10 Must-Knows for Job Seekers Fresh Out of School

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1. Ask For Help When Writing Your Resume

A solid resume is the key to success. But how do you make it solid? Get plenty of feedback. For example, the Cincinnati Public Library in Ohio, offers many classes on how to write a great resume, says Angela Farmer, manager of information and reference at Cincinnati Public Library. Check to see if your library has similar classes, or a job information center.

2. Tailor Your Cover Letter

Jennifer Cornell, technology instructor at Michigan’s Kalamazoo Public Library, which offers cover letter writing classes, says to customize your cover letter to the company and position you’re applying for. This shows you’ve done your research, which is worth the extra effort because it will get you noticed, Cornell says.

3. Research the Industry and the Companies You Want to Work for

Learn about the profession you want to break into. Judy Mitchell, reference librarian at the Hawkeye College Library in Iowa encourages students to research the field, the market and also the area that they want to live in. Check out books on the area or read Web sites devoted to your industry or area. The more you know about the company and industry, the more you will impress a potential employer in an interview.

4. Look Outside Your Major

Not finding enough job openings in your area of study? Cornell recommends scanning all job ads to maximize your options. “Look for something you’d like to do. You might get exposure to other people who know other people, and you’ll likely get placed where you want eventually,” she says.

5. Know Your Interview Etiquette

At one of Cincinnati’s job-hunting workshops, Farmer says the library videotapes attendees on a mock interview so they can watch and analyze their performance later. The interview is your best chance to show off your skills and personality, so check to see if your library has a similar program.

6. Attend Career Fairs

These events are often held at libraries and draw many people that may be useful for you to know during a job search. Employers and recruiters often talk about their companies and possible job openings at these events. You also can learn about the job market and collect business cards for reference and networking purposes.

7. Use Your Alumni Connections

Samantha Renfro, senior director of alumni relations for the Goizueta Business School at Emory University in Atlanta, says the university has career counselors and a job opportunities board for alumni, who also have full access to the school’s library. See if your college offers similar alumni career services or networking events.

8. Join Social/Business Networks

Sign up with online social networks, such as Facebook or LinkedIn, as they are also good avenues to seek out job opportunities. Renfro says Goizueta has its own LinkedIn group with more than 2,500 members and encourages alumni to network with each other.

9. Explore HR Departments

Not all companies advertise job openings on public networks. Cornell recommends regularly visiting the human resources Web sites of companies you’re interested in. Otherwise, you might never know they are hiring for your ideal position. “If you happen to see it, that’s good,” Cornell says. “But if you don’t, you miss out.”

10. Apply with Staffing or Placement Agencies

Many businesses use agencies rather than sift through hundreds of applicants. Cornell says placement agencies are perfect for people who aren’t good at “selling” themselves; the agency places you where you and your skills fit best. Locate agencies by asking your local librarian. It might start as a temporary position, but many become full-time. “You might file for a day, but if they like you, then they figure ‘what more can we do with her?’”

Recommended Resources

Best Resumes for College Students and New Grads
By Louise M. Kursmark
This guide helps evaluate all of your qualifications and how to make them shine in your resume. It also provides sample resumes and tips on how to write a great cover letter.

No-Nonsense Cover Letters
By Wendy S Enelow and Arnold G Boldt
Learn how to write “attention-grabbing cover letters that get interviews and job offers.” This book offers content and design advice and will tell you the “6 simple truths” about cover letters and the “10 key components” they need.

Make the Interview Count: Six Ps of Job Interviews
By MS Vision
Learn how to make a good impression in the most important part of your job application. This DVD discusses the “Six Ps of Job Interviews:” Preparation, Practice, Presentation, Powerful Interview, Post-Interview and Ponder the Position.

I’m on LinkedIn, Now What???
By Jason Alba
This book teaches you how to get the most out of the business networking site. It tells you all the benefits LinkedIn has to offer and recommends practices for you to expand your opportunities.

Expert Job Search Strategies: Career Plans and Goals
By Praxis Media Inc., JIST Works Inc.
This DVD helps you to strategize your job search so that you find a career that suits your interests and skills.

American Library Association's Getting a Job in a Tough Economy Toolkit
The Getting a Job in a Tough Economy toolkit is an interactive Web site with tips, narrative and suggested links, readings, podcasts, activities and checklists for those looking to change position, people who have been laid off, and others who are having difficulty finding the right position.