Career Tips for Recent College Graduates

Congratulations on your recent graduation! You’ve worked hard over these past years and endured all the challenges that came along with finishing your degree during a pandemic. Hats off to you for your diligence to stick with it and earn your diploma!  

Four career tips as a recent graduate 

The pandemic has not been easy on any of us, and you’re about to enter the working world at a time when the way we do things has shifted quite a bit. To get started on the right foot, follow these four tips as you move forward into your career: 

1. Never stop learning.

It may feel like you’ve learned more than enough over your college experience, and you most certainly have. But the reality of the situation is this: though much of the knowledge you’ve gained is applicable to your future job, you’re going to be learning a lot on the job. The takeaway? Be prepared to keep your mind nimble and curious! It’s a lifelong endeavor that will help you stay relevant in an ever-changing world. As you begin to check out job descriptions, make plans for things you’ll need to learn as you enter the next chapter of your life.   

2. Get comfortable with the idea of remote work.

Though remote work options have been around for a long time, they became a necessity for many workplaces during the pandemic. And though some employees have since returned to the office, many others have not. You’ll likely encounter job opportunities for fully remote employees, and it will help you to build the work ethic it takes to maintain a “home office.” This includes focus, planning, daily routines for efficiency and productivity, an area where you can work distraction-free, and more.  

3. Stay flexible.

If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s the importance of remaining flexible. This is a skill that will carry you far in today’s working world. Nothing is static and rules are constantly changing. This is related to everything from workplace safety to connectivity to hybrid work models and everything in between. The nature of your industry itself may be in constant flux, especially if you’ve chosen a career in health care or technology. Keep an open mind and stay flexible to be successful.  

Set up a LinkedIn profile.

This is the number-one-way recruiters find potential candidates. Be sure your LinkedIn profile includes a professional headshot (have one taken or take one yourself using filters on your phone), skills, connections, recommendations, professional group affiliations, and honors and awards. And after you’ve set up your LinkedIn profile, take a look through your social media pages and take down any posts or photos a recruiter might find less-than-professional. Part of any job screening is an internet search to uncover your character—so put your best self out for the world to see!  

Work with a recruiter

If you feel overwhelmed and could use help finding your first job, talk to a recruiter. And a perfect place to start is HireCall. To learn more, visit our job search page or reach out today!