I know we are all sick of hearing, “It’s impossible to get a job because the economy is so terrible.” So, instead of looking at the situation negatively, use the following helpful tips I collected from working professionals.
These simple suggestions will make you a more appealing candidate for a job or at the very least, get you into “professional mode.”
- Intern where you want to work: If you can get your foot in the door early and prove yourself an excellent worker, you have a better chance at securing a full-time position. If the company you are interested in only offers an unpaid internship, do it.
- ALWAYS send a follow up email after an interview: Go the extra mile and show your potential employee you are truly dedicated to taking on this position. A polite gesture can make all the difference.
- Always have a pen: Something this simple shows that you are always prepared. Don’t be rustling around in your bag at an interview looking for something to write with.
- Learn ANYTHING technical that you can: In our society where technology has just about taken over, knowing more tech stuff can make you indispensable to an employer. Know the basics (like Microsoft office,) but if you can, learn about computer hardware.
- If you can, take a graphic design class: Knowing programs other than Quark are to the best of your advantage. Indesign, Photoshop, and Dreamweaver are programs often used in the PR/Advertising field.
- Write well (Duh.): Have a strong resume and strong writing samples. Spelling and grammatical errors are unacceptable. This idea is beaten into our brains every day, but SERIOUSLY, make your work flawless.
- Get a mentor: Find someone in the profession or a teacher that is willing to donate time to you. Email them your work before you give it in. Have them look over your resume. Call them with questions. A mentor can be a guiding light when you need one the most.
- Be Organized (Another Duh): Have extra copies of your resume easily accessible. Make sure your portfolio is professional looking and has your latest work first. Don’t give in crinkled papers with stains on them!
- Save complimentary emails: Make a file with complimentary emails from professors, former bosses, or other people related to your field. Besides being a confidence booster, some professionals suggest printing out copies and sticking them in the back of your portfolio. It shows an employer your outstanding work ethic.
- Be willing to wear different hats: Portray your enthusiasm to learn. If the employer asks if you know something and you don’t, tell them you will learn it.
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