you. The number one way to find a job is to get out of your house and network. Talk to as many people as possible – ideally those in your field.
• Do not box yourself into only working for a huge, international company. These large firms receive tons of resumes each day and yours could easily get lost in the maze of paperwork. Consider applying for positions at smaller companies with fewer than 100 employees. This strategy might at least get your foot in the door for an interview.
• Proofread! Resumes with mistakes are absolutely unacceptable – and 99% of the time they end up in the “circular file.”
• Make sure your resume reaches the right person. If possible, avoid sending your resume to a general human resource addresses. Instead, find out the name of the hiring manager and send your resume directly to her.
• Be prepared for that all-important interview. Research the company. Learn as much as you can about the competition. Expect and prepare for all questions. Mind your manners. And, bring extra resumes.
• Be choosy. Even though your main objective is to find a job, you must ultimately choose the position that’s best for you. Carefully weigh your career goals and how the position you’re considering can help you attain them. If you determine that the job will help you gain the experience that you need to move to the top, then go for it.

Above all, be patient. There is a lot of competition out there, and not nearly as many good jobs as there used to be. But with some perseverance and hard work, you’ll eventually land on your feet. Good luck!

Labels: getting noticed, graduation, interview preparation, job search, resume writing tips

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 8/28/2009 09:49:00 AM
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Should You Consider Taking a Gap Year?

You’ve just graduated from college and you’re thinking about taking a well-deserved break in the action before embarking on your new career. Besides, the current job market pretty much stinks. If this sounds like you, consider doing something meaningful as you explore your alternatives.

A “gap year” represents a prolonged period of time between two stages of life. Taking this time off is commonplace in Europe and Australia where young adults often take a break after high school or college. Graduates are encouraged to use this period to take on meaningful experiences for personal development and exploration before moving on to the next stage of life.

But, is becoming a “gapper” a smart move for you – especially given the current state of the economy? Naturally, it depends. Consider the pros and cons of taking a break.

Pros:

• You can take this time to save money for grad school, an apartment, or a car.
• If you’re tired of school, you may not do well in a grad school program without taking a break first – which could save you money in the long run.
• You can use this time to explore careers alternatives, perhaps by interning.
• Traveling across the country or abroad will allow you to explore geographical options and other cultures.
• You can use this time to “give back” to your community by volunteering.

Cons:

• After taking some time off, you may never want to further your education.
• You could lose contact with those ever-important networking contacts you’ve accumulated while in school – such as professors and professional mentors.

Many educators believe that the increased focus, maturity and motivation gappers obtain are worth the break in the “job search” action. And, given that good jobs are few and far between right now, it might be a good time to escape from the pressure that has left many recent college grads burned out – the pressure of finding a good job in a bad recession. So if you’re inclined, take some time. This gap in your resume could work to your advantage. Good luck!

Labels: career, career prep, graduate school, independent study, internship, job search, jobs after college, the real world, unemployed

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 7/16/2009 10:57:00 AM
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Are You Willing To Work For Less?

Taking a cut in pay in order to remain employed may feel completely unfair, if not downright wrong. But in this nutty economy, you’d be wise to make every effort to have an income – any income. Sometimes, taking less money may be your only alternative. Think about it. Just how important is money to you at this stage in your career? Some might say money is everything. But is it really?

The critical question to ask yourself is which is more important to you right now, working or money? If you have a sure thing – a guaranteed position that is offering you less money than you were making – would you go for it?

As you’ve no doubt heard time and time again, it is easier to get a job when you have a job. If your bills are piling up and you’re beginning to avoid phone calls, you may want to think about taking a position, even if it pays less, in order to seize other job opportunities when they present themselves.

Given the number of people who are currently unemployed, you should expect to find serious competition for jobs at every level of management. As ridiculous as it sounds, even people working at drive-thrus have to worry about their jobs right now, especially if they continually offer poor service. These days, employees who are unwilling to take proper care of customers are finding themselves out of work. Why? Because in this economy, there are plenty of people who will take good care of customers AND work for less.

There’s no shame in accepting a job because you need the money. Lots of people these days are taking jobs that don’t really interest them simply because they need the income. So, if you’re in need of money, try to get a job doing something! After all, work is work. Consider your options, fill out those applications, and get to work! Good Luck!

Labels: job search, recession, salary negotiation, unemployed

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 6/29/2009 09:58:00 AM
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Recession Got You Down?

While my graduation date looms over my head [6 months and 1 day-- not that I'm counting], I am definitely worried about what my future career path will entail. Will it even be a career path, or more of a string of part-time jobs until I get settled into something deeper? Will I be happy working within the field I've studied for the past four years, or will I find that it just isn't for me?

Labels: job search, recession

Posted by Amanda on 6/11/2009 05:22:00 PM
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Career tips for out-of-work college grads

I came across a great article on Wallet Pop that offers career tips & strategies for those unfortunate college grads (like myself) that have yet to land a job. Blogger, Farnoosh Torabi, offers some 'no-frill' alternatives to grad school:

1. Be an intern
2. Volunteer
3. Move home with the folks
4. Go abroad
5. Keep your online profile updated
6. Enjoy the time off!

To supplement this list, Career Coach, Lee E. Miller says to look for jobs in growth fields that are "not as affected by the recession" for example: education, health care, "green" technology, government and accounting.

Another viable option is to work with a recruiter through a staffing or "temp" agency. Not only can a recruiter help you to get placed in a temp position but that temp job could potentially result in a permanent, full time position. Better yet, staffing companies like Spherion do not charge employees for using the service and all of the fees are paid by the hiring client company. College Recruiter provided some great insight on what entry level workers should know when working with a recruiter.

Happy hunting~

Labels: job hunt, job search, real-world knowledge, recession, recruiter

Posted by Melissa on 5/04/2009 12:58:00 PM
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Which College Grads Will Get Hired?

Thanks for info, Seymour...

I just read an article on BullseyeResumes Blog called, Which College Graduates from the Class of 2009 Will Get Hired... and their answer?

"Simple. It is those college graduates in the Class of 2009 who are willing to think outside of the box, be creative, be flexible and execute an effective job search strategy."

There are three ways to start doing that:
1. Look and go where the jobs are.
2. Think beyond your college major.
3. Remember your "on-land" job search strategy.

Sounds like good advice to me... Cheers!

Labels: almost done, job hunt, job search, real-world knowledge

Posted by Melissa on 4/06/2009 05:12:00 PM
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Does College Really Prepare You For The Real World?

Yikes! You’ve got the diploma in your hand and that first job lined up – and you begin to wonder if all those thousands of dollars spent on tuition and books truly readied you for the working world. After all, some say that the “real world” is cold and harsh, where second chances are rarely offered, deadlines are hardly ever extended, and the concept of “fairness” doesn’t exist. It is rumored to be a barren, desolate place where work days actually begin at eight in the morning and the coffee? Well, it just plain stinks.

So after enduring courses in astronomy, memorizing little known facts about ancient philosophers, and carefully planning your class schedules (some that no doubt included three day weekends and nothing before 11 am), was your college education relevant to what you’ll be doing and experiencing in the workplace going forward?

Many times students end up pursuing careers that are not even related to their majors. So if what you learned in college does not directly apply to the specific job you’ll be performing, don’t freak out – not all has been lost. The fact is much of what you learned in college outside of the classroom has prepared you quite well for navigating workplace culture — which is just as important as the work itself.

Take, for example, the time management skills you’ve acquired. While tending to your studies at school, you’ve had to complete projects and meet deadlines as you balanced a job, parties, and hang time at your favorite Internet café. You’ve learned to text during classes and listen to your Ipod while cramming for an exam in the library. This is called “multi-tasking” and it is something you’ll be required to do pretty much all day long. You also have acquired teamwork capabilities by working on group projects in college – as painful as some of them might have been. And, just think about that professional network you’ve built without even knowing it. Your connections with professors and other students can potentially be quite helpful when it comes to landing a job in the future. Yes, a little Facebook each day is a good thing…

Most importantly, your college experience has prepared you well for managing day-to-day responsibilities like being punctual, balancing a checking account, doing laundry and going grocery shopping on a budget. You’ve gained a sense of independence that will directly translate to your work experience where you will be expected to finish a task (without being micro-managed) and finish it well.

Yes, college educates you in ways that go beyond what you learned in the classroom. But are you really ready for the real world? The answer is yes. Definitely.

Good luck!

Labels: almost done, career, hiring criteria, job hunt, job search, networking, real-world knowledge, the future, the real world

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 4/06/2009 04:42:00 PM
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Collect Diploma, Next Step: Paycheck

Applying for your first post-graduation job can be an exciting and intense time. You may seek out multiple positions in a variety of fields, or prioritize one main job and look for the right company fit.

Some things to keep in mind as you go out into the applicant pool include maintaining a positive attitude, allowing your skills to shine both in person and on your resume and consider the old adage: if at first you don't succeed, try, try again.

There's nothing wrong with not getting a follow-up interview on your first try. Many graduates lack experience with interviewing for full-time positions and struggle to stand out the first time around. Just keep at it and know that you will end up at a company not only that you work for, but that works for you!

Labels: career prep, interview preparation, job search

Posted by Amanda on 3/26/2009 11:08:00 PM
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Don't Call Me… I'll Call You: Why Recruiters Aren't Calling and How to Fix That!

Labels: job hunt, job search, job search tool, real-world knowledge, recruiter, resume tips, resume writing tips

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 2/20/2009 01:09:00 PM
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Yeah, you completed your degree. Whaddaya want, a gold star?

These days, successfully completing any college degree is in itself no small feat. If you think you're going to do this and find a job immediately after graduation, well, you're just asking for miracles -- and those are in short supply, especially under today's wild economic conditions. Don't think you'll be able to strut into an office of your choosing with nothing but an undeserved sense of entitlement and a quarter-page resume and be able to land a job. Unfortunately for all of us, that's not how the game works. A good resume, a good worth ethic, and good luck are all required in roughly equal measure in order for you to find career success once school's out. Once these three things converge, more and more doors will open for you -- and that sense of entitlement will become a bit more deserved. 

Labels: job search, resume tips, work ethic

Posted by Brian on 1/24/2009 09:34:00 AM
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When at first you don't succeed, ask, ask around

When preparing for a job interview, people often overlook the basic but necessary step of researching their position and prospective employer. This is unfortunate, because countless job seekers are shot down due to their lack of knowledge or preparedness regarding things that, for the most part, are a five-minute Google search away. Oh well - their loss is your gain. Run a search for your employer and the position you've applied for and get to know the lay of the land. If what you find leads you to more specific questions, try contacting the company, its HR staff, or even current employees for the information you need. Nine times out of ten, they'll be more than happy to help out - and remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question, so ask away. Use these resources to their full potential, and you'll have that job in no time! 

Labels: job interview, job search, research

Posted by Brian on 12/25/2008 06:02:00 PM
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We Want You As a New Recruit!

Recruiters are resources that often times do not get the appreciation or attention they deserve. These people work hard to find positions for prospective employees and serve as an excellent go-between for the company and job applicants.

Though I personally have never used the services of a recruiter, I know that as my college graduation date looms, I will be ready and willing to work with one. Not only will job hunting become less stressful, but I will also be able to focus my talents and skills into the most productive way possible... two heads are better than one, indeed and having a recruiter go to bat for me at a company will surely be of great help.

More than anything, I look forward to the advice and knowledge that a recruiter will pass on to me. Their insider information and wisdom will serve as an invaluable tool, should I land an interview with a particular company. Knowing that I can have the power of a recruiter on my side will certainly make graduation a little less scary!

Labels: career prep, job search, recruiter

Posted by Amanda on 12/25/2008 05:43:00 PM
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Get the word out about recruiters!

These days, everybody's clamoring for a job, but only a lucky few are actually landing them. The next time your buddy picks your brain for job opportunities, direct him to a recruiter. They're a wonderful and unfortunately underutilized tool that can get someone out of a jam and into the dough faster than a lot of other, more commonly-used job search methods. Recruiters need to put food on the table, too - give them some business! 

Labels: job search, recruiter

Posted by Brian on 12/22/2008 02:16:00 AM
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Social Networking: Do’s and Don’ts

Social networking sites have become a popular form of communication for people you have met at various times throughout your life. They have also become an important tool in making (and keeping) connections with current and former employers and co-workers. Those connections are imperative to your job search.

Networking is a must when embarking on a job search. With increased competitiveness in the job market, an entirely new set of challenges have been presented to job seekers. A job seeker must make his/her resume accessible to as many people possible. This can be accomplished by utilizing resume database sites, responding to classified ads and utilizing social networking sites. The advantages to social networking sites are vast, if and only if, used correctly. To obtain the maximum benefits of this online environment, it is important to know the Do’s and Don’ts of social networking.

There are many ways to keep your profile safe from the “preying” eye. Fortunately for all of us, there are these great tools called privacy settings. From there you can easily choose the privacy level that best suits your needs. This will help you to differentiate between your personal and business profile. It is always important to remember that the World Wide Web is an enormous place and you never know who may be looking at your profiles—so please be discrete and responsible about anything that you or anyone else posts to your profile.

You should also be careful about who you friend request and who you accept as a friend. It’s like your mom always told you, “birds of a feather flock together”. The friends that you keep are a direct reflection of who you are as a person. More likely than not, a prospective employer may use LinkedIn or Facebook as a tool when making the decision of hiring you or any one of your competitors. Their purpose is to scrutinize you from every possible angle, so Beware!

Social networking websites can often be a double-edged sword if not used properly. Taking these simple steps can ensure that your profile will be working for you and not against you. It also ensures that future employers/colleagues will only see the best parts of who you are. You’d be surprised how hiding or “de-tagging” incriminating, inappropriate pictures from your profile can work wonders for your image.

Also, don’t forget to take total advantage of the information sections of your profile. Use this space to list your talents, hobbies and any previous work experience you have had – minus the reining title of ‘Beer Pong Champion’. By simply using a little discretion and a little creative flare you’ll put your best foot forward and hopefully the job offers will come pouring in!

Good luck!

Labels: damage control, job search, job search tool, social networking, social networking websites

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 12/05/2008 09:53:00 AM
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I’m Going to Graduate… Now What?

Your college days are quickly coming to an end. You are about to face the real world for the first time. In other words, you’re going to need a real job— pretty scary, huh? If you’re wondering what to do next, you’re not alone. Millions of new grads have been faced with this same exact situation. They survived, and I promise, you will too! Nonetheless, there are things that can be done in preparation to help make your transition into the working world a little less jolting.

Like most grads, I’m sure you’re thinking that a great resume is going to take you places. While that’s true for the most part, it’s the substance (not the fluff) that determines the greatness of a resume. These days the job market is intense, so you’ll need to pull out all of the stops in order to land the job of your dreams, or at least one that’s worth bragging about. But, before you even think about writing your resume, make it your ambition to get as much experience as possible. That way, you’ll have something impressive to put on that fresh new resume of yours.

Internships, temp jobs and volunteer work are all great ways to rack up experience. Plus, you’ll gain an insider perspective in the field that you want to work in—something invaluable to finding career happiness. It also gives you the opportunity to network with other professionals in your prospective field. Networking is critical. It means getting your name out there and making connections with people who can assist or influence your job search. The right contact could be your golden ticket to a sought-after career opportunity that may otherwise not exist.

As you gain experience, you’ll find out what you like to do and what you’d rather do without. This is an important part of determining what career path will suit you best. While your degree will set you in a definite direction, don’t overlook jobs that play to your natural talents, interests and abilities. A 40-hour work week is tough enough, so make sure it’s a job you that you don’t mind doing or better yet, that you actually like.

Once you’ve got some experience and a grip on what jobs appeal to you, it’s time to write your resume. Unlike those lengthy research papers you’ve become so familiar with, a good resume should be short, sweet and to the point. It should provide an employer a brief synopsis of your education, work experience, skills and achievements. Since you are new to the workforce, it should not exceed one page in length, unless your experience merits it.

Next, you’ll want to write a smooth cover letter. Your cover letter functions as a prelude to your resume, offering you a platform to pitch yourself to prospective employers. It should include a personal introduction, indicate the position you’re applying for, express interest in the company, and expand upon (not just repeat) the skills and experience that make you the best candidate for the job. Finally, your cover letter should fit nicely on one page with ample margin space.

Once your resume and cover letter are complete, it’s time to make your debut to the job market. There are a number of ways to do that—from uploading your resume to job boards and applying to online job postings, to targeting specific employer Web sites and applying to posted positions or e-mailing your resume to their HR department. While it may be tempting to send out a blanket distribution of your resume, it’s not wise. Instead, research each company and job description. Then, modify your resume and cover letter to appeal to each position.

Now that you are faced with the quickly approaching end to your college career, it’s time to apply what you learned to the workplace. Make it count. Your career is a blank slate. It can be everything you want it to be, it’s all up to you. So, take this information and get experience, network, write your resume, prepare a cover letter, post it to job boards and e-mail it to employers. Go out there and make it happen! Good luck!

Labels: almost done, college, college experience, first job, internship, job search, job search tool, jobs after college, resume tips, the real world, transition

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 11/21/2008 09:53:00 AM
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New Skool versus Old Skool

New Skool vs. Old Skool - the ever-present battle between digitalized and paper resumes. What to do? The answer is simple: do every option available to help you in your job search. There are advantages to both digital and traditional resumes. This is what some might call and win-win scenario. Your chances for landing the job have just doubled and your potential employer could notice something previously overlooked.

Of course, compiling a strong digital resume/portfolio is a must. Today’s world is a digital jungle and the job market is no different. The job market is fiercely competitive and all bases must be covered in order to ensure your chances at finding the job of your dreams. A digital portfolio allows you the opportunity to store reference letters and samplings of previous work. You can include pictures, videos and any other materials that may bring your portfolio to that next level.

Many people use recruiting websites to assist in their job search. These websites make your resume available to thousands of potential employers. Digitalized copies of your resume are necessary for any resume-database websites that you find yourself using. Utilizing these tools are immensely helpful in the job search, but only if you understand and use them properly. These websites implement the use of keywords. Employers will enter keywords for skills and qualities they are looking for in applicants. Making your digital resume, keyword-friendly is extremely important.

Be sure to maximize your digital resumes searchability. There are a few easy ways to do this. Your professional areas of expertise and their synonyms should be keywords spread evenly throughout your resume. Be very specific—for instance, if you are fluent in more than one language, you may consider having the word multilingual appear in your resume, as well as the languages you are fluent in. Similarly is you have earned an M.A. you may consider using the words Master of Arts as well as the abbreviation in the education section of your resume. A resume that optimizes keywords does not have to be separate from your traditional resume. The traditional resume and keyword-optimized resume can be one and the same. With a bit of extra effort, your resume can be as efficient as possible.

Paper resumes are advantageous because they appeal to your potential employers eyes rather than a computer database. You have the opportunity to choose thick, impressive-feeling paper. The paper needs to be kept simple, professional and white in color. Sending a hard copy of your resume can do nothing but improve your chances of getting the job. When you include both a traditional and digital resume in your portfolio this shows your potential employer your dedication to the job finding process. By showing your potential employer your dedication to the job hunt, you give them a glimpse into the dedication you will put into all aspects of your life.

Labels: digital resume, job search, job search tool, traditional resume

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 10/31/2008 02:40:00 PM
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It’s not what you know, it’s who you know...

Labels: facebook, job search, job search tool, linkedin, networking, social networking

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 10/24/2008 11:02:00 AM
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Why Employ a Recruiter?

When I first moved out of my parents’ home and into my own apartment, I thought I had made it. I was on my own at last, away from prying eyes and ears of my over-involved family. My friends could come and go as they pleased, and the décor could be as vulgar as my young, brash heart dared to allow. For six months, I lived it up and as the evenings gradually became my mornings; my humble abode began to resemble a toxic waste dump! I came to the realization that living under my own auspices wasn’t going to work unless a few drastic changes were made. I had my folks step in, and now, my floors are swept, my bed is made, and I’ve figured out that doing dishes is a great way to create counter space.

The moral of my story? It’s always good to have people with a little more experience at this whole “life” thing on your side. As a recent high school graduate, memories of your first date, first day of high school, and your first all-nighter are probably fresh enough in your mind for you to appreciate how uniquely harrowing each of these experiences were. Imagine how much more unpleasant these transitional periods would have been without a parent, friend, or significant other helping you to pull through. Scary thought, eh?

Your next big step – getting your career started – looms ahead, and going into your job search unassisted won’t just be unpleasant – it could be an absolute nightmare! Fortunately, with the help of a recruiter, you’ll sleep a little easier at night. When the going gets tough, recruiters can be your best ally, offering advice on everything from how to format your cover letter to providing insight to the job landscape. They can also help you determine what your skill set is and where to best apply it – think a more sophisticated version of that career aptitude test you may have taken in high school. Once you’ve set your sights on a particular type of job, a recruiter can guide you to the market that best suits your needs, ensuring that no matter how demanding a profession you enter, you’ll be reasonably within your comfort zone.

The perilous journey to gainful, fulfilling employment has bested many a recent graduate. However, armed with a good recruiter, you’ll likely reach your destination unscathed. As for the others – they can move back in with their parents.

Labels: first job, job search, jobs after college, recruiter, transition

Posted by Seymour Jobs on 10/17/2008 11:27:00 AM
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Job Search Strategies for College Students

I read a great post on BullsEyeResumes blog discussing job search strategies for college students. Enjoy!

Finding a Job In this Recession

With mounting job losses on Wall Street college students, Class of 2009 primarily, might be thinking about what may be in store for them next spring. Bill Carson, director of the Center for Career Development at Morgan State University, offers these tips for a successful job search in a recession. (Read the complete article here)

- Use all the campus resources available to you. The college career center staff can share resume writing tips, interview preparation help and just general job search resources.
- Explore global careers and overseas job options. Not all foreign opportunities require employees to be proficient in a foreign language.
- Expand your network. Make sure to reach out to family members, prior employers and even alumni of your university.
- Sign up for professional associations. Many professional associations have student rates that are an absolute bargain. Take advantage of them while in school.
- Sharpen your interview skills. Get some help with behavioral interviews and panel interviews.
- Go government. Look for federal and state employment opportunities.
- Follow up on all the leads you receive.
- Be careful when preparing your resume and job search documents.

In a tight economy, expect that a successful job search might take up to a year. Start now!

Labels: job search, job search tool, jobs after college

Posted by Melissa on 10/15/2008 05:26:00 PM
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glassdoor provides students w/ company sneak peaks

I just read a great post on Cheezhead's blog outlining a new resource thats been made available for active job-seeking college students.

Glassdoor a workplace community that encourages users to leave information about salary, perks, and advice about companies, is opening their doors to students and career service professionals.

With a valid .edu email account, students will be allowed free access for one year to Glassdoor’s site with the ability to access salary details and company reviews for more than 11,000 potential employers in 80 countries.

To read more: glassdoor provides students w/ company sneak peaks
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Labels: job search, job search tool, jobs after college

Posted by Melissa on 10/14/2008 10:18:00 AM
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Social Networking/Bookmarking

One of my classmates had me check her facebook through-and-through to make sure she didn't have anything offensive or inappropriate as she is starting her job search.

As I was looking, it struck me that there is no way you can have a completely clean blog/social networking site/social bookmarking site. You will always have something that reflects your politics and/or beliefs, and there is bound to be someone who doesn't agree.

I think, instead of people deleting their pages or trying to hide behind a privacy block, they should consider how they portray themselves, meaning the language used and the sources to back up your argument.

Future employers who come across a well-designed, well thought-out blog would end up drawing a more positive impression than if you have no site at all.

As our generation becomes more educated and tech savvy, few people will believe we are not plugged into myspace, facebook, linked in, etc., and a lack of an internet presence could end up detrimental, especially in a field like mine where we must all master the wave of communication trends.

Labels: blogging, facebook, job search, myspace, social networking

Posted by Christina on 11/27/2007 03:54:00 PM
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Graduation and Jobs

I went to register my classes for next semester, and it hit me. This is the last time I will be registering for classes. May 8, I will proudly walk across the stage to pick up my diploma, and then it's back to the "real world" again.

Going through school again really helps you hone down certain things that are important to look for in a job search. I know I do not want to commute very far (fortunately there are alot of PR options close to me,) I would rather work for an organization that values sustainability if possible, and I need growth options and a challenge.

The other thing that I realize is that I want to take a vacation right after graduation. I didn't take a real vacation after undergrad, and I wish I had. I want to walk into my new job fresh, happy and relaxed, rather than stressed out and exhausted from my finals.

Labels: graduation, job search, jobs

Posted by Christina on 11/06/2007 02:53:00 PM
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