Job Search Tips for New Grads

If you’re a graduating this spring, you may be looking for help with your job search. Career Services  is here to help you reach your goals!

Get started with these top 10 tips:

1. Set a goal.Define what you have to offer employers and what positions you want. If you are not sure what type of work you are looking for, meet with a Career Consultant, reference the Career Compass for your major, or attend a Where can I go with my degree? workshop.
2. Evaluate your skills.On your resumé be sure to include the skills that you have gained from school, paid work, volunteering and other extra-curricular experiences. Taking adequate time to reflect on your skills will make writing your resumé.
3. Tailor your resumé.You are more likely to be invited to interviews if you spend time tailoring your resumé to the job posting. Think quality over quantity! Attend a Resumé & Cover Letter workshop or visit the Resumé Learning Centre online or at 474 UMSU University Centre. 
4. You don’t need to meet 100% of qualifications in the job posting.Qualifications in a posting are an employer’s wish list and often successful candidates do not meet all of these the points. If you are interested in the position and feel you can do the job, apply!  
5. Access UMConnect.This job board for UM students includes part-time, summer and full-time postings, with up to 40 new additions daily. View the events calendar frequently to learn about on-campus and off campus career.
6. Use a range of job posting boards.When using general job boards be thoughtful with keyword searches. Consider keywords that reflect both your strengths and possible job titles that may interest you. Accessing industry specific job boards will also support a more targeted job search.  An industry job board section exists within UM Occupational Library profile pages. Also check out UM Get Hired every Monday.  
7. Develop relationships with employers.Go beyond job boards and access the hidden job market! Connect with employers directly to develop relationships and learn about positions that aren’t posted. Identify potential employers within industry associations and employer directories. Ask organizations of interest about upcoming hiring, types of roles and application advice.   
8. Network, Network,Network! Talk to people in your friend circles about what you’re looking for and what your goal is. Volunteer for a day to help build your skills and meet people or reach out to someone for an informational interview. Career Services offers workshops on networking, mentoring and LinkedIn.
9. Attend career fairs and employer information sessions. These are great opportunities to network and distribute your resumé. Some organizations have specific hiring programs for new graduates, so keep your eyes open for those opportunities. UM’s weekly Get Hired newsletter also features these on-campus and off-campus events.  
10. Be kind to yourself!Job searching is difficult, and you are doing your best. Celebrate your small successes when you make a new contact or identify a potential employer. Keep in mind that some of your efforts may not help you immediately but could greatly support your career in the longer-term.

If you need assistance with your job search, connect with Career Services!  Consider attending an upcoming workshop.  Career Services workshops are available to alumni indefinitely and one-to-one appointments are available to alumni up to 6 months after graduation.

Career Services Staff