When filling out job applications online is not working!

We have all heard the story that persistence pays off. This statement is true but make sure you are directing your energy in the right direction. A recent CareerXroads survey shows that only 15% of positions were filled through applying to positions online. This is quite staggering when you think that the mindset of MANY college students is to continue applying until something sticks. You may apply to 50+ positions without receiving a single callback depending on the market in which you are applying. In today’s job market you need to be proactive rather than reactive. Even if you are not graduating this semester or next semester or not until next year, you still need to be thinking of your future job search.

Here are 3 tips to become more intentional with your search and start gaining results!

1.       Join LinkedIn! You are a budding professional and this is not Facebook. LinkedIn is a professional networking tool which can assist your job search in many ways, including, actually meeting contacts that work directly in your field of interest. For more information please read: http://spartancareers.blogspot.com/search/label/linkedin’

2.       You need to talk to people. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking. Professionals are just like you. Do not be afraid to reach out to someone who works in your field of interest. Remember, they were a college student at one time as well. Setup an informational interview to ask them questions about their path, the company they work for and their advice for you as a transitioning professional.

3.       Talk to the people you already know! You are the only one who can spread the message that you will be job searching soon. Remember relatives, professors, professionals in your life, family friends, supervisors, etc. can all be great people to assist you in reaching that post-graduation position.

“If you don’t go after what you want, you’ll never have it. If you don’t ask, the answer is always no. If you don’t step forward, you’re always in the same place.” – Nora Roberts

Now is the time to take control of your job search!

Best Regards,

Jessie Bush

Assistant Director, Career Coaching & Professional Development