SMART LIVING: Hunting for jobs after graduation

ORLANDO, Fla. (IVANHOE NEWSWIRE) – Recent college graduates are preparing to join the workforce, but searching for a job can be daunting.

On average, a graduate will spend three to six months searching for a job. In addition, about 53 percent of graduates are unemployed or working at a job that doesn’t require a degree.

When preparing to enter the job market, there are multiple things that you should keep in mind.

“Internships, internships, internships, internships, internships, undergraduate research – whatever it might be to get these richer experiences while they’re here so that they’ll have so much more to share when it comes time for interviews,” explained Lynn Hansen, director of career services at the University of Central Florida.

If you didn’t get any experience before graduation, spend this summer doing an internship to beef up your resume.

Also, networking is key. Attend career fairs, alumni events, and professional networking mixers to connect with potential employers.

Graduates searching for a job should also have a good social media presence.

“We encourage students to have a very strong LinkedIn profile,” said Hansen.

About 77 percent of recruiters look at LinkedIn profiles during the hiring process.

Be proactive and persistent. After applying for a job, send the hiring manager a personal email to inform them that you’ve applied.

Don’t go into the interview unprepared. Practice your answers. Apps like Huru are free and allow you to practice unlimited interviews and get immediate feedback from AI.

Other steps that you can take to land a job include creating a portfolio website, joining professional development groups, and becoming a volunteer that pertains to the field in which you want to grow.

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