Getting the job you want

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There are a handful of steps to take in order to stand out among applicants.

Finding a job can be difficult, especially when you have just graduated from college. A lot of employers are looking for experience in their field. While experience is important, there are other ways that you can land the job you want.

Extracurricular activities

Being involved in activities, clubs and organizations outside of classes is crucial. Employers receive resumés upon resumés with all the same credentials. Having high grades will help you stand out, but it is what you do in your free time that will make the difference. Employers are looking for people who have the same values as the company they are hiring for. Plus, most organizations have a yearly community service quota to fill, and if you are already participating in those activities, it makes the company, as well as yourself, look good.

Show your personality

It is cutthroat out there. It’s OK – even encouraged – to show your personality through your application. Include videos you have made, poems or raps you have written, pictures you have drawn and so on. The key is to make sure that they are appropriate – not only for the workplace but also appropriate to the job you are applying for.

Use social media

If you haven’t already created your LinkedIn profile, put this paper down and go make it now. In all seriousness, having an active and up-to-date LinkedIn profile is so important. Some employers don’t bother to read the resumé that you submitted; they look you up on LinkedIn instead. Your profile can make a huge difference if you get that position or the next person does. While you’re at it, make sure that your Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and other social media accounts are appropriate or set them to private. It is practically guaranteed that your future employer will check up on you and what type of person you portray yourself to be.

Be your own boss

Start a house painting business for the summer. Tutor your friends or your friend’s siblings or your friend’s sibling’s friends. Babysit, landscape for your neighbours, grocery shop for the elderly in your neighbourhood. Not only will your creativity and innovation help you to stand out with future employers, you may also discover something that you are passionate about.

Aside from all of this, it is important to start your job search right away. Everyone is going to go on a few interviews and not be offered the position. The earlier that you put yourself out there, the earlier it will be that you land yourself a job. Using one or all of these tips will help you to stand out from the crowd and keep you at the front of the line for that coveted position.