Job Searching: Top Five Tips for Millennials
Jun 24, 2015
If you’re a Millennial searching for a job, here are five tips that can help improve your search.
1. Make your cover letter stand out
When writing a cover letter make sure it is not a summary of your resume. A cover letter should highlight strengths specifically. Use your cover letter to describe additional details that you weren’t able to squeeze onto your resume. When writing a cover letter it is a great opportunity to highlight what you’re going to bring to the position and company. It is also a good idea to research the point of contact so that you address the correct contact in the greeting. Make sure to offer examples of goals that were hit in last positions.
2. Network
Make sure to attend networking events in the field you are trying to start a career. You may even want to volunteer to help with the event so that you will have an opportunity to meet more people. Social media is a great way to gain more contacts and put your name out there. If you have not already done so it is a good time to start Building Your Online Presence through updating your LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter profiles and interacting with future employers on your social media accounts. In addition, don’t forget to do your homework! If you are going to an event for a certain industry be prepared to have conversations about that industry.
3. Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to get involved in the community and meet people. As a volunteer, you are able to meet many different people and build connections. Do not underestimate the relationships you are making. It is a real relationship and when a job comes up that you qualify for you will be the first on the list.
4. Always follow up
No matter the occasion make sure to follow up! If you have an interview, make sure to send a “Thank You” card. If you meet someone at a networking event make sure to follow up via LinkedIn or e-mail with a short message. No matter the occasion whenever you meet someone always take the time to follow up so that you stay connected with that individual.
5. Ask Questions
Always ask questions! How do you know if you do not ask? If you are asking questions in an interview it shows that you are engaged and interested in the conversation. Also, it will help clarify the interviewer and the interviewee’s expectations.
Here are some simple questions to ask:
What do you like most (least) about your work?
Can you describe a typical workday or week?
What type of education and experience do you need to remain successful in this field?
What are the future career opportunities in this field?
If you keep these insights in mind as you create your own strategy of finding that perfect job, you will have a good understanding of the process, and you will be ableto act on tips that make you successful.
Happy hunting!
