December Graduate Job Market

Many graduates enter college with credits that enable them to graduate early.  While this is good for the pocketbook, it forces a new graduate to job search in an off season.  Many companies simply do not recruit in the winter months. Many graduates are forced to accept jobs that are not what their educational pursuits were intended for.  There are a growing number of students graduating in December either a semester early or a semester late. Jumping into the job market outside of the traditional time has created frustrating obstacles for career aspirations.

For one thing, some companies, including many large financial-services firms, retailers and consultants, recruit at schools in the fall for summer hires. Others set aside entry-level hiring until the spring for a summer or fall start.

But there are some perks to graduating in December. Graduates can get a jump on entry-level hiring at small or midsize companies, since many of those companies’ budgets open up for the New Year and they are more likely to hire on the spot.

To find a job lead, tap family and friends you’ve connected with over the holidays. And try to expand your network at any New Year’s parties you’re attending. You also can join alumni groups on LinkedIn or Facebook and connect with fellow alumni, even if you don’t know them personally. Explain your recent graduation and interests and how you would like to get some career advice and learn about the person’s employer. Recruiters and potential employers will undoubtedly ask about the timing of your graduation, so you need to cast your reasons—and what you got out of it—in a positive light. Be honest about the reasons for your December graduation. If you cut down on school hours to work part time in college, divulge this information.  It shows work experience and responsibility and be a positive rather than a negative. There are companies that have unexpected growth or vacancies and need to fill positions immediately.  This can often present favorable opportunities for December graduates.

If you graduated early, point out relevant internships or classes that helped you accelerate and highlight how you successfully managed a heavier course load, which shows how you will be able to handle various tasks at work. It is not advisable to ride it out.  View your early graduation as an opportunity.

Source: Glazer, Emily. “Off Season Job Hunting.” Wall Street Journal, Web. 1 Jan. 2013.

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