The job market may be tough, but there are a few things that keep you ahead of the competition. Check out this article to find out what these things are.

A degree doesn’t necessarily qualify you for a job. In today’s competitive job market, you need additional skills and experience to catch a potential employer’s eye. Young Americans are unemployed at about twice the rate of older workers and millions of twenty-somethings are currently out of work or settle for jobs that don’t highlight their skills. However, these statistics shouldn’t scare off future college graduates — if you know how to successfully showcase your abilities, the chances of landing a job are higher.

College is the ideal time to start paying attention to your strengths and to what makes you competitive. If you focus on developing certain skills potential employers are looking for and gain valuable and relevant work experience, you increase your chances of finding a good job. Here are five things recruiters are looking for in candidates, below.

A strong education

Graduating from a top university can sometimes be enough to score a good job. For example, 61 percent of Harvard alumni will be employed a year after graduation, according to a recent survey. Stanford, Pomona College, Princeton, Yale and Columbia are also among America’s top colleges, according to Forbes. However, if you don’t graduate from one of these prestigious schools, don’t panic — some companies often favor big state schools when recruiting new hires.

Experience outside of the classroom

Nowadays, it’s not enough to have a strong academic background. Potential employers are also looking for relevant experience gained outside the classroom. That’s exactly why it’s so important to find a part-time job or an internship during your college years. Make sure it’s a job that will allow you to develop skills useful in your future career.

A good reputation

Having a good reputation is important when applying for a job. Get recommendations from professors early on and ask for references from employers you have during college. Develop your LinkedIn profile while you are still in school — update your portfolio, if this is the case, and ask colleagues and employers to write you recommendations. Also, keep your profiles on other social networks as professional as possible — employers research candidates online before asking them to come in for an interview. It’s a good opportunity to check over your privacy settings.

Ability to work in a team

In order to prove to potential employers that you can successfully be part of a team, consider joining a student organization or volunteering during your college years. Teamwork is one of the most important skills recruiters are looking for, so showing them you can thrive in team environment is mandatory.

Passion

This one should go without saying — showing that you are passionate about a job is crucial if you want the employer’s attention. Always research the company before applying for a position. Customize your resume and cover letter so that you show why you are the perfect candidate for the job.

Finding a job can be a difficult process. Keep a positive attitude and start cultivating your skills as early as possible. Showing that you are prepared and motivated will definitely keep you ahead of your competition.