Job Hunting Advice from an Unemployed College Senior

By Maddy Baltas, Firm Director, Spring 2020

In case you didn’t know, it’s the end of February. While some people are coming down from a Valentine’s Day high or looking forward to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, college seniors are beginning to realize their glory days are almost over.  Instead of looking for something to fill their summer vacation, seniors have to start looking for the real deal: a full-time job. Here are three things you can do to give yourself the best chance at landing your dream position.  Update your resume and LinkedIn One page. Make it count. It’s the little things that matter — update your verb tenses, triple check your spelling and only include what is necessary. In your interview, you’ll be able to expound on the information listed in your resume. Also, make sure to include quantifiable information. Numbers stand out.  After glancing at your resume, your potential employer will go straight to your LinkedIn. Not only should your LinkedIn match your resume, but it should also provide some more detail. This is the perfect place to link and upload your work. Give your page some personality. You should be sharing relevant articles and commenting on your friend’s successes. It’s one of the first impressions your employer will have of you.  Clean up your social media Unless your social media is relevant to your job, make it private and delete any sensitive information and photos. After employers decide if they want to move you to the next round, they Google you. And, if anyone tells you potential employers will not Google you, they are lying. Hide that photo from your 21st birthday party and update your profile picture to give your employer the best impression of you.  Network, network and network “It’s not what you know but who you know.” Networking is one of the best ways to get your foot in the door. While the task can be daunting, it’s important to remember that everyone is human and most people are willing to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to that person on LinkedIn at your dream company. Ask them for an informational interview or take them to coffee. What is the worst thing that can happen? They say no. If your meeting goes well, they might even nudge your resume to the top of the HR department’s pile — who knows!  Bonus: Pick your interview outfit out now … and wear it to every first-round interview. Find an outfit you feel comfortable and confident in and wear it every time. This eliminates the panic the morning of your interview and gives you more time to prepare. To all of the seniors with full-time jobs lined up after graduation, congratulations.  To all of the seniors still looking for a job, like me, don’t forget this expert advice: you will land.