You have just graduated from college, degree in hand, now what?
Undoubtedly this can be a challenging time for any college graduate. Joining the workforce after acquiring your degree can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming because the whole hiring process is so foreign. Understandably, recent graduates will have little experience in resume writing and interviewing.
Resumes can be especially difficult because chances are there won’t be much in the way of work experience listed in your work history. Considering that most recent college graduates will be applying for an entry-level position, the playing field will be more level with most of the candidates having the same or similar qualifications. Instead, the focus should be on any accomplishments achieved while at college. This means internships, volunteer opportunities and any other extra-curricular activities that would be an advantage to you being chosen for the job you are considering.
It will be beneficial to prepare as much as possible for your first important interview. Considering a college graduate will not have a great amount of work experience, most of the interview questions will focus on the student. The concentration will be on why you are interested in the job and what you will and can bring to the company you are applying to. The questions a prospective employer will ask will be relative to college and your experience there, questions about any work experience, personal inquiries and then questions relating to the position and your knowledge of the company you want to work for. In realizing this, it would be beneficial to have your answers ready. So giving it some thought prior to the interview would be extremely advantageous. There are all kinds of guides that can assist you so that you are better prepared with the answers you provide during the interview.
Of course, you will also want to dress in your best business attire. A suit is preferable, so if you don’t have one, now would be a good time to invest in one. You will learn early on that first impressions are what count during a job interview and are instrumental in you receiving the position you want. Making a great first impression will set you apart from the rest of the applicants and give you that competitive edge you are looking for. After all, once you achieve getting your foot in the actual door, you will want to do everything you can to keep it there.
