3 Ways to Land a Job Before Graduation

Whether you’re facing college graduation with gusto or fear and trepidation, it’s coming. And after the cap and gown, you have to face the reality of the real world. Are you ready? Deep breaths – it’s ok if you’re not. But if you want to be ready – or even more than ready, at that – you can take steps now to land a job before graduation. Here’s how. 1. Do your research. Is there a specific company you want to work for? Or a dream job that you’re hoping to land? If so, you need to do your research on that company or position. Do a web search, watch any YouTube videos the company has out there and reach out to the HR department or hiring director about an informational interview. If you don’t know what you want to do or where you want to work, your first stop should be your campus career center. In addition to providing tests and expert advice that will help direct you toward the right career, they can offer you assistance in creating your resume, conducting mock interviews and networking with alumni in your field of interest. 2. Network now. The term “networking” may be terrifying to you, but it’s necessary to landing your first job. Fortunately, being on a college campus right now is a huge advantage. There are plenty of opportunities to network through job fairs, special events and visiting alumni who either come back to campus to recruit new employees or speak about their profession. You can also network online via sites like LinkedIn. The site does not require you to have a job in order to sign up. Rather, you can indicate that you’re a soon-to-be college graduate looking for a job in a certain field. Through matching algorithms, you’ll easily be able to find employers who are looking for candidates like you. 3. Market yourself. Your job search as a college student is your own personal campaign to get your name and resume out there to potential employers. With that, it’s important that you have relevant work experience, a flawless resume and a drive to get what you want. If you don’t have work experience, get some. Take a part-time job or internship. If you can’t get either, line up a job shadow, which you can include on your resume. Speaking of resumes, don’t be afraid to brag about yourself. This is one of those few times in life that it’s not only acceptable but encouraged. Finally, you need to get yourself and your resume out there – to anyone, anywhere that you would like to work.