Life after graduation can be hard to navigate, especially when you are trying to find a job. Whether you are looking for a part-time job or a full-time job, it can be difficult to know exactly where to look. Gone are the days, for the most part, where you could simply walk into a business or institution and handed them your resume with the hopes of someone calling you back for an interview. Instead, there are now many different options for pursuing and discovering job opportunities. Here are 3 great places to look for jobs after graduation.

Classifieds

Most newspaper publications have a classifieds section which lists offers and openings for rental properties, houses for sale and employment opportunities. Industry-specific publications have classified sections as well. The classified ads are a great place to start looking for a job after graduation as most ads are current and can typically give a clear indication of the job duties and type of person they are looking for. Also, many of the jobs in the classifieds are considered entry-level, making them perfect for someone who has recently graduated from high school or college. You can typically access the classifieds of newspapers and other publications, either online or in print. You generally will have to pay for a print version of a publication, but sometimes local libraries will have daily newspaper prints and current publications available for free as long as you utilize them within the library. According to Job-Hunt.org, “these days, many newspapers have put those Help Wanted ads on their websites. For the web, these are usually unique listings, specific to the location. It is worth checking out your local newspaper's website to see if they post their own classified job ads on their website”

Online

We live in an ever-increasing digital world and job hunting is not an exception. There are several great websites dedicated solely to job searching and connection. These online job sites are useful as they allow you to be very specific in your search, as well as connect directly with employers. Sites like LinkedIn are very popular. According to Independence University, “the greatest advantage to using LinkedIn to connect with employers and apply for jobs is that there’s almost no limit to the amount of humble bragging you can put on your profile that wouldn't fit on a standard resume. Upload portfolio pieces, create an extensive list of skills and flaunt your entire education or employment history.” Other websites like Indeed.com act as a repository for jobs across many industries, locations, and experience levels.

Campus Career Centers

College campuses are another place to search for jobs. Many colleges and universities have career centers designed to help current and former students obtain employment. Many campuses also have connections and contracts with local businesses and agencies, giving those who seek employment through them an advantage. According to Simplicity Recruit, “Campus career centers are an extremely helpful resource for any organization hoping to develop or improve their campus recruiting strategy. Career centers are well-versed in understanding the needs of employers and how to help make the recruiting process as efficient and painless as possible. Traditional industry hiring is typically laborious for recruiters, as it involves a lot of legwork in identifying where to find the best candidates. The beauty of working with a campus career center for student recruiting is that career centers have the process streamlined from beginning to end and can aid employers with little to no cost.”

Networking Events

You've all heard the saying - "It's not what you know, but who you know." While what you know definitely matters, it helps that others know exactly how talented you are! Networking events are a great way to meet professionals. Networking events both meetings expressly for the purpose of sharing referrals, like BNI or LeTip, and professional events like seminars and conferences. If you are looking to get into a specific industry, find some events to attend. If you are looking to start a business or sell to businesses, a broad networking group is best. You may also luck out checking in with your local Chamber of Commerce. Having a job is great, and it's even better if you don't have to drive too far from home!

Looking for a job after graduation can be somewhat overwhelming, especially if you're ready to jump into the employment pool with both feet. Knowing where to look can take a bit of the pressure off your shoulders. Happy job hunting! For all your college application and career success choices, let Student Coaching Services help!

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