Too many college graduates are facing a very hard reality check this May: having a degree does not translate to having a great job offer immediately. In fact, searching for and interviewing for jobs doesn't translate to finding employment, either.
Tough Job Market
A recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that not even 20% of college graduates who have begun applying for jobs have found one. This puts the class of 2009 way behind those of 2007 (51%) and even behind last year's graduates (26%).
Due to the increased competition from the ranks of the experienced unemployed and last year's graduates who remain jobless, the job outlook is unlikely to turn around quickly for many people with new degrees.
Tips for Finding a Job
Below are some ways to increase your chances of finding employment if this situation describes your predicament.
- Network shamelessly. Make sure people know you are looking for work, and that you are flexible. Use your connections, attend as many job fairs as possible, have your parents and aunts and uncles keep you in mind when positions open up in their own companies, etc. Communicate to your (growing) network of professional friends and relations what your skills, talents, and desires are.
- Apply like crazy. Work hard on each application, and don't waste time applying for positions you know you really don't qualify for. Consider stretching your geographic boundaries or even your professional description. Sure, you may be qualified as a science researcher, but if a business needing a consumer researcher thinks you fit the bill, give it a try. Searching in related fields boosts your chances of finding something at least partially relevant that still utilizes your training and abilities.
- Don't be proud. If you need money for food and rent, don't be so stubborn that you don't work until you have exactly what you want. Work at a restaurant, in retail, or as a tutor while you continue your job search. At least that way you have the flexibility to hold out for something more in line with what you would like to do, and you are earning money in the meantime. As a bonus, you won't have a significant gap of unemployment to explain away in interviews down the line.
- Get feedback. Have multiple professionals (even your parents) look over your resume, give you tips on professional etiquette, offer suggestions on making yourself appealing to hiring staff, dressing for an interview, and so on. People who have been there will have the best advice.
- Consider entrepreneurship. Being young, having a lot of free time, and not having as many other financial or personal commitments (children, a mortgage, etc) gives you an opportunity to go into business for yourself that you are unlikely to have in the future. If you have a great idea that doesn't have a large start-up cost, give it a try – you may be surprised at what you can accomplish. Sell your artwork, work as a freelance writer, fill in that niche you noticed when you worked as a marketing intern, the options are endless.
- Work as an unpaid intern, or volunteer. One of the best ways to get your foot in the door with a company or organization is to show them what you can do. By working for free, you will get to know the people who can hire you in the (hopefully near) future, having the opportunity to impress them and make them want to offer you a job. They get a free preview of your skills, commitment, and professionalism, and you get valuable experience even if it doesn't turn into a job offer. On your resume, it will also look good that you didn't just sit around during your unemployment – you kept yourself occupied gaining great experience and honing your skills.
By following these suggestions, you will be opening yourself up to more opportunities. Seeking out employment actively by interning and networking, in combination with submitting applications and cover letters, will pay off not only by eventually landing you a decent job, but also by rounding out your resume and expanding your network of professional connections – always a good thing. So go get started!
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