10 Job Searching Strategies For Upcoming Graduates

Job hunting can get really competitive these days, which means you’ll need any and all resources you can get your hands on to get those much-needed callbacks! There are many job searching strategies to help you get ahead of the game, so consider using a combination of the strategies listed below to maximize your career results. Let’s dive in!

1. Indeed, LinkedIn, and Handshake

Using social media career platforms like Indeed or LinkedIn is going to be the main way you apply to jobs. This means it is extremely important that your profile is professional and insightful. You’re going to want to highlight your skills, internships, and links to your websites on your homepage. Also, start building those connections (meaning send out friend requests)! The more connections, the better, I cannot stress that enough!

As a bonus tip, just know that Indeed has timed tests that employers can ask applicants to take, to see if they know enough information for the potential position. Make sure to take your time and get as high of a score as you can on these tests!

2. Internet

If you’re searching for jobs in Google or whatever browser you fancy, make sure that the postings are current. Sometimes, students will spend hours perfecting a solid application, only to find out the job expired or was posted years ago. Websites will not be on top of their posted dates as well as platforms like LinkedIn, so review that website page and make sure the position is still open and pending!

Also, since you’re just searching in a web browser and not on a professional career database, it’s important that you verify the website reputation you’re on before you share any private information. Remember, not all websites are legit.

3. On-Campus Interviewing

Before you graduate, use every single resource your school has to offer, including on-campus interviewing. A couple times throughout the year, employers will reach out to universities to partake in on-campus interviewing. You might get an email from your counselor letting you know that so-and-so from Company Inc. is here and ready for interviews. Take advantage of this! Even if you don’t get the position, all interviews are good practice.

Here are a few tips if you attend an on-campus interview: Before you go to the interview, attend the employer information sessions, that your school might host, where you can learn more about the employer. Take notes and use this information in your interview! Also, make sure your resume and cover letter are up to date on your university portal (this is most likely how you’ll schedule the interview, too).

4. Staffing Agencies

If you’ve never heard of a staffing agency, just think of Ryan Howard from The Office! Staffing agencies are great because they can match potential employees with the right employer! Before you dive into just any agency, here are some things to keep in mind: Locate agencies that specialize in your field and find out if you are going to have to pay a starting fee. While staffing agencies are usually a win-win situation for employers and employees, just know that some positions will be short-term, at a lower salary, and the agencies’ primary commitment is with the paying recruiting firm, not the job seeker.

5. Career Fairs

As you start your senior year of college, find out when the career fairs start. This is one of the best ways to meet potential hiring companies, and the best part is, they come right to you! Research employers in advance and make a list of your top choices at the fair. Prepare to dazzle them with your knowledge about their company and your upbeat personality! Dress to impress and ALWAYS bring copies of your resume.

6. Networking

It takes more than just having your Bachelor’s Degree these days to land a job. Really, it comes down to who you know! The first thing you need to do is inform your teachers, friends, family members, and anyone else you have a connection with, that you are searching for a job. If someone you know gives you a lead, contact that new lead and expand your network. Send a friendly email letting that contact know that so-and-so referred you, and attach your updated resume.

Another great way to expand your network is to join clubs and organizations, or volunteer for boards. By joining an organization, you are meeting a ton of new people, and some of them might have a potential career connection for you.

7. Unsolicited Mail/Email

Before you toss out all of the junk mail, check and see if there are any career opportunities amongst them (this also works for emails, too)! If you find a job posting, research that company and find out the specific needs of the position in question. Next, obtain the contact information of the hiring manager and send a cover letter to that company. Always follow up, and if you do not hear back within a couple days, send another courtesy email stating you are still interested.

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If you do find unsolicited mail, it’s really important to do your research and make sure it’s not a scam and actually a potential position.

8. Recruiter

A personal recruiter is one of the best ways to find a job! Yes, you’re going to have to spend a little money, but it’s worth it! A recruiter differs from a staffing agency in the sense that, a recruiter is someone you pay to help you find a career connection, and then once you find one, it is up to you to nail the interview and land the job. A recruiter will develop a sustainable recruiting strategy based on your goals and needs. Most of the time, you can run your resume by your recruiter and they’ll help you clean it up a bit.

9. Published Ads

If you come across a published ad, follow the stated guidelines and tailor your application materials to fit the job you are applying for. Again, stay in touch and send a follow-up email if you don’t hear back within a couple days.

10. Direct Contact (Cold Calls/Visits)

If you are feeling particularly bold, then consider cold calling or driving straight to the source! You are going to want to do your research before arriving for an in-person interview or making a call. Also, know that you are going to have to sell yourself. Since there was no official position open, you are going to have to make a case as to why they should take you on. Prepare meaningful questions to ask and have your resume handy. You’ve got this!