How can you effectively search for jobs as a recent graduate?

A subject I love and am very close to, fresh grads <3! I have held tens of workshops on career advancement and success, so here are some highlights I can share: 1. Keep your options open; the positions in each industry are much more varied than they seem at first sight. Your success path might look different than the standard. 2. Do a solid reflection on your skills; ask friends to mirror your effort, see what things you need to put forth in an interview, and seek a mentor to do the same. 3. Be where the industry is: meetups, conferences, symposiums, s.o. 4. Be proactive: "I've looked at your product and found a couple of bugs or improvements you could look at" is one of the most powerful lines I've had a new grad open an interview on me.

?? Just graduate and job searching? Think bigger than the classroom to find your strengths and skills. Beyond academic projects, explore other experiences for skills: part-time jobs, volunteer work, clubs, Greek life... These experiences are skill goldmines: teamwork, leadership, time management, problem-solving. Rethink them: → Managed a fundraiser? That's project management. → Organized an event? That's coordination. When you translate your skills and strengths into your resume and LinkedIn using your unique voice, you'll attract companies where you'll thrive. One of the most important, and first, steps in job searching - at any phase in your career - starts with knowing yourself. You're more than a degree! #careermanagement

One thing I've noticed with recent college graduates is they often feel unprepared to communicate their value with little work experience outside of student roles and internships. I suggest doing a strengths assessment such as the Sparketype for ways to communicate who you are and your unique value outside of work experience.

Many people think they can just apply for jobs online or wait for a recruiter to call them. No so. According to research, up to 80% of jobs are found via networking. There is something called the hidden job market. It’s actually not hidden, but jobs are not posted purposefully (as someone may be getting fired, laid off, downsized, about to go on maternity leave, etc.) or the idea for the job posting is in someone’s head and has not yet been made public. There may be other reasons. Constantly build your network as you never know who knows who and who is hiring. Reach out to strangers for informational interviews and you might get an employee referral. When you meet people, connect on LinkedIn and keep growing your connections.

Networking is your best friend when job searching. This is because the better relationships you have, the better catered those opportunities can become. Existing on a resume does a wonderful job of explaining who you are 2dimensionally, but it is who you are 3dimensionally - your personality, your experience, your mindset - that your network can vouch for and contribute to in that search. Especially if that network expands into the industries you are interested in. Remember you are more than what a resume or CV says; the more people you know, the better you will be at learning continuously. Plenty of opportunities exist that only those "inside" may know about! Your friends are a fantastic way to find new opportunities.

Think about answering these questions (briefly) in your materials: Why this company? (What is it about them that aligns with your interests and values?) Why this position? (What is it about this position that aligns with your strengths and skills?) Why you? (What is it about YOU that aligns with the company and position?) Find the common threads among all 3 and write to those in your application materials.

Make your materials a window into your character and potential, leaving a lasting impact. Remember, your application is your first impression.

Beyond preparation, remember to show your genuine enthusiasm for the role. Connect your experiences and aspirations to the company's mission. Interviews are not just about what you say but how you present yourself too.

Follow-up is so important. In my years of working with recent graduates, employers would tell me that they sometimes wait to see if the candidate reaches out because it shows them who is truly interested in an opportunity. And then LinkedIn makes it so easy to apply, if you use the Easy Apply, it will be easy to lose track of your applications. Also, while we'd like to think that we'll get a call back or email upon application or rejection, it doesn't always happen. The best way to feel in control in an overwhelming and seemingly out of control process is to follow up.

It's not just about finding a job, it's about standing out in a sea of candidates. First off, think beyond the big names. The best opportunities often hide within small and medium enterprises. Secondly, don't be afraid to show your passion. In an era where technical skills can be learnt online, your passion becomes your differentiator. And lastly, remember that hires are usually made based on network connections. So never underestimate the power of networking.

The preparations and search for a job should start early from the pre-final years. A fresher should get into research mode to explore their skills as well should match those skills with the industry needs. This exploration will help to stand apart. Organizations would like to have individuals with little advanced knowledge than a zero-idea individual Of course experience and on-the-job training will help in learning the nuances of the business, but freshers should have the idea and purpose of the course they pursued. Do not hesitate to join MSMEs as here one can get the opportunity to be closer to seniors, learn business skills and develop faster. Have a flexible approach towards the salary & and work culture. Learning is THE core here

Always be adaptable and open to unexpected opportunities. A chance encounter or a side project can lead to a fulfilling career.

Also don't limit your job search to online postings; proactively approach companies you're passionate about. Embrace rejection as part of the process, and continuously enhance your skills and knowledge.