2008 Woodie Awards
What Is The likelihood Of Getting A Job After Graduation? Good or Bad?
Marian Cacciatore
Issue date: 4/14/06 Section: Holt News
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I keep hearing that it is a "good" job market. As a graduating Senior, what can I expect from the current job market?
Anonymous '06
Dear Anonymous'06,
In general, the job market for the college Class of 2006 looks good.
"Employers are optimistic about their hiring plans, and they report that they're seeing more competition for the best new graduates," says Andrea Koncz, employment information manager for the National Association of Colleges and Employers, which tracks job market trends for new grads.
In spite of these positive words, however, I want to caution graduating seniors from sitting back and waiting for a job.
The job market still requires a great deal of effort and hard work.
One of the biggest mistakes that I see Holt students make is an "over reliance" of internet searches.
Since three out of four jobs are filled through networking, it is critical that individuals in a job search make sure their time is allocated appropriately.
Here are three actions you can take to increase your chances of getting a job offer:
Use the resources available to you through the Hamilton Holt office of Career Services.
Start your job search here. You will find a variety of career and job-search related resources already collected for you, and you will have access to ongoing guidance.
Among the services your career center provides are: assistance with resumes and cover letters, mock interviewing and job search strategies.
Did you know that you are able to register for Rollins College Monster Trak?
By registering, you will automatically receive notice of companies seeking Rollins alumni for their openings.
Research employers and their opportunities:
This may be the single biggest secret to job-search success!
Research can give you a direction for your job search; it will provide you with solid information you can use in crafting your resume and interviewing; it demonstrates to employers that you are interested in their opportunities and organizations; and it will help you figure out which organizations will be the best match for you.
Surprisingly, many job seekers skimp on research or skip this important step completely.
Employers say they can tell when a student hasn't bothered to investigate their organizations.
Given the many resources available to today's job seeker-including corporate web sites-employers think there is no excuse for failing to conduct research.
Network
You will gain an edge by building a network that can help you learn about organizations and their opportunities.
Your network contacts may help you get your resume into the right hands or your foot in the door.
In fact, many employers reward their current employees for referring candidates.
And, your network is something that can help you throughout your career.
Need to schedule an appointment? Simply call the Hamilton Holt office at 407.646.2232 or Marian Cacciatore at 407.646.2232.
Do you have a question for Marian? E-mail her at mcacciatore@rollins.edu. She guarantees that all questions will be responded to individually or in this column.