How to begin your new career

Tips for Recent College Graduates Hoping to Enter the Workforce

There's nothing more daunting than the post-graduate veterinary career search. Fear not, new graduates, there are many ways to properly prepare yourself for life after college. If you are looking to get your career started right then you need to tap into all your available resources. These resources can come from school, family, friends, and other networking activities. In fact, the more you spend time networking the more likely you will end up in a great career perfectly suited to your wants and your skills.

Tap Into Your Available Resources

Many colleges offer both students and alumni access to special resources. Take time to hunt down your career office and get in touch with a career advisor if you were not already appointed one. This is a resource best used before graduation to help prepare you for the months that come after graduation. You don’t want student loan payments to hit before your first real paycheck does! Also, consider working with a recruiter, the best ones are independent and act as your advocate to find your perfect dream job.

Networking Never Hurt

Anyone can submit an online job application through indeed or some other job board website. If you pay close attention though, these job board sites are painfully oversaturated. The catch? Most jobs, 85% to be exact, are obtained through networking. That means it’s time to get to strengthen your LinkedIn page and work on your elevator speech. You never know who you may have the opportunity to impress.

Get Your Documents in Order

Set yourself up with a basic resume and cover letter to use as a reference point when submitting new job applications. This will make it easier to tailor each resume and cover letter you submit to the job you are applying for. If you are a writer or an artist, you may need a portfolio. Make sure you have one put together with a diverse display of your work ahead of time. Some people like to put their portfolios online to allow easy access to potential employers. If you have a professional online presence through a website or social media, use this to your advantage when networking.

The most intimidating aspect of finding a career after college is where to begin. Once you tap into the right resources and organize yourself properly, you’ll be career ready. It’s okay to seek help to ensure that your career search is as smooth as possible.