One of the most exciting–and somewhat daunting–times in life may be the transition from college student to young professional in the workplace. Though the Class of 2011 is entering an ailing workforce, there are many things they can do to show off new degrees where it really counts.
Here are a few suggestions:
Establish a stellar online presence. So you’ve graduated. Now what? Well, how about establishing a stellar online presence? With employers Googling candidates more than ever before, it may be a good idea to clean up your online image and establish a presence that will help you get found. Think about updating your bios, blogging as much as you can, creating a Vizibility SearchMe link and QR code, synching your online platforms, etc. That way, you’ll probably stick out when an employer searches your name.
Network, network, network. Networking is one of the number one ways people find jobs. Are you doing enough to connect with employers and influencers? You may want to join industry organizations, go to informational sessions, or even reach out to your past employers and internship managers. Remember: The more people who know about your new degree, the more feedback you will probably receive.
Stay current. Sure, you have graduated. However, does a piece of paper mean you suddenly know everything? Probably not. Think about enhancing your degree by staying up to date with industry news, using the newest technology, and discussing the latest information on your online profiles. After all, staying current is more than just looking good in front of influencers. Continuing to learn about your industry will eventually make you a better candidate, giving the employer a reason to pursue you.
Give people a reason to hire you. Just because you have a degree, doesn’t mean you’re suddenly on the same page as the rest of the workforce. You should probably give employers a reason to hire you outside of your new degree. How are you different? What can you do to move the firm from point A to point B? How will your role improve the position?
Tools like your cover letter and your LinkedIn profile are a great way to answer these questions by explaining your background, your experience, and most importantly, your results. Think of it this way: If you let an employer know what you can do for them, you’re probably half way there already.
Are you a recent grad? What are you doing to stand out?
Adrian Maynard is Vizibility’s director of marketing. He has more than 20 years of experience in marketing, many of those years in the technology industry. Find Adrian in Google at vizibility.com/adrian.
