Congratulations Class of 2013

Congratulations! You have graduated from college and you are about to embark on a new career or you are about to enter the world of job procurement. Yes, technology has changed the climate of job interviews, resumes, and hiring. But, the paper resume is still needed. Most who have the final say in hiring are older and they like looking at a hard copy. And do not think of fancy. The older generation likes “old-fashioned” white paper and black ink. Never falsify information on your resume. This can sabotage a current job and future jobs too. Interviewers and hiring managers like a creative but friendly dialogue with prospective job candidates. Have a story prepared. Make your story memorable. There will be several applicants ahead of you and behind you. Many job candidates do not understand the concept of “professional appearance”. It is never a good idea to over dress. Make sure all clothing is properly fitted.

As a new grad, you may have had to choose between a large company and a smaller one. Often, a smaller company will give you more responsibilities and you end up with more job experience. Many new grabs want the notoriety of a large company. Both experiences are valuable. If you are fortunate to have a choice, educate yourself about the opportunity for growth and experience. Keep in mind that having strong work relationships will move you forward in your career faster than your skills will.

Getting up every morning and being prepared to work is very different from going to class every day. Learn to drink in moderation if that is something that is a part of your social life. Do not become an object of office gossip. It will do little for the enhancement of your career.

Learn how to fit in. Be yourself, but do not be the office “oddball”. How do you know if you’re the weird person? Do others invite you to lunch, or do you invite yourself? Do people stop by your cube, or are you always stopping by everyone’s cube? Corporate success depends on your ability to fit into the culture. Companies like inclusion, as long as you fit into the ‘inclusion’ they’ve decided for their organization.

But what lies ahead for the class of 2013? Although the economy shows signs that it is slowly rebounding, the unemployment rate for workers under the age of 25 is at 16.2-percent. That’s more than twice the national average. Graduates of 2013 need to find ways to make themselves stand out. And while these students reflect on their journey of how they made it through college, they’re also looking towards what lies ahead.

Source: “Job Market for Graduating Class of 2013 | KHON2.” KHON2 Job Market for Graduating Class Of2013 Comments. Web. 12 May 2013.