It’s an exciting time when you graduate college and enter the “real world.” However, it can also be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to finding your first job. There are a lot of things to think about – what type of job do you want, where do you want to live, how will you pay off your student loans? It can be overwhelming. To help you navigate your post-college life, here are some job search tips for recent graduates who are looking for their first job.

Attend Networking Events

Networking is key, especially when you are first starting out in your career. Attend events that are relevant to your industry and make sure to exchange business cards with people you meet. You never know when one of those connections will come in handy.

If you’re looking for networking events in St. Louis, check our Eventbrite and Meetup for upcoming networking events.

Do Your Research

When you’re applying for jobs, it’s important to do your research on the company and the position you’re interested in. Make sure you know what the company does, their mission and values, and what the day-to-day responsibilities of the job are. This will not only help you decide if it’s a good fit for you, but it will also give you something to talk about in your interview. It will also show the interviewer that you’re interested in the position and aren’t just looking for any job.

Take an Internship

If you’re not sure what type of career you want to pursue, an internship can be a great way to try out different options. Internships will give you the opportunity to gain experience in your desired field and see if it’s the right fit for you. Plus, many internships lead to full-time job offers, so it’s a great way to get your foot in the door.

Clean Up Social Media Profiles

Nowadays, employers will oftentimes look up potential candidates on social media before offering them a job. So it’s important to make sure that your social media profiles are presentable and professional. This doesn’t mean you have to delete all your photos or posts, just be mindful of what you’re sharing online.

Create a Strong Resume

Your resume is often the first thing employers will see, so it’s important to make a good impression. Highlight your relevant experience and skills, and be sure to proofread for any typos or errors. If you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of resources and templates available online.

Tailor Your Resume for Each Application

When you’re applying for jobs, it’s important to tailor your resume to each position. This means specifying why you are a good fit for that particular job, and highlighting the relevant skills and experience you have. Don’t just send out the same generic resume to every employer, take the time to customize it for each application

Customize Your Cover Letters

When applying for jobs, your cover letter is your opportunity to showcase why you are the best candidate for the position. So make sure to customize each cover letter to the specific job you’re applying for. Mentioning specific skills and experience that are relevant to the job will show that you’re a good fit and increase your chances of getting an interview.

Work With a Staffing Agency

If you’re having trouble finding a job on your own, working with a staffing agency can be a great option. Staffing agencies such as Burchard & Associates will help match you with positions that are a good fit for your skills and experience. They can also provide guidance and support throughout the job search process.

If you’re looking for an accounting or finance position in the St. Louis area, check out our available positions or contact us today.