Congratulations Graduates!!!
Last weekend, I finally graduated too. I’m scared, ecstatic, feeling free, feeling lost, and just all around feeling like I’m going in circles with my emotions. There is no need to panic. I’m sure all of us have heard “what are you doing now that you have graduated, what are your plans, what’s your first step?” Although it is just proper small talk, I don’t think most people realize how intimidating these questions may be to a graduate. The way I have been avoiding the conversation is by simply making a joke, “I think I’m going to join the Cabaret in Berlin, I think that’s my calling.” The other person just laughs and the whole awkward conversation is avoided.
So you’re not alone in this. We all need time to sit back and realize what is best for ourselves. Going from graduate to job seeker to careerist is going to take a lot of time, especially if you want to succeed and achieve happiness. Instead take everything one day at a time, step by step.
I’m hoping to find a job in Social Media and Marketing. I know that this is my niche and something I am extremely interested in. Even though you may or may not be searching in the same field, some of my steps that I’ve been taking may be helpful to you. Here’s what I have been working on the last few weeks in order to sort things out and prepare myself for the tedious job searching extravaganza.
1. Google Yourself!
Check images and web results for any photos or other information about you that you don’t want an employer to see. Believe it or not, an employer will Google you!
Google Profile: If you update this mentioning you have graduated, your interests, and what field you are looking to get into, this page will pop up first when you google your name! Make sure to add a professional photo, because that will be seen too!
2. Update Social Networks
I have always had a Facebook. Now I have an account with Twitter, Mashable, Reddit, BlogCatalog, Plancast, Delicious, ShesConnected, and the list goes on. If I want to get my foot into the Social Media field, it is a must I make a strong social online presence.
For every field, I recommend making a LinkedIn page if you don’t already have one and make sure your Facebook is clean and presentable. Hint: If you want to keep your Facebook or a different social site personal (you have that right!) check your security settings, but also think about changing your name.
3. Write down a list of companies or firms that you would be interested in working for.
Then write down a job description of your dream job there. Follow them on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook for updates on job openings. Search online for individuals that have the same job title you are pursuing and get in touch with them. If you say you are a graduate and interested in learning more about what they do and how they got there, they will more than likely be willing to help you.
4. Check out these three AWESOME articles about the best companies and firms.
1. 100 Best Companies to Work For
2. 100 Best Blogs Written by Women for Business
3. Top 10 Women-Run Companies
5. Follow influential people, Connect with others that share a similar interest.
Comment on articles that benefited you in some way. Talk to people who are going through the same thing as you (online and in person!) In other words, NETWORK!
Here are few influential business women I follow on Twitter:
1. @Dawn_Abraham, Dawn Abraham
2. @Deemyers, Dee Dee Myers
3. @Elena Verlee, Elena Verlee
4. @thenextwomen, Simone Brummelhuis
5. @smallbiztrends, Anita Campbell
More Helpful Links:
About Me: Set up your own page with a bio, photo, and links to where you can be a found online.
AfterCollege: A search engine for entry-level and internships. You can even search top employers.
Plancast: A great way to share events and plans for networking purposes.
TalentZoo: A search engine for jobs in Marketing, Advertising, Social Media, and Creative Fields
