So you’ve completed the first, most important step toward advancing your career or starting down a brand new professional path. You’ve gone back to school and earned a college diploma. Congratulations!
Now that you’ve got the credentials you need to get ahead in your field, it’s time to focus on landing that first position – the dream job that will let you apply all that you’ve worked so hard to learn.
Most recent graduates know the fundamentals of a successful job search and interview, such as creating a professional resume, arriving ten minutes early, and following-up with a thank-you email. But there are a few other insider tricks every job candidate should be aware of to truly maximize their hiring potential.
So whether you’ve just finished
accounting courses
or completed
healthcare training
, check out this infographic for lesser-known expert tips on landing your first job after graduation.
Expert Tips to Land Your First Job after Career College
Create a customized cover letter
“Your resume might be impressive – but the cover letter will make or break your chances” – Business Insider
- A clear statement that explains why you’re passionate about your field
- How your previous work and/or life experiences have prepared you for the job
- Why you would love to work for the organization (to prove you’re familiar with the company)
Get noticed … Prepare insightful “reverse-interview” questions
“Candidates who truly interviewed me and the company were at the top of my list.” – Brian Fino, CEO of Fino Consulting
- What makes you excited to work here?
- What do you find most challenging about your role?
- Where do you see this organization going in the next 5-10 years?
Use body language to communicate confidence
Body language expert, Amy Cuddy from Harvard Business School found that 2-minute power poses reduce cortisol (stress hormone) by 10% and raise testosterone (confidence hormone) by 20%
- Sit up tall with legs and arms uncrossed
- Make regular eye contact and smile
- Try a 2-minute “power pose” (like the “wonder woman”) in private, before your interview
Polish your LinkedIn profile
A recent survey by Jobvite revealed that 45% of recruiters and hiring managers examine applicants’ social media profiles to confirm their qualifications
- A recent, professional-looking photo (no selfies!)
- Up-to-date history of employment and related experience
- Use keywords as SEO is a key element on LinkedIn
- Endorsements from past employers, organizations where you’ve volunteered, and/or instructors
References:
http://www.businessinsider.com/why-cover-letters-are-important-2014-9
http://blog.ted.com/10-examples-of-how-power-posing-can-work-to-boost-your-confidence/
http://www.workopolis.com/content/advice/article/the-three-things-that-employers-want-to-find-out-about-you-online/