By: Steph
Are you a student looking for an internship or a recent grad in search of your first job? Congratulations, and welcome to the exciting world of adulting! The thought of jumping into the job market can be a bit scary, but fear not, my friend. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey through the ins and outs of landing your dream job. We'll be your trusty guides, showing you the ropes and giving you insider tips on how to shine like a superstar in your job search. So, buckle up and get ready to learn about crafting the perfect resume and mastering the art of networking. It's time to kickstart your career and show the world what you're made of!
Start With a Social Media Cleanup
Psst, here's a little secret - employers these days are snooping on your social media profiles. Scary, right? So, before you start sending out resumes, take a moment to do an internet search on yourself and make sure there are no embarrassing photos or content associated with your name (see Lindsay Lohan infamous Mykonos dancing below as reference). If you find anything that could potentially harm your chances of landing your dream job, get rid of it.
Show off Your Education
Your education is like the crown jewel of your resume, so make sure to show it off by including your degree or expected graduation date at the top. And if you have an impressive GPA, go ahead and flaunt it.
Use Buzzwords from the Job Description
Using buzzwords from the job description in your resume can be like adding a sprinkle of fairy dust to catch the attention of potential employers. Just make sure to use them sparingly and only when they make sense in the context of your resume.
Use a Professional Email Address
Your email address says a lot about you, so make sure to use a professional one that includes your name, such as firstname.lastname@email.com. Avoid using any email addresses that are unprofessional, like partyguy@email.com or sexykitten123@email.com. A professional email address can make a good first impression and show potential employers that you take yourself seriously. And if you don't have a professional email address yet, it's easy to create one for free on platforms like Gmail or Outlook.
To include a photo or not?
As a general rule, it's not necessary or recommended to include a picture on your resume, unless you are specifically applying for a job where appearance is a crucial factor (such as modeling or acting). It's best to focus on presenting your skills, experience, and qualifications through the content of your resume, rather than your physical appearance. This way, potential employers can focus solely on your professional abilities and suitability for the position. Save the headshot for your LinkedIn profile.
Templates – should it be stiff and corporate or creative and artistic?
While a fancy Canva template may look impressive, it's important to consider whether it's appropriate for the industry and position you're applying for. In many industries, a standard template is more appropriate and can be more effective in getting your resume noticed. A straightforward layout that emphasizes clarity and simplicity can make it easier for potential employers to quickly identify your qualifications and experience. Ultimately, the choice of template comes down to personal preference and the job you're applying for – think digital marketing versus accounting positions.
Formatting is Key
When it comes to your resume, formatting is like the magic spell that can make it stand out. Keep it simple and easy to read with bullet points and clear headings. And whatever you do, don't send your resume in Word format - convert it to a PDF so it looks the same on any device.
Relevant Experience
Even if you don't have a ton of professional experience yet, you can still showcase other experiences that relate to the job or internship you're applying for. This could be volunteering, internships, or class projects. Make sure to describe your experiences in a way that shows how they relate to the position.
Customize Your Resume
Don't be a basic and send the same resume to every job or internship you apply for. Customize your resume for each position by highlighting the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job or internship. And please, don't forget to change the company name when applying to different positions.
Keep it Short and Sweet
As a new grad or student, you don't need to write a novel. Keep your resume concise and to the point by highlighting your best achievements. And don't try to pad your resume with irrelevant information or experience, or you might come across like a frog trying to pass itself off as a prince. It shouldn’t be longer than a page.
Reach Out to Recruiters on LinkedIn
After applying for a job or internship, why not go the extra mile by reaching out to the recruiters on LinkedIn to express your interest and let them know you have applied? This can help you stand out from other candidates and show that you're as proactive.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread
Proofread it for typos and grammatical errors. One little mistake can make the difference between getting a call back and getting lost in the pile of resumes. And if you're not sure about your proofreading skills, ask a friend or family member to take a look.
Network Like a Pro
Don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend career fairs, industry events, and reach out to friends, family, and professors who can help you find leads and connections. ntroduce yourself to your professors at the beginning of the semester and express your interest in the course and the subject matter. And don't forget to thank them at the end of the semester for their guidance and support. You never know where your professors' connections and recommendations may lead you in your job or internship search.
So, there you have it - the keys to unlocking your future career. Remember, this is just the beginning of your journey, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Don't be afraid to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. Embrace the challenges, and keep pushing forward towards your goals. And if things don't go according to plan, don't sweat it. You've got this! Remember, every experience is a learning opportunity, and even setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. So, go out there, be bold, and show the world what you're made of. Your dream job is out there, waiting for you to seize it. Good luck, and have fun!
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