The job market is ever-changing, and can be tough for new graduates. With the right approach, a good amount of gumption and a bit of luck, you can find yourself with a great job right out of college.
If you’re unsure of just how to tackle your first job search in the real world, here are some tips on how to land your first corporate job, including how to make a professional resume website that helps you stand out from the crowd.
How to get your first corporate job
01. Figure out what you want
Knowing exactly what kind of position you want to snag will go a long way in helping you find the right match. After all, when it comes to getting a job, it’s important to remember that it’s not only about the company liking you; the feeling should be mutual. Since you spend 8- 12 hours a day at work, it’s essential to find yourself in an environment that you enjoy spending time in.
To determine what kind of job you want, grab a pen and paper and make a list of your strengths and transferable skills. Then, write down the types of tasks you’re good at and which ones you dislike. In addition to helping you find the right company to go after, these lists will help you figure out how to write your resume. Plus, it will also come in handy down the line, since many employers ask these questions in an interview.
02. Get on LinkedIn
If you’re not on LinkedIn already, then stop reading this post and open your account. After that, enhance your profile with details about your experience and skills. Make sure you adapt your style and descriptions to the companies you’ve worked with. For example, content writing interview tips wouldn’t necessarily apply to yoga instructors.
Engaging on LinkedIn is important for boosting your visibility, too. Add connections and join groups related to your skills and interests. Even better, write posts and comment on what others are saying. Recruiters and companies are constantly scanning LinkedIn for potential new hires. You never know which one of your contacts might have an in at a relevant company.
03. Research thoroughly
Once you’ve thought about the kind of corporate job you want, start researching companies in your field. When you find one that looks just right, take the time to learn about their culture, founders and key staff members. Find articles about them and scour their website from A to Z. Then, use LinkedIn and other social networks to find out if you have any connection to the company. Finally, if the company has a product you can use, try it out. Knowing the product inside and out can help you understand your potential added value for the company and will also give you a leg up in the interview.
04. Consider the hidden job market
Don’t fret if you don’t see a job opening listed at your dream company. As many as 85% of jobs today never get listed, with social media and internal recommendations stepping in where job boards left off. But don’t let this discourage you. Check the website’s “Career” page, consider everyone you know and think of creative ideas on how to get your foot in the door. You can also see whether the companies you’re interested in have posted any job vacancies on social media networks. The real job market for web-savvy people doesn’t usually extend the borders of Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
If you’ve tried everything but still can’t find a way in, be bold. Cold emailing a potential employer can be a great way to get someone’s attention. It all depends on what you write, how you write it and who you write it to. Just play it smart: since a cold email can be seen as intrusive, it’s best to use your tact and think long and hard about how you use this golden opportunity.
05. Create a resume website
While many companies require resumes to be sent through online applications, having a professional online presence will give you an advantage. Never underestimate the importance of making a website. You can create a CV using resume website templates, a creative and effective way to present your skills, show that you’re proactive and get your future employer’s attention. Take a look at these best resume templates to get you started — they include a wide range, including graphic design resume websites or personal websites.
06. Nail the first impression
Once you’ve garnered their attention, the next step is an interview. This is when all of your research comes in handy. But remember, you can blow an interview in an instant if you don’t make a great first impression. Arrive a few minutes early and bring a printed copy of your resume in hand. If the interview is virtual, make sure to test your internet in advance and be ready in a quiet environment to avoid external distractions or interruptions.
You should also come with a list of questions in mind. This is a way for you to show you’ve done your research and that you know exactly why you belong there.
07. Sell yourself
Remember that coyness or modesty has little place in a job interview. You know what you bring to the table and what makes you special, so make sure to clearly explain all the reasons they need you on board. You want to walk out of the room, leaving the interviewer with the impression that they’ll be far better off with you on the team.
08. Be ready to work. Hard.
If you’ve aced the interview and received an offer, start off by giving yourself a pat on the back.
Once you’re in, you have to be ready to work hard if you want to stay there. In the corporate world, you’ll likely find yourself starting out on the bottom, doing tasks that you’re far overqualified for. But if you work hard and excel, your efforts will pay off as you climb up the corporate ladder.
How long does it take to get a corporate job?
The time it takes to get a corporate job can vary depending on a number of factors, including your skills, experience and the specific job you’re applying for. You can generally expect it to take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to land a corporate job.
Here are some of the factors that can affect the time it takes to get a corporate job:
Your skills and experience: The more skills and experience you have, the more likely you are to be hired for a corporate job. If you are fresh out of college, it may take you longer to find a job, as you will be competing with more experienced candidates.
The specific job you are applying for: Some jobs are more competitive than others. For example, jobs in finance and consulting are typically more competitive than jobs in marketing and human resources.
The company you’re applying to: Some companies have longer hiring processes than others. For example, large corporations may have a more lengthy hiring process than small businesses.
Your location: The location where you are applying for jobs can also affect the time it takes to get a job. It might take longer to find a job in a major city than in a smaller town.