New Grads: Be Ready When the Market Opens Up This Year
We’ve spoken to some new grads who are already a month or two into their serious after-college job search and feeling a bit discouraged. A recent Washington Post article says, “Millions of new college graduates are entering the workforce just as entry-level job prospects are fizzling. Despite the strong labor market, it’s becoming tougher for newcomers to break in. Hiring is slowing, especially for recent graduates, with coveted white-collar employers pulling back on new postings.”
This summer may see many grads in a holding pattern. But, economists predict that the job market will open up late this year or in early 2025.
Here are some ways to use this time productively.
Work on building skills through online courses or certifications. Add to your business or marketing degree by layering on training that will make you stand out to a hiring manager. Here are some suggestions:
- Social media analytics
- Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- Coding and app development
- HR courses
- Customer service and sales
- Grammar, writing and public speaking
Here’s a post by themuse.com with 47 free online classes that will help you advance your career.
Join a professional association. Many associations offer discounted memberships to students and new grads. For the price of a monthly chicken dinner, you’ll get the opportunity to hear speakers who are experts on industry trends and meet established professionals in the industry who may be able to help you find a great opportunity.
Develop a side gig or take on part time work. Side gigs are a great way to build and display your skills, and employers appreciate workers who have an entrepreneurial mindset. You’ll build your sales skills, develop efficient office and business skills (like billing, follow up, customer service, and user experience enhancement.) The extra income will help you pay bills and invest in things that will make you stand out as a candidate, like a professional wardrobe and upgraded technology.
Invest in expanding your network and your visibility. Make sure you have a polished and professional online presence. Spend time cleaning up posts and other content that doesn’t present you in your best light. Create an online portfolio of your best work (especially if you’re in a creative or technical field.) Connect with your alumni association and campus career office to see if they can help you meet people in your target industry.
Use online job search sites regularly. You can follow companies and get job-matching alerts on LinkedIn, Monster, Indeed, Glassdoor, and, of course, on Podium X.