2010 College Grads - Did You Start Your Job Search In Your Junior Year?

A client, who is receiving a B.S. degree in Finance and Marketing this spring from a university in the mid-West, received a job offer from a prominent insurance company six weeks ago. How was this possible when according to an article published by CNNMoney.com on 11/18/2009, "This year's college graduates (2009) have a mind-boggling 40% fewer job prospects, and jobs for candidates with bachelor's degrees are expected to drop by 1% in 2010". So what was unique about my client that influenced a major corporation to extend a job offer nearly five months prior to graduation?

The Benefits of an Internship!

For starters, my client had a significant 'head-start' in his job search. During the summer after his sophomore year, he aggressively pursued and successfully secured an internship with the insurance company. Throughout his internship, he acquired invaluable business experience and capably interfaced with a myriad of departments, applying his MS Office skills to offload staffing activities, develop business models, and identify solutions to streamline operations.

As an intern, he gained the trust and respect of management and colleagues. During the summer prior to his senior year, once again he was invited to participate in their intern program, demonstrating the same professional resolve and commitment as he did the prior year. Management was not blind to this exceptional contributor.

The purpose of interning is to gain invaluable business experience, enhance one's networking, apply academics to practical business experience, and provide relevant content to one's resume. Internship is not intended as a guarantee for employment. The program is designed to hone one's business acumen and expertise in preparation for the 'real-world'.

Be Proactive With Your Job Search!

My client received his professional resume at the beginning of his senior year and aggressively commenced his job-search campaign. He methodically managed his search as a project, incorporating multiple channels including - social networking, a web resume, letters to corporate executives, and selective job posting boards. Of course, his resume was also sent to an executive at the corporation where he interned.

What differentiated my client from other college students? Cognizant of the prevailing 'job crunch', he was proactive with his job-search starting well in advance of his classmates. He was persistent, retaining a positive attitude and projecting a demeanor that exhibited 'self-confidence'. Armed with practical and relevant business experience, he acquired a professional resume, and managed his job search as a project. Of greatest importance, the relationship, trust, and vital contribution to the insurance company during his internship ultimately paid dividends resulting in a job offer.

The majority of 2010 college undergraduates will not be as fortunate. With a prevailing 10% unemployment rate, some may opt to proceed with their graduate studies. For others, working temporary, part-time, or 'freelance' opportunities while concurrently pursuing their job search may be a necessity as opposed to a choice! Remember, human nature is to explore, persevere, and embrace change! It's never too late to place a 'stake in the ground' and establish a road map in pursuit of your career!

Lenny Keitel runs Hudson Valley Resumes, a premier resume writing service with a penchant for crafting impressive resumes that inspire and motivate the hiring manager through its inspirational content, clarity, and visual appeal. We differentiate our clients with a unique "signature" or brand, positioning them a 'cut-above' other candidates. Our clients consistently project a superior level of self-confidence and positive image that sets them apart.

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