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Summary: Are you looking for an entry level job and having a hard time finding one? Use these tips and you’ll find a job before you know it.
Job-searching is hard, there’s no doubt about that fact. If you’re new to the work force and don’t have much experience under your belt, it can be considerably harder. We’ve all heard the chicken versus the egg issue when it comes to job hunting: you need experience to get a job but you need a job to get experience. Or you hear that they don’t want to take a risk on someone who might leave after six months to a year. Don’t lose hope, because you WILL find something, whether it’s a perfect fit or a learning experience. To help you with your search, here are some of the best tips for entry-level job seekers.
- Don’t wait for a job to get started. Is it taking you forever to find a job and you feel stalled? There are plenty of things you can do in the meantime to boost your career and build your resume. For example, if you’re a writer, consider starting a blog or finding small freelance (or FREE) writing gigs to get your name out there. Volunteer your services for a nonprofit or do a part time unpaid internship.
- Do your research. Awesome! You got an interview! You just show up and be your awesome self, right? Wrong. Take the time to really research the company that you’re interviewing with. By being knowledgeable about what they do and who they are, you’ll show the interviewer that you’re serious about the position.
- Don’t make your cover letter all about you. Yes, your cover letter should tell them about who you are, but remember that your resume lists your credentials. Use the cover letter as an opportunity to tell the company why you’re a good fit for the position, how you can help them, and how you fit in well with the company’s mission and goals. Make each cover letter individualized to the relevant skills they’re looking for in a candidate.
- Treat your job search as a full time job. It can be really tempting to take this time to relax, sleep in and enjoy some time off, but finding a job is no joke. Get yourself up and showered in the morning and preferably out of the house to a coffee shop. Set daily hours for job-searching and give yourself structure.
- Networking, networking, networking. You’ve heard it again and again and that’s because it’s true! Networking is the KEY to finding a job these days, so get yourself out there. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Start reaching out to anyone and everyone. People like to help others, even if it’s your dad’s best friend from college’s niece – go for it and ask to meet them for coffee to pick their brain. The worst they can say is no.
- Keep your values in mind. Did you interview with a company that gave you a bad feeling in your gut but they offered you the job? You don’t have to take the position. Make sure that where you end up aligns with your values or you’ll likely be miserable at your new company. You should only work for a company that you believe in.
The following resources are helpful for finding entry level jobs:
