Ah, a full-time job offer. It is the holy grail of college and what you've worked so hard for the past four years. For those who are not ready to begin applying for full-time jobs, it is never too early to start preparing yourself for the job search and the best way to get prepared is to make the most of your time in college. That's right, put down the beer and pick up your laptop because it's time to start planning for your future!
1. Intern
I can not express enough how important it is to have internships in college. Internships are the gateway to a full-time job and give you valuable experience that you can put on a resume. Internships can also help determine whether or not the field you want to go into is one that you are passionate about.
When applying for internships, my advice is to aim high but don't be reluctant to take an internship at a smaller company. You never know, your dream internship could turn out to be an internship from hell and the internship at the smaller company could turn into your dream job.
2. Network
Keep and maintain a strong network. Use LinkedIn to its full advantage and stay connected to the people you meet at networking events or at your internship. You can network while interning by setting up informationals with people that work in departments you are interested in. Also, don't be afraid to reach out to your connections from time-to-time to check-in.
3. Stay up-to-date on current events
Read the news and not just your Facebook news feed. Stay current on what is happening in the industry that you are interested in.It is important to know which companies are struggling and which ones are succeeding, especially when you are on the job hunt. Also, staying updated on what companies are up to can really help when you're in an interview.
4. Cut down on the partying
I know, I'm a total buzzkill for saying this but try to cut down on the partying. I know college is a time to have fun but it is also a time to study and prepare for your future. Dedicate a few nights a week to doing homework, studying and looking for internships and jobs. Trust me, this will pay off in the long run.
5. Visit your college's career services department
Take advantage of the resources that are available on your campus. Set up time once or twice a semester to sit down with a career services advisor to discuss your goals and look over your resume and cover letter. They are there to help you and it is important to build a relationship with your advisor early on so that they can set you up for success.
6. Create and maintain a LinkedIn profile
LinkedIn is a very useful tool for networking and job searching. Keep your LinkedIn profile looking polished and updated so that recruiters can find you when they are looking for someone to fill a role. LinkedIn is also great for keeping relationships with the people you've networked with.
7. Don't stress!
When the time comes to apply for full-time jobs, do not stress out! I know it can be frustrating when it seems like all of your peers have accepted offers and you haven't, but your time will come. If you worked hard the past four years and you have done all of the above steps, I can assure you that you will be fine. Just don't give up and don't doubt yourself.
