WEBINAR: In a recent webinar, LaSalle Network Senior Director, Corporate and Campus Recruiting, Megan Trzcinski, outlined top tips on how the class of 2021 can successfully land a position post-graduation. Download the webinar recording here.
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While 2021 graduates saw the class ahead graduate into a recession, the jobs market has sprung back just in time for this year’s class, who are entering one of the strongest jobs markets in history.
While there are more job openings today than last year, that doesn’t mean graduating seniors will just land into a role once they cross the stage. Dedicate time now to do the following steps to successfully land a job post-graduation and not be jobless once the dust settles.
Utilize career services: There are only a few months left to take advantage of this service provided by colleges and universities. Career Services offers a range of services to help students in their job search, including: resume and cover letter writing assistance, open positions and internship opportunities, mock interviewing and more. If students are not sure where to start in their job search, a visit to the campus’ career services office is a must.
Attend career fairs: With career fairs taking place virtually, many schools are allowing all students to attend any career fair within the university. This is a great opportunity for students to learn about different industries and better understand what skills and qualities companies are seeking for various roles. Career fairs are also a great place to practice interview skills and make new connections, which still takes place virtually.
Network: Make a list of who you interact with to reach out and network with, whether it be family members, friends, professors, or managers from a previous position or internship. Ask them about what they do for a living and how they got to where they are in their careers. Ask if their companies are hiring, or if they know anyone in their network who is hiring. Consider using LinkedIn to reach out to people you may not directly know who have a career you are interested in. First ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated and fully complete before reaching out – this is a virtual resume, so ensure it looks professional. Download our guide, Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile, for a checklist of profile updates to make and recruiter secrets for standing out. Send them a message and ask to setup an informational interview to speak with them about their career, industry or company.
Clean up your online image: Google search your name and see what comes up. Conducting a social and online audit is important to ensure you’re putting your best foot forward.
Cast a wide net: Take advantage of today’s virtual workplace, and don’t stay limited to job opportunities within a specific geographic area. With companies hiring talent across the country, regardless of headquarters, now could be the time candidates try a position they wouldn’t consider before. Also, don’t overlook temporary positions, they are a great way to get a foot in the door and grow within an industry or company, and serve as a test-drive to ensure it’s the right position.
