First Time Tips

Kerry Spivey

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Life seems to work in four-year intervals. Just when you got comfortable in high school, it was time to make the move to college. Likewise, just when you began to feel like the big man (or woman) on your college campus, it was time to make your way into the real world because your four years in college were ending. By the end of your college career, you have been in some type of school for over 15 years. How do you make the next step in your life? If you are going into the job market for the first time, the following are a few tips to help you get on track. The initial move is the hardest one to make, but following this advice should help you out!

Give yourself a makeover

Consider what you looked like in high school. Then remember what you looked like in college. When you made the transition from one to the other, didn`t you update your look to fit in a little better? Remember always being able to spot a freshman a mile away? The same goes for newcomers to the job market if they do not prepare themselves for their new place in life. First, get a good, clean haircut. When you are in college, you can get away with messy, unkempt hair. But, just like the days of pulling all nighters and endless multiple-choice tests, the days when shaggy was appealing are over. Next, invest in an interview outfit that can also be worn once you start your job. Purchase something you feel comfortable in, but that also shows your desire to be a professional. A new, crisp look will boost your own confidence, as well as give others confidence in your abilities. When employees see that you are willing to go to the effort to look your best, they know you will go the extra mile once you get the job. When you look good, you feel good. When you feel good, you interview even better!

Get involved in your chosen field

Even though you don`t have a job yet, you can still gain valuable experience in your field by joining a professional or trade organization. Joining organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists or the American Management Association will inform you of the latest trends in your field. Consider your monthly meetings as an opportunity to share ideas and network with others who share your career aspirations. Many professional societies even have job banks. The easiest way for you to find an avenue into a career in your field is to surround yourself with professionals in that field. The fact that you are willing to volunteer your time demonstrates your dedication to the profession. Extracurricular activities also have a dynamite affect on your resume. Strive to be more than just a member of the organization; try to become an officer or committee head. For example, if you are interested in an accounting career, run for treasurer of your organization. Any role that is more active than just a member shows great initiative and leadership ability. Experience puts you on the fast track to the job you have been waiting for.

Arm yourself for the unexpected interview

You never know when you are going to be tapped for an interview, especially when you are an active member of a professional organization. When you get invited to interview, you need to be prepared with a stunning resume and cover letter. Your resume should always be prefaced by a cover letter that states your intentions and briefly highlights your interest in the company. Your resume is essential because it is your personal marketing package. Start working on your resume early. You will find that it is much easier to simply update your resume periodically than it is to have to start from scratch when you try to get that first interview!

You don`t have to do this all alone!

Just like you may want to make a career out of managing other people's finances or helping others find a home, there are many people who make it their career to manage your career. You would be surprised at the resources available to the job seeker. First, it is a great idea to take vocational tests that help direct you to a career. Based on answers to a few questions, vocational tests can help you decide what field may be best for you. Also, make an appointment to see a career consultant. This allows you to work hands-on with a professional who can help you realize your interests and talents. A career consultant also can help you create or revise your resume. They will also give you interview advice. There is also a wealth of information on the Internet. Surf sites like Monster.com, Headhunter.net and Wetfeet.com to gain valuable advice via the web.

Reserve your right to be picky

It is a common occurrence to get so caught up in the confidence boost of your first job offer that you take the job without heavily weighing whether or not the job might really be the one for you. Hesitate in taking the first job you are offered unless you feel certain that it is exactly what you want. When taking a job, you should be able to envision yourself in the job for about five years. If you cannot, put the company on hold. Tell them that you appreciate the offer, but that you need two weeks to make your final decision, because you are also interviewing with other companies. Chances are, you have made such a good impression that they will give you the opportunity to accept the position later. This gives you the perfect chance to see what else is out there. College graduates` expectations are higher than ever, so do not compromise yours for the first offer you receive. Allow yourself to feel proud, and use your new confidence to wow prospective employers in future interviews.

Everyone knows that starting out in the job market can be a scary thing. Whether you are planning to be a millionaire by age 30, or you want to work for a non-profit organization for minimal pay, but maximum satisfaction, your expectations should remain high. After following these tips, you will have put in maximum effort to impress prospective employers. Now, it is their turn to impress you.

 

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