8 Unconventional Ways To Land Your Dream Job After College
Everyone hopes to land their dream job straight out of college. Unfortunately, life isn’t always so easy. There’s a lot of competition out there and it’s up to you to stand out. When an employer looks at a your resume, what makes you different? What can you offer the company that other people can’t? These are the questions you need to ask yourself and make steps to answer. A college degree often isn’t enough to get your foot in the door. These days, you need more skills and experiences that seem impossible to have at your age. But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. There are plenty of ways you can land your dream job after college, but they require commitment and determination to succeed. Does this sound like you?
1. Apply for the dream job, not the dream salary
Have you taken the time to truly identify what your dream career is? Is it about having a job you’ll enjoy or a great salary? If it’s the former, keep your mind set on applying for the dream job. Don’t get lured by a huge salary if you’re going to be miserable and regret it later.
2. Apply for unlisted jobs
It’s a sad truth that many of the jobs available aren’t even advertised. What you see on job postings is just a sample of what’s out there. Many of the jobs available are advertised word-of-mouth, for people within the industry. This is why you need to start networking. If you acquaint yourself with people who work in the company or industry of your dreams, they might alert you to job openings. Even if you’re still in college, it’s a good idea to start networking right now. You never know, you might meet someone who is a friend of a friend of someone in your dream company.
3. Rethink how you’re using social media
When applying for jobs, employers will often search your social media to see who they are hiring. Consider how you’re presenting yourself, as you don’t want anything embarrassing to hinder your chances.
4. Apply for an internship
This is the most conventional way to land your dream job, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. Internships really are the biggest foot in the door you can get. Once you get an internship, just make sure you prove to the company why you’re worth keeping. Ask questions, show you’re willing to learn, do everything you can to show you’re committed to the company and your dreams.
5. Make a video resume
Video resumes are increasingly becoming the norm in job applications. Employers like putting a face to an application, and video resumes show your creative thinking and determination. Make sure you’re staying ahead of the game and create a video resume that is high quality and demonstrates your skills and strengths.
6. Volunteer
Everyone has bills to pay, but consider taking a few hours each week to volunteer. It’s a great addition for your resume if you’re looking to increase your skills and experience section.
7. Build a website
Have you considered making a personal website? It’s a great way to showcase your portfolio, skills and experiences. Think of it as a modern-day business card. Use it to network and as part of your job applications.
8. Start now!
Even if you’re still in college, you need to start making the steps to reach your dream job now. You can network, you can build a website, you can apply for part-time jobs that offer unique skills, you can volunteer. Consider your time in college as an opportunity to build your resume. Remember, always start today, not tomorrow.
Have you got big dreams after college? Tell us your passions and dream job in the comments below!
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