A Guide For The Recent Grad

You’ve taken your last set of finals, received your diploma, and are excited about starting a new chapter in your life…now what? Finding your first job post-graduation might be the toughest and most frustrating time in your life thus far. Never fear, the Wilson Group is here! We have outlined three tips to help you through this stressful time.

Find a Mentor:
The best way to know where to start your career is to learn from the past life of someone you look up to. Find a mentor that is in the same field you are hoping to go into and talk to them about how they got started. Not only will they give you advice on how to kick off your career, but they also might be a useful contact for networking purposes. It is always easier to follow a recipe than make up your own, so follow their recipe for success and try to follow it. However, like any good recipe, you can always stray a bit from the path and make it your own. This person has been exactly where you stand today, so they know how to help you through the ups and downs of starting your professional life.

Don’t Be Too Picky:
After four years of countless all nighters and what seems like an eternity of research papers and complicated classes, it is hard not to feel as though you deserve more than an entry level position. However, your first few years in the workforce may not be, and will not be your end all be all. Your first job does not define you, so look it as more of a stepping stone to reaching your dream career. After all, we all have to start somewhere and gain experience. When applying for jobs you should apply for your dream positions, but you should also think about not being as picky and take an entry level position. You never know where that job can take you, for all you know, you could be running that company one day!

Don’t Lose Hope:
Your mailbox is full of rejection emails and you are on the breaking point of giving up, but don’t lose hope! There are thousands of other recent grads out there feeling exactly the way you are. It seems as though every day you see someone else posting on social media about getting their dream job at company X, or getting into a prestigious graduate school abroad, but stop comparing yourself to those people, and focus on your own life. Social comparison is the thief of joy, especially during this time in your life, and Facebook only heightens the feelings of inadequacy. Don’t let other’s success get in the way of your own. Instead look at them as a resource, talk to them about how they got their job, and who knows, they may even be able to help you get a job. Success is not a race, you have the rest of your life to be in the workforce, so don’t stress so much if something doesn’t fall into your lap immediately, you will come out more resilient in the long run.

For more tips on starting your career off on the right foot, visit our website.

Job Searching in December

The holiday season is slow when it comes to job searches. However, this is the prime time to be searching, as everyone else assumes recruiters have backed off. Don’t miss the opportunities the holidays bring by loosening the reigns on your job search. Recruiters are still out in full force and you could be just the one they are looking for! We have compiled some tips to help you navigate your job search this holiday season.

Networking

Holidays are filled with parties and schmoozing. What more perfect time to network than times like these? Put yourself out there by introducing yourself to as many people as possible. Be open in communicating with those you meet about your job search. Others may not be aware that you are looking for a job, however, if you mention to them you are in the market for a job, you may be surprised with what people have to offer!

Reconnect

There is not a more appropriate time than the holidays to reach out to old acquaintances. Are there old people you once knew that could be potential connections (old roommates, friends, colleagues)? Consider calling these friends to wish them a happy holiday and see what they have been up to. This could open the door to job opportunities, and if not you will at least reestablish some cherished relationships! If a phone call is too intimidating, a greeting card with a personalized life update is a sufficient alternative to let the person know you are seeking connections!

Leave Doors Open

There are many opportunities that only arise during the holiday season. For example, temporary jobs. Although they are not glamorous, they may give you just the leverage you need for landing a full time position after the holiday season. Similarly, volunteer opportunities are at their peak during the holiday seasons. Look to serve at different functions around your city as a way to network and gain skills for your resume.

Take advantage of your job search this holiday season by putting yourself out there and remaining confident. Employers will notice the extra effort you exude during a time where most are relishing in holiday festivities!

We wish you a merry job searching holiday season!

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