Calling all Graduates get a job you deserve!
March 28, 2006
It’s that time again, when the country produces hundreds of thousands of new college graduates eager to jump into the work force. However, many of these bright, young college grads settle for jobs that require only a high-school diploma! Often, this is because they don’t know how to job-search or plan a career, and are urgent to simply land a job that pays the bills. Later, they find it difficult to get into a career because they have no good work experience on their resumes. What can a student or recent grad to assure that they land a position they deserve?
“When recent college graduates go on an interview it is important that they look like they can fit into the company,” explains Dr. Richard Bayer, chief operating officer of The Five O’Clock Club, a national career-coaching organization. “Hiring managers want people who will be the best fit for their team.” Here are some tips on what hiring managers really look for.
YOUR RESUME: Will It Catch Their Interest?
· Always have a cover letter. If possible, make specific comments about the company in your cover letter. This will show that you have done your homework and have a genuine interest.
· Make your resume stand out from the rest. You probably have had some work experience, which ideally fits with your interests. For example, if you like public relations and have had a job in the industry, headline your resume with “Public Relations Assistant,” and state your accomplishments. Employers want people with experience.
THE INTERVIEW: Outshining the Competition!
· Figure out what you enjoy doing and do it well. If you’ve always enjoyed writing and hate numbers, don’t interview with investment bankers just because your parents think it is a good idea.
· Always Prepare. Don’t look surprised after the hiring manger says, “tell me about yourself” You’ll look silly. Practice your answers ahead of time. You may want to look at our website,
( www.FiveOClockClub.com) for some practice questions and answers.
· Change your mindset. Move from a consumer mentality to a producer mentality. In school, you were the consumer; in the labor force, you are the producer.
· Always show enthusiasm at the interview. Any slight indication of disinterest can be a turnoff. To be safe, try sitting at the edge of your seat to show that you really care.
· Always have a presentable appearance. Don’t show any visible tattoos or body piercing. If you stray too far from the company’s style, you won’t come across as a potential team player.
TALKING ABOUT Salary: Wait For An Offer.
· Do not bring up the salary issue. Chances are you don’t have that much experience, so you are not in a strong position to negotiate salary. Wait for offers first. Try to get two or three concurrent offers, and then take the job that positions you best for the long run, not the one that pays a buck an hour more.
Follow-up: It Definitely Counts!
· Always follow-up. Hiring managers are very busy people. Sending them a reminder that you are still interested can only help you get to the top of their list.
· Writing is the best method. A written letter makes for a more impressive follow-up than a phone call. It also gives the hiring manager a hard copy of your comments.
· Don’t send them a sentimental follow-up. Address any objections the hiring manager might have voiced during your interview. Don’t just say you “really like the company.”
For more information at http://www.fiveoclockclub.com