Congratulations on your recent graduation from college! As you prepare to launch your professional career, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure how to start your job search. You may have heard that no one is hiring, or that you need to apply to hundreds of jobs to win one interview. Don’t let fear or outdated career advice derail your job search efforts. Here’s the scoop on the top 3 job search concerns that I hear most often:
MYTH #1: No one is hiring.
TRUTH:
Despite the doom and gloom reported by the media, there is actually a good deal of hiring going on today, in nearly every sector. According to NACE’s Job Outlook 2016 Spring Update report, employers expect to hire 5.2% more new graduates from the Class of 2016 than they hired from the Class of 2015.
However, outdated job search strategies won’t cut it in today’s competitive job market. The best strategy combines 80% active efforts (face-to-face and online networking) with 20% passive efforts (trolling online job boards). With the right strategy, the job opportunities will be plentiful.
MYTH #2: The resume template my professor told me to use 2 years ago is fine.
TRUTH: Today’s resume has evolved into a forward-facing marketing document that positions you for the job you want. It must be targeted, address the employer’s needs and be compatible with the Applicant Tracking Systems used by most employers today. Make sure the resume advice you follow is current, based on recent training and proven to be successful.
MYTH #3: I should apply to every job I see to increase my odds for success.
TRUTH: The “spray and pray” method rarely works. You will see better results by clarifying your career goals and identifying the companies that offer the best work culture for you. Then, it is important to take your time and not rush through completing the online job applications. It is much more effective to apply really well to 5-10 jobs, rather than to quickly apply to hundreds.
If you are apprehensive about your career goals or the job search itself, there are tons of well-trained professionals eager to help you. If your school’s career service staff is not available, hiring a career coach in private practice could give you the competitive EDGE you need to get your career off to a great start.
The owner of EDGE Career Solutions, Trish Thomas has been helping people develop the tools, strategies and confidence to build satisfying careers since 2009. A Career Coach, Resume Expert and Certified MBTI Practitioner, Trish helps her clients gain the competitive edge and guides them through the job search process to make it less overwhelming and more successful. Contact her today to see how she can help you achieve your career goals at (860) 658-6480 or trish.thomas@edgecareersolutions.com. Discover your EDGE.