I've Graduated from College...Now What Do I Do?

Career Advice for College Graduates

Sharie C, Yahoo! Contributor Network
May 23, 2008 "Share your voice on Yahoo! websites. Start Here."

The journey of life is an unpredictable one. There are no guarantees. With the steady decline of the economy and increasing unemployment levels how can anyone truly be optimistic about leaving the comfort zone of college life and entering the real world?

Here are eight ways to stay ahead of the competition and succeed in a tough job market

1) Don't leave college...get a full-time job there
Most schools offer free tuition to full-time employees and their dependents. If a college or university has a graduate or certificate program you are interested in, you might want to find a job there. This will give you time to consider all of your options before taking a complete plunge into the real world. Going back to school can give you a chance to consider additional opportunities and gain more marketability in an unstable job market.

2) Take a non-traditional route
Maybe you were a Liberal Arts/Studies major and you're wondering what path to take. In this less than stellar economy, you might want to try taking an alternate career route for now. Try seeking a position as a retail manager trainee, customer service representative, an administrative assistant, personal assistant, or a hospitality/restaurant manager trainee. These positions can pay well and can give you an opportunity to try something different in industries that are doing moderately well in a sluggish economy.

3) Think entrepreneurial
Do you have a passion in life? Maybe you love to design jewelry or create websites. Why not start your own business? But don't give up that full-time job just yet, start out with small steps, on a small scale. Doing what you love even if it's on a part-time basis takes the drudgery out of everyday life.

4) Get Inspired...Read biographies of successful individuals & inspirational books
When you do this, you will see that you're not the only one who faced a struggle or an uphill battle in life. Seeing how someone else overcame hard times or challenges can give you the right mindset to stay the course when things get rough. Try reading books like the Greatness Guide by Robin Sharma, The Guide to Self-Coaching by Joseph J. Luciani, and anything written by Zig Ziglar.

5) Find a mentor
Most colleges have alumni resources and directories. Connect with someone in the field you want to be a part of. Send them a note or an email to get the ball rolling.

6) Network
Don't just depend on your school's career services department to find job opportunities.
Tell everyone you know you've just graduated and you're looking for a job, leave no stone unturned.

7) Work with a local staffing agency
Local staffing agencies have a cornucopia of jobs that are not listed on job posting websites or in the newspapers. Set up an appointment today.

8) Search the Internet
Here is a list of excellent internet sites that will help your career search:

www.careerbuilder.com

www.hotjobs.com

Published by Sharie C

I am an aspiring novelist and singer who has an insatiable appetite for learning. View profile