As we approach graduation season, we wanted to share some tips that you can pass on to those graduates you know and love. Here are five tips to effectively showcase their skills through their resume and help them get their first job:
- Use results-driven verbiage - This means highlighting specific achievements and quantifiable results to demonstrate that you do what you say you can do. For instance, instead of simply listing a job duty, include specific metrics that demonstrate how you excelled in that role. If you completed an internship, what were you expected to do and what did you actually accomplish?
- Remove the objective statement - As professional recruiters who look at resumes every day, we find they often hurt more than they help. Instead, focus on a professional summary that highlights your skills and experiences that align with the job you're applying for.
- Have someone check your resume for errors - Having a second set of eyes (or hiring a professional) to review your resume for spelling, grammatical, and formatting errors is extremely important. Companies often look at resumes to see if you truly have an attention to detail as you claim you do. A polished and error-free resume will make a strong first impression on potential employers.
- Utilize your network - Obviously, who you know helps, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create your own network. Start following people in the industry you want to get involved in and attend industry-specific networking events to meet key people. These events vary in cost, but most have student rates to encourage more student participation. Get involved and have conversations.
- Be pitch-ready - Regardless of if you’re a new grad or not, all of us should know our story. Who are we and what do we do or want to do? Come up with this succinct and realistic "elevator pitch" and then practice it so you’re ready to share at a moment’s notice. I want to emphasize: if you're fresh out of school, highlight how you want the opportunity to work hard and prove your abilities. Avoid sharing how you want the corner office and want to become a CEO or own your own company. Your goal is to be considered, so make sure that the people you speak to understand how you bring their organization value now.
We hope these tips are helpful as you prepare to take the next step in your career journey. Good luck with your job search, and congratulations on your upcoming graduation!
