Careers don’t grow on trees
The only way for you to land your dream job is to create it.
If you’re one of the lucky few, you already know what you want to be when you grow up. You have the drive, a shiny new degree, and the pay will be decent.
The problem is you’re not the only one.
There are over half a million other graduates, and many are in your field. A high GPA and some extracurricular activities don’t guarantee job offers anymore, especially when you’re up against someone with actual work experience.
So stop sending generic resumes that go unread, and tap into your connections for an intro to a hiring manager. It might not be the position you were hoping for, it might even be an internship, but that’s okay. It’s a start. The money you’ll make will help pay off student loans, not to mention finally enable you to move out of your parents’ house.
If you’ve asked everybody and still no dice, don’t give up. Apply for a retail or fast food job, sign up to Elance, sell something on Etsy, and give Fiverr a shot. In the mean time, grow your network by going to industry events and keep in touch with people by connecting with them on LinkedIn. While you’re listening and helping new contacts, keep your eyes open for interesting opportunities in your field. Once you’ve built stronger bonds, people will be happy to refer you to your dream job.
The reference will get you the first interview, your experience and education might result in a second interview, but there’s always going to be a better candidate. You’ve been getting comfortable in your minimum wage job, but now it’s time to step it up and prove yourself.
What better way to stand out, than to demonstrate your skills through a side project. You don’t need a fancy title to get things done, just figure out what the role entails and do it. Applying for to be a teacher? Start offering after-school lessons. Chef? Start a food blog. Marketing Manager? Ask a friend if you can promote their business in exchange for a reference. They won’t turn down the free help. Trust me.
Now that you have the education, work experience, and expertise you’re ready to go get ‘em. Just one thing… are still interested in working for someone else?
While you were trying to figure out how to impress a company that may or not hire you, you’ve created your own career. And I bet it’s pretty awesome.
