One of many things on the to-do-list for future grads
Recently I have been overwhelmed with looking for my post-graduation/May plans, that I have let it consume my entire day. Here are some suggestions I hate attempted to making it a bit easier and less stressful.
Set aside 1-2 hours per day to look at various sites. Before you start, make a list of where you are going to look. My focus for school is advertising and PR, so I’m not only looking at ‘hire’ sites, but also individual agencies and non-profit work as well.
Unsure of businesses in a city that looks enticing? Do a google search and see what pulls up. Recently I find myself Googling “advertising agencies in kansas city” because that is where I would love to end up. When you search it though, you might be surprised to go past the first or second page with results.
Try hire sites that search other sites. If it’s in the journalism field, try talent zoo or indeed. Both sites can give you criteria that you can modify a little easier and they search all the other hire sites as well.
Mix up your cover letters a bit. Don’t send out the same generic letter every time and insert company and job position when needed. People in the industry are connected, mostly as friends, and tend to talk. If you send out the same boring letter, it looks like you didn’t try. Tailor your letter toward the company and position you are applying to. If you have experience that is not relevant to the position you are applying to, don’t put it on there.
After sending your resume and cover letter, spell checked and looked over by peers and pros you trust, RE-SPELL CHECK IT AGAIN. Give the employer about a week or two to get their ducks in a line. Call them, make sure they have received your info and see if they have any questions. Just make sure to use your polite manners and tell them thank you!
It was told to me once, there is no ‘law’ on how to go about applying for jobs, and if you don’t do x, y and z, you won’t get one. It all depends on who you are and how you appeal to that employer. Just remember to not get too bogged down and mentally drained. There is a reason for everything, even when we sometimes don’t see what that reason is.
It’s tough out there but you can do it!
MD
March 13, 2009