Top 5 ways to prepare for the job hunt
Trying to secure a job after graduation can seem like a daunting task. So how can someone fresh out of school maximize their chances of getting a job — and not just any job, but one that will lead to a successful career?
The answer is to start doing the leg work as soon as possible. Don't wait until after graduation to start working on your resumé or building the skills that employers are looking for in potential candidates.
Here are the top five ways you can get a head start on launching your career...
1. Stop by the Student Employment and Career Centre
The Student Employment and Career Centre offers year-round workshops that cover everything from Resumé and Cover Letter Writing, to Interview Strategies, to Job Hunting in the Digital Age. The centre also offers individual consultations with career development specialists for resumé reviews and practice interviews, and Career Connector, which has a job board with hundreds of postings advertising positions both on and off campus.
2. Start working on your resumé today
Waiting to build a resumé until you're ready to apply for a job, may be too late! It takes time to develop a good one, especially if you want to stand out. Start by learning the basics at a Resumé and Cover Letter Writing workshop, then make an appointment with a career development specialist for some initial feedback. You can come back for another review as many times as you need.
3. Clean up your act — your online act
Your online presence can say as much about you as your resumé — it can make or break your chances of getting hired. While it's OK to show a bit of personality by posting a funny photo or tweet, make sure you don't post anything inappropriate that would give a company a reason not to hire you. If you're ever unsure, err on the side of caution and keep it off the internet altogether.
4. Get involved
Develop the skills and qualities employers are looking for while you're in school. These include effective time management and organizational skills, the ability to work well both independently and as part of a team, good communication skills, and being adaptable to change.
Try volunteering, playing sports, and participating in clubs. Not only will you be better prepared for the workplace, but you'll also grow your network — relationships can open the doors to some great opportunities in the future.
5. Build your network
Some say up to 80% of jobs are never posted. Sometimes it's about who you know, not what you know. Begin growing your network right on campus by building lasting relationships with instructors, mentors, and classmates. Meet industry professionals through events, information sessions, and our bi-annual career fair. Research the companies that are attending ahead of time so you can have meaningful conversations with their recruiters during the fair.
Follow these tips and by the time you cross the stage at graduation, you'll be equipped with a shining resumé and the skills you need to land that dream job! To get you started, we've provided a plan.
Bonus: your plan
Here's an outline to help you prepare for the job hunt while you're in school. Just remember that this is a guide only. Depending on your program, you may have more or less time to check these off your list!
First semester
• Start working on your resumé
• Reach out to the Student Employment and Career Centre
• Sign up for Career Connector and attend some workshops
• Start building your LinkedIn profile and network
• Read job postings in your industry to find out what employers are looking for
Second semester
• Look for a summer, part-time or practicum position
• Have someone review your resumé and cover letter
• Sign up for a practice interview through the Student Employment and Career Centre
• Practice your elevator speech with friends and classmates
Third semester
• Update your resumé with any experience you've gained
• Start practicing your networking skills
• Become active in your program's club and expand your reach into industry
• Attend career fair and practice speaking to employers
• Follow companies you're interested in on social media to familiarize yourself with their values so you can find ways to demonstrate them in your school, work, volunteering, and professional communications
Fourth semester
• Update your resumé again with all the experience and skills you've gained during your program
• Reach out to the network you've established to let them know you're getting close to graduation, and ask if they can refer you
• Attend career fair again, and this time apply for jobs
• Practice your interviewing skills and continue to grow your network