It’s almost here. The last four years of your life are flying and you’re realizing that you may not be prepared for what’s after graduation. Economically, and quite often emotionally, entering the “real world” is harder than ever right now. Not only do you have to worry about the recession, but you’re in the midst of competition with previous graduates still looking for work and all of the military who just back from overseas. It’s no joke!
The workforce is filling up fast, and it’s a fight to get a spot. So, enjoy your spring break, study hard for your last set of midterms and finals, but certainly prepare for what’s to come. Although nothing can prepare you for the emotional roller coaster you will endure, these five tips certainly will help you avoid those awful graduation blues.
1. Network
By now, this little tidbit of advice has been drilled into your brain. If you meet someone important in the field that you are interested in, stay connected! Mingling as an intern at your dream company and attending social events go a long way. Once you make a lasting impression on someone with your wit or charm, take the person on as a mentor and when the time is right they can use their contacts to help you get your dream job. Plus, you never know who your family members may know. It just might be a person in the industry you’re looking to work in. By simply opening your mouth and networking with the right people, you will win!
2. Be Creative
Résumés are no longer the Times New Roman, black and white document you once thought it was. Remaining professional is key, but it’s important to do something creative, so that the employer says “Wow, I’ve got to get this person in for an interview.” If you can create a customized logo for the top of your résumé or specialized package with colors and designs catered to the company you’re interested in, you won’t go by unnoticed.
3. Start Early
As soon as your senior year started, you should’ve begun rounding up the companies you want to work for. But, you still have time! It’s never too late to send out résumés and fill out applications. Although the degree is not yet at hand, it will be very soon. Remember, you’re competing with millions of other people for the same position, so the earlier you start, the more successful you will eventually be.
4. Stay Positive
Once you graduate, there is a brief high. Then once August and September roll around, you get tired of being at home, wanting to go out and make your own money in a degree-required career. Post-college depression is REAL, and it can have you moping around the house hoping for a call back from someone, anyone! Having faith, remaining positive and knowing that God will take care of everything is key here. I know being a positive Jane is annoying to others at times, but hey, something has got to give. If you speak that you will get a job into existence and actually believe in it, it will happen and you will land one.
5. Learn To Ignore Your Parents (A Little)
Let’s just say you chose a route different than what your parents or guardian wanted you to pursue. Parents will nag you until death saying, “Told you that wasn’t a great career choice,” “You’re not going to make any money in what you just got your degree in” and “Why don’t you get a job in retail, it doesn’t look like anything will be coming your way.” All of these little snide remarks from parents are hard to ignore, but try not to let them get to you. If you surround yourself with a positive circle who motivates you, that’s all you need. Once you do land a job in the field you have been searching for, you can throw it in your parents’ faces politely and say, “Told you so.”
Good luck on your search, Grads!