Graduation

A Note to New Graduates

A lot of the work we do at Career Contacts is centered around supporting candidates in their job search.

One of the most challenging groups to find rewarding and meaningful work are new (high school and University) grads. As if landing that first job isn’t hard enough, they are now having to deal with less roles available, remote onboarding and limited excitement over building new relationships!

What we find is that the core challenges are:

  1. Being able to demonstrate skills and experience since this may be your first work opportunity
  2. Assumptions made about maturity, reliability, and responsibility that are often perpetuated in the workforce
  3. The lack of confidence in hiring managers to onboard remotely
PRO TIP: Our HR Consultants at Career Contacts are equipped to support hiring managers to feel confident onboarding, managing, rewarding, and providing feedback – all remotely!

For new grads specifically, when taking on your job search, here are a few things to remember:

  • Take the time to write a proper resume and cover letter

First impressions matter and this will be your first introduction to the place you’re hoping to work for, so you want to make yours count! Take note of any applicable skills that you have and classes that you’ve taken that relate to the position you’re applying to.

  • Create a LinkedIn profile

LinkedIn is a great resource for connecting with people in the workplace and for showcasing your best, most professional self.

  • Prepare for interviews and be on time

While interviews can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to them, being prepared and on time (even a bit early) can ease a lot of the anxiety you may be feeling and make you look great as a candidate. Make sure to do your research on the company you’re applying to and the job description they’ve posted so that you feel equipped for any questions they may ask, and then try rehearsing those questions with a friend.

  • Be confident in negotiating salaries

Confidence is one of the keys to success and although it can seem daunting to discuss salary, candidates who are self-assured in their abilities and what they can contribute to a workplace will make a good impression on a hiring manager or recruiter.

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The bigger challenge is, even with all of the above, you still need to get in front of hiring managers and recruiters. Here are a few ways to do that:

  • Reach out to your network of family and friends and let them know you’re looking for work

Getting the word out about your search can increase your chances of finding roles to apply to, and personal referrals can go a long way in the job industry!

  • Keep an open mind

Your dream job may not look exactly the way you’re envisioning on paper. Keeping an open mind about the type of positions you’re looking for can open up a lot more doors that may end up being a great fit.

  • Apply, apply, apply!

Often times in a saturated job market, playing the numbers game is a good way to get yourself into that interview chair! The more you can put yourself out there, the more chances you have of landing an interview.

Entering the job space as a new grad can be overwhelming, but it’s also full of opportunity! Use these tips as a starting place to go into your search with confidence, and if you would like any support in your job hunt, Career Contacts is always ready to help!

Want to check out our current open roles? Head over to our job board!