Being Fresh Out of School and Unemployed: Strategies for Jumpstarting Your Career

As a recent graduate, there are a lot of things to worry about. Aside from the student loans, there is the challenge of finding a job in a competitive market. It can be especially difficult for those with degrees that are not in demand. In fact, the Accenture Strategy 2015 US College Graduate Employment Study revealed that a STEM degree is preferred by employers. However, with some hard work, creativity, and willingness to push on, recent graduates can overcome these challenges and jumpstart their careers. Here are some strategies to help:

1. Set up a LinkedIn account and mind your manners on other social media websites

LinkedIn is a professional platform used by job seekers, recruiters, and entrepreneurs to establish a strong professional network. It is important to learn the best way to make your profile effective by using the right keywords and writing a great summary. Be sure to exhibit good online etiquette on all your social media accounts as recruiters will definitely search you online.

2. Start freelancing to get used to working and earn some initial money

Freelancing is a good way to acquire some work experience and earn a bit of money while job hunting. With many websites available, finding clients and offering services are made easy. It can also turn into something bigger and better.

3. Prepare a tailored resume for each job you apply to

Creating an all-encompassing “master resume” is important, but crafting tailored resumes for each job is crucial to showcase your skills and qualifications which match the job description. Don’t forget to write a new cover letter for each application.

4. Start reading books on business, body language, human dynamics and negotiation

Staying updated with current events and changes in the industry through reading books will help you a lot. Learning about the business world, human psychology, and communication skills can benefit you in understanding the people around you and to resolve conflicts effectively.

5. Expand your technology-related skill sets

To be competitive in the job market, it is essential to be familiar with the latest technology. Aside from using the MS Office suite and maintaining professional-looking social media profiles, mastering the type of software used in your industry, having some basic computer maintenance skills, being familiar with some of the latest tech gadgets, and having working knowledge of cloud-based services is necessary. Pursue more complicated skills, like learning HTML, WordPress, and digital marketing, to broaden your skill set.

6. Think about long-term progress

When you build your career, it is important to think long-term. Build a skill set that can be used in several similar jobs so that switching jobs will be easier. Be persistent in your job-hunting efforts and work on improving yourself every single day.

Conclusion

Being fresh out of school and unemployed is challenging. However, with the right strategies, recent graduates can jumpstart their careers. Establishing a strong professional network through LinkedIn, freelancing, crafting tailored resumes and cover letters for each application, reading books on business and communication, expanding technology-related skill sets, and thinking about long-term progress are great ways to improve job hunting prospects. By following these strategies, recent graduates will have a brighter future by succeeding in their chosen career path.