5 Simple Strategies for College Graduates Pursuing a Career

Your college graduation is a significant achievement, but ideally, it’s just the first of many. Next up for most grads is a fulfilling career that provides opportunities for personal growth, meaningful work, and comprehensive benefits.

Simple enough, right?

Not really. Disruptions to the job market, uncertainty in terms of job security and the overall college experience have shifted things around a bit, with a particularly tough impact on the graduating class starting back in 2020. COVID era 2020 grads saw the positive outcomes of the six years prior, decrease by every measure, including a 5% drop in full-time employment.

We’re here to help! Below, we’ve provided a few solid strategies any college grad can implement to improve their chances of finding the right job right away.

1. Craft a Superior Resume

Tailor your resume to each specific job application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences that directly align with the position’s requirements. Several versions of your resume with only the career objective or career summary changed, may help showcase different aspects of your expertise. If you need additional help, consider checking in at your campus career center for some valuable advice.

2. Use Your Connections

Don’t underestimate the power of your network! Reach out to professors, career advisors, and former internship supervisors who can offer connections and insights into your desired field. Attend industry events when possible and consider connecting with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to expand your network while exploring potential opportunities.

3. Build a Strong Online Presence

Having a strong online presence is essential to any job search or staffing solution. To that end, create a well-curated LinkedIn profile that showcases your skills, experience, and accomplishments. Include a clear and professional headshot, and tailor your profile to highlight relevant keywords and industry-specific information.

4. Stay Informed

Keep yourself updated on industry trends and job market forecasts. Resources like the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) offer valuable insights into job outlooks for recent graduates. Use job search platforms like Indeed and ZipRecruiter to stay informed about current openings and tailor your search criteria to your skills and interests.

5. Embrace Continuous Learning

There can be many misconceptions when it comes to the reality of graduation employment, but educating yourself can make all the difference. Consider enrolling in online courses, attending workshops, or pursuing certifications to enhance your skill set and stay competitive in your chosen field. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow will make you a more valuable long-term asset to any organization.

College graduates certainly face some unique challenges when seeking employment these days. Even though we are trending toward an employer’s vs. candidate’s job market, focusing on the basics in terms of your job search strategies including the tips we’ve provided above, will ensure you’re well on your way to finding meaningful employment.

​