Dear Gabby,
I am a worried graduate. I am currently a resident of Florida, but I am originally from Ohio. I am 24 years old, single and currently live in an apartment with my cousin, who moved down to Florida with me.
I just graduated with my Bachelor’s in Business from Wright State University. I believe I am a very hard worker and any company would be smart to hire me.
Ever since I graduated and moved to Florida, I have been seeking out a business-marketing job anywhere I can find one.
I have come into a roadblock in my job search. I have been looking and applying at all of these places, but all of my past experience is at one company. Since I am from Ohio, they have never heard of the business I used to work for; therefore, my experience doesn’t seem to impress anyone.
My question for you is what can I do to get businesses attention? Do I need to change my resume, my look, get more experience? What would you do? Thank you for all of your time. I hope to hear a response from you.
Sincerely
Worried graduate,
Dear Worried graduate,
It’s always a disappointing situation when you’ve finally graduated, and all you want to do is jump in and start your career. However, it seems like job searching is one of the hardest things people have to do. I think as a student, the most rewarding thing after graduating is finding a job so that you can use your expensive skills you learned.
I think gaining experience is the best thing anyone can do. Ultimately, it’s not all about your education and your GPA—it’s the skills you gain from experience in working in your field. This lets the employer know that you have knowledge and work ethics.
I think you should try to find more experience in the industry that you want to start your career in. It might mean that you have to start at the bottom, such as an assistant, but that will benefit you in the long run.
Also, network, network, network! I think that is the best advice anyone has given to me. It’s going to give you such an advantage—everyone knows everyone.
I think resumes are important, however, I think experience is the most important. Focus on what you want, and how you can achieve your goals.
I think goal setting plays a big role in landing your dream job. Spend some time writing down what you want in a career and what steps you need to take in order to accomplish your goals.
Good luck,
Gabby