Avoid These 3 Mistakes in the New Grad Job Search

The job search can be stressful for new grads. The current job market is tough and many grads are getting frustrated by the lack of responses they are getting back from potential employers. By not securing a job before graduation, grads now have extra pressures, and there is an immediacy to their desire to get an offer to begin their life after college and goals towards financial independence.?

While we cannot control market conditions or hiring practices, job candidates must do their best to control their actions and steps in the job search and eliminate common mistakes.?

Here are 3 typical MISTAKES that grads make in the job search, and the FIX to achieve career success:

Mistake #1: Applying for a job online? ??

At first glance, there are hundreds of jobs to be had when applying online. And with the “Easy Apply” button, the process seems simple. It is a wonderfully passive way to apply for a job. Just click and wait…and wait.?

Recent grads will tell me, “I applied to 100 jobs!” but wonder why they have not heard back weeks or months later. Here is the truth about applying online…THIS IS A BLACK HOLE. I repeat. THIS IS A BLACK HOLE.

The Fix: The best way to apply online is to change your strategy. Instead of measuring how many jobs are applied to, it is better to measure the number of networking conversations with individuals in the desired job. To get a resume in the hands of the hiring manager, an employee at the company must grab the resume and advocate and get the candidate in front of the right person. It also helps to reach out to the HR recruiter to express interest and share the alignment of skills to the role. Making direct contact with an employee significantly increases the chance of success.

Mistake #2: Interview blunders

Many recent grads are nervous about the interview. A common concern is knowing how much to say or explain. If a candidate rambles, the employer will get bored and not listen. If a candidate says too little or is vague, then the candidate comes across as not informed. The other mistake is answering the question too honestly and exposing personal information that can influence the hiring decision. Last, candidates often skip the research on the company and barely know anything about them.

The Fix:?

Approach the interview like a consultant. Understand the challenges of the business and share the benefits of one's skills to help an organization achieve its goals.

1. Skills. Think about what skills you are best at and how that aligns with the job requirements. Attributes such as hard-working, responsible, and trustworthy are nice but hard skills such as research, analytics, and leadership can reinforce how you can help the employer achieve their goals.
2. PRACTICE these skills and the skills stories that demonstrate this experience.? Record yourself or look in the mirror to see how you sound.
3. Research the company and write down 2-3 facts about the company you find interesting. Be prepared to answer why you want to work there.
4. Show your value. What metrics did you accomplish from your last role or project that relates to their business? How can you help the company achieve success because of your skill set?

Mistake #3: Imposter Syndrome

The job ad states “2+ years of experience required to apply.” The first thought is, “How can I possibly apply? I just graduated and only have one or two summers of part-time work. I am sure I’m not qualified, so I'll skip it.”

The Fix: Here is a secret… a candidate does not need to meet every requirement on a job ad. Most do not. Meeting 60-70% of the requirements is enough to go for it. Internships, volunteering, class projects, and more can add up to almost two years of experience. More importantly, exuding confidence and projecting yourself as someone who can DO the job is equally or more important than the “2+ years” of experience.

Searching for a first job after college can feel daunting, but it is important to use the time wisely to get results. You have worked hard for your diploma and this is not the time to let up by giving in to these common job search mistakes. Be patient, focused, and prepared, as the next opportunity could be right around the corner.

Learn how Next Great Step helps college students and new graduates achieve career success. Contact us for a complimentary consultation or call today at 973-577-6161.