Summer is approching...

Summer is approaching…this is an exciting time for employers and job seekers alike. Companies are seeking out the finest talent and job seekers are looking for the greatest opportunity. Job seekers may be wondering how to prepare for “that” summer job search, whether you are a potential graduate or seeking an internship, there are many things to consider prior to obtaining employment. With the economy the way it is today, companies and businesses may be looking to scale back, and continue focusing on the most qualified talent in efforts to hire and retain the best.

In preparing yourself to be the best, one may want to consider the following:

No matter what field you want to enter, the first step to finding a job is getting the proper training and education. One of the most important rules on finding a job is to first have marketable skills or a willingness to learn a new trade. Your attitude needs to reflect an eagerness to prove your skills. Even if you plan to take some time off after graduation, you need to keep your skills current and your attitude positive as finding and securing a job can be as easy as filling out an application at a local retail store or as complicated as proving yourself through grueling interviews.

Here are some tips for finding a good job:

1. Career placement services. Almost every school or training facility offer some form of job placement assistance. Visiting this office can yield job leads you would most likely never discover on your own, as companies often reach out directly to schools and career centers.
2. Job fairs. Every year local and national companies come together for conventions, job fairs and informational sessions. These job fairs can connect company representatives with potential employees. A good job fair is like one-stop shopping for the diligent job seeker. Gather all of the information you can during the convention, and don't be afraid to ask serious questions.
3. Networking. Reach out to peers, professors, professional organizations, mentors and/or those within your community. Ask questions and make your skills and intentions clear to those connections around you.
4. Professional job placement services. This may be an expensive route to take for a new graduate, but a professional employment service may have targeted leads on jobs you'd never discover on your own. Some ask for a fee to keep your name on file, while others collect a portion of your salary until the debt has been settled. These placement services may also offer to create resumes or hold mock interviews in order to hone your skills
5. Web Sites. This may be the easiest way to learn of opportunities and obtain a company profile. Most sites will allow a job seeker to review all position details and apply on-line.

Although there is no guaranteed method of gaining employment, those actively looking for work need to use as many methods and sources as it takes to get the results they want. Job searching is an active process, so expect to spend as much time looking for work as you would expect to put into the job itself.

Remember to stay focused as the problem for many new graduates is that they are unsure what type of career they want to pursue. Having been in school for the past sixteen years and accustomed to having someone advise them of their next move, first year graduates often experience a difficult transition as they move from a structured educational environment into what is known after college as the “real world.”

Written by Guest Blogger:
Lisa - Manager University Relations