4 Tips for First-Time Job Seekers

| By Maddy Gonzalez |

Getting your first job is a daunting reality that we all face at some point in our lives. This task is especially daunting for college students looking to expand their network before they graduate college.

Some students come to college with previous work experience, such as being a babysitter or a lifeguard. But the majority of college students arrive at college with no previous work experience. This lack of experience might make it seem impossible to get a job in today’s competitive workforce. However, there are 4 key strategies that will help any college student land their first job.

1) Stress your ability to learn new skills quickly.

In your interview and in person, make sure you convey to the employer that you are willing to embrace the learning curve and work hard. Use examples to show them how you have done so in the past. Employers love employees who are adaptable and determined to complete tasks they are given.

2) Highlight examples of leadership roles and projects.

Everyone has had some type of leadership role in their life and projects they have contributed to. Some examples include holding leadership positions in clubs, being an active member in your church, and working on a project to serve the community. Use these experiences to demonstrate how you have taken an active role and showed commitment to the activities you are or were involved in.

3) Tailor your resume and cover letter to show your “soft skills” as well as other skills acquired in “non-work” settings (such as classes).

“Soft skills” include a person’s interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to work in a team. Many employers value these skills more than prior experience because soft skills are difficult to learn. You may have acquired some of these skills by working in groups in courses you have taken. Consider what other knowledge and skills your education and other life experiences have prepared you with.

4) Start small.

Accept the fact that some employers are looking for applicants with specific job experience. Prepare yourself for the possibility that your best option may be a job position that is not exactly what you are looking for. Don’t let this discourage you, as any job you have will give you valuable experience that you can apply to other jobs in the future. Approaching each new opportunity with enthusiasm will help you open doors to other opportunities.

In summary, using these 4 strategies when applying to get your first job will help you distinguish yourself from other applicants. However, getting your first job is no easy task, so remember to stay positive, and stop by the Career Center during Express Advising for job search strategies and support!