10 Things Students Must Do to Get Their First Job After University

Graduating from college or university is a great accomplishment. But simply earning a degree doesn’t guarantee job-search success, or separate you from thousands of other recent graduates now looking for a job. Finding that first job takes time, effort and commitment — so don’t go into the search without a plan. Here are 10 steps to help you land that first job after university.

1. Update your résumé

A good résumé helps you land an interview and gives you confidence. Take the time to create a solid résumé before starting your search, and work with your university career center (even after graduation) for help. Once you have a master copy, remember you’ll need to tweak it for every job you apply for.

2. Prepare for interviews

A degree and a great résumé help you land an interview, but they don’t help you master it. Set up a real-life interview situation with a friend or career center representative, record it, and review your answers, voice, tone, and body language. It’s awkward — but so is showing up unprepared. University doesn’t prepare you for an interview; practicing does. You can also hire a career coach for mock interviews.

3. Connect with a recruiter

Know this first: recruiters don’t work for job seekers. Their job is to find candidates who fit their clients’ openings. Still, find a recruiter in your field (search industry experts on LinkedIn or recruiting firms in your area) and connect or register with their organization.

4. Register with a staffing firm

Staffing firms offer four opportunities: some companies hire only through them (the “hidden job market”); many prefer temporary or contract hires for project needs; some offer temp-to-hire roles (try before you buy, for both sides); and a contract role is a great way to add experience and connections that lead to your next job.

5. Network, network, network

It’s not always what you know — it’s who you know. Attend networking and industry events, or join a young professionals’ association. Be active, meet people, connect, and add professional contacts. And that doesn’t just mean on LinkedIn — get out and about.

6. Find a mentor

A mentor can provide career advice, job-search tips, and resources. They may not get you hired, but they can help you through the struggles and successes of being a young professional searching for that first job.

7. Reference check

When the time is right, employers will want references. Don’t just create a list and expect those people to know what to say — contact them, ask them to be references, and educate them on your goals and how best to sell you. Be aware that “backdoor” reference checks are common, so manage your online and professional reputation.

8. Check your online reputation

What would an employer find if they searched for you online? Secure your social media accounts, remove anything sketchy, and present yourself as a polished, prepared professional.

9. Take some chances

Apply for that job you think you’re underqualified for. Call a professional you admire and ask for an informational interview. Register with your dream employer’s database. Look beyond what your degree “says” you should do, and be different from the rest.

All of the above is hard work, so let jobs come to you — sign up for job alerts on job-search sites, some of which are dedicated to students and recent graduates seeking internships and entry-level roles.

Job searching is hard, but with preparation and planning, a recent graduate can quickly become a recently hired graduate. Follow these 10 steps to increase your chances.

Author: Matt Krumrie, contributing writer for CollegeRecruiter.com.