Great Guidelines For Grads

You just got a degree and you’re ready to find a job. It’s quite a challenge in today’s competitive job market, so use these tips to make the most of your time and get started on your career path:

 Do your research. Chances are you’ve chosen a field of interest (if you haven’t you may already be behind the power curve). Check the latest stats by going to www.careeronestop.org. Look under “Explore Careers” for info on the fastest growing industries (currently management, scientific or technical consulting followed by data processing and home health care) or check out employment trends by state.

 Approach finding a job as a full-time job in itself. Get good at the basics of resume-writing, interviewing and following up.

 If you know what job you want but don’t get hired right away, acquire as many skills and experience in that field as you can and apply at a later date. If you want to work for an advertising agency, for example, do freelance jobs for smaller companies to build your portfolio. Or take an entry-level job with the agency as a starting point.

 If “plastics” isn’t your thing (remember “The Graduate”?) but you don’t know what “your thing” is, do some “informational interviewing.” Interview people in professions you are considering. Be open to a job that’s not directly related to your major.

 Build a network and make connections. Join the social networking site www.linkedin.com and local networking groups to let people know you are looking for a job. Find a mentor to help you pursue your career goals.

 Consider a start-up. You may have more responsibilities at a smaller company. Check out a site like www.startuphire.com.

Take some time off but only if you use it productively. Seek out an internship, use your skills in community service or volunteer overseas