I am currently working with several young men and women. Some have already graduated from college, some are about to graduate. They do not have a job or internship in hand. The competition is fierce. A number have moved back in with their parents to save on expenses.
Eilene Zimmerman’s recent article in the New York Times offers some valuable advice for young people. I’ve summarized some of the key points.
- Don’t rest on your laurels; potential employers want to see some serious signs of career building activity.
- If you can’t find work, focus on developing skills and learning about your industry.
- Use this time to build and maintain your network; join an employment support group in your area. Investigate Priority Two, Dare to Hope and the Career Development Center at Jewish Family Services. They offer free or lost cost services to job seekers of all ages.
- Learn how to build your social media campaign by employing LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to best advantage. If you are unsure how to maximize your efforts, download Jennifer Stockdale’s special report “The Geek Ambassador’s Guide to Using Social Media to Find Work You Love” in the report section of this website.
- Learn and practice the art of informational interviewing. If you need help, please contact me for a complimentary, no obligation session.
- Cultivate friends, family, professors, and all members of your network to secure information interview with corporate and nonprofit decision-makers in your chosen field.
- Above all, don’t give up. Develop a plan and then work your plan.
Good luck!