Finals are just around the corner. The end is in sight. It’s crunch time, people.
For those of you graduating, next week’s exams and reports will be your last. No more camp-outs in the library slaving over a paper, or memorizing facts. And no more finals week. It’s all downhill from here, right?
Wrong. The hard work is just beginning for you.
In reality, you are going to have to work harder to get that entry-level job than ever before.
Today, the “real world” is a little scarier than it was for last year’s graduating class. As of last month, the federal unemployment rate sat at 8.5 percent. At this time last year, it was 5.8 percent.
Ouch. There may be no worse time to get your foot in the door and land that first job. There’s just as much competition (and maybe more) than ever before. And far fewer jobs to compete for.
But not to worry, it’s still possible. Work harder than you ever did in college, harder than you did even for the dreaded finals week, and your hard work will pay off.
John Diaz, one of HSU’s 2009 Alumni of the Year, and opinion editor for the San Francisco Chronicle shared with the Lumberjack some tips on landing your first job. Now we are passing those tips onto you.
Tip 1: Know about your employer. Always do your research. The more you know about an employer, the more you can tailor your resume and cover letter to the employer’s needs. Make it say, “I want to work for you, and you only.” No generic resumes.
Tip 2: Think of three main points that you want to make in your interview. Often times, you can get overwhelmed when being interviewed for your future career. You may leave the interview saying, “I wish I would have said this, or that.” If you make the three points you intended on, you will have no regrets after the interview is over.
Tip 3: Make sure your cover letter is error free. Many employers just read the cover letter and toss out the resume if there are any mistakes. Proof read it. Have your friend proof read it. Also, show who you are in your letter, and describe your abilities. It might sound obvious, but it sets you apart from the crowd.
When putting yourself out there to find a job, just remember to keep your head up and keep searching. Think you’re not qualified for a certain job? Think you don’t have a chance? Diaz says apply anyway.
On the same token, don’t be too picky. A job in our current economy is a job.
The fact is, if you work hard, and harder than you did while in college, you’ll undoubtedly find something.
You just graduated, and it is time to get your foot in the door.
Good luck, and congratulations.
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