It’s 2008 all over again. Jobs are scarce; the world is weird and you just graduated in the hopes of finding a job. Except, it’s 2021. Everyone is working from home, and a lot of companies are not hiring. You were also probably robbed of an actual graduation and instead “attended” a virtual one (ew).
I’ll be graduating in May (and luckily my university will have an in-person graduation for the first time since the pandemic started), but I know a thing or two about how the economy can affect jobs and recent grads. Because of this, I started to think about what I’m going to do once I graduate and frankly am already doing.
Here are five things you should do right away if you’re graduating soon or have already graduated:
Update your resume.
I know this seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to review their resumes before applying to jobs, especially if they haven’t used it in a while. If you’re creating one from scratch, you should check out the Fashion Fundamentals course. There’s a whole module with some really helpful info on resume and cover letter writing.
Apply everywhere.
You should be doing this even before you graduate. Check your university’s career center for job and internship postings first. They will typically have listings that are in line with your major. Be sure to apply to jobs even if you think you’re not qualified for them. Sometimes we underestimate and sell ourselves short. Take the chance and apply. You have nothing to lose.
Continue learning.
Just ‘cause you’re graduating or have graduated doesn’t mean that the learning stops. You may have graduated college, but you’re yet to be a seasoned professional in whatever your dream job is. You have to start at the bottom all over again and work your way up. The only way to do that is by absorbing as much info and learning as much as you can. If you’re having a hard time finding a job right away, invest in certifications like the ones Hootsuite and Google offer. Those are considered very reputable nowadays and definitely something you can add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
Reach out to your network.
Yes, LinkedIn is a great resource, and you should definitely be using it, but your network doesn’t just end on social media. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your professors and even your college’s dean. They, too, are a part of your network. My dean is open to having 15-minute calls with students if they’re having an issue or have an important question. I got some great insight and an open door on my call with her. I’ve also asked prior and current professors for career advice, and even for advice on a dilemma I had regarding an internship. These individuals not only serve as a resource for you, but they’ve probably been in your industry for quite some time and have lots of useful advice and tips.
Stay positive.
I know this sounds wishy-washy, but finding a job right after graduation is hard enough on a normal year. It is 10 times more difficult during a pandemic. Especially when we have no idea when the world will fully go back to normal yet. So, it’s important to keep trying and not lose faith. Everyone has something unique they can offer; it’s just a matter of time before you find the right fit for you.
Sally Espinosa
Follow me on IG @sallythatprgirl!