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It was a long and challenging road, but you’ve finally graduated. Now what happens? You’re going to be in the market for a new job, and that means building your resume and applying for positions that are a match for your skills, experience, and education. But how do you get started if you’ve never done it before?

Here are a few tips that can help you land an exciting job after graduation and get you well on your career path toward the future.

Internships and Volunteering

Don’t forget the value of internships or volunteer programs while you’re in school. While you may not have a lot of professional experience in your chosen field, these summer jobs or projects can be strong resume builders to communicate your interest, dedication, and skills to a potential employer once you’ve graduated.

Network in Your Community

They say it’s not what you know but who you know. What you know is certainly important, but never underestimate the relationships you build within your professional sector. Take time to develop your networking skills and be willing to get out of your own comfort zone to meet people who may be able to make decisions.

Work on Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume should be a living document, but so many people only work on when they have a need. Instead, start out with good habits. Review options for creating your resume to showcase your skills. The most popular format for this type of document is called a functional resume. And don’t forget your cover letter. Each cover letter should reflect what it is you bring to the table and why you’re interested in the specific job.

Don’t Be Afraid to Be Bold

It’s okay to be bold right after college. The truth is, it’s okay to be bold throughout your career. Don’t just follow the lead. Put yourself out there and show employers what it’s like to hire someone like you. Be willing to put your experience and skills on the line and take risks, especially as you’re just starting out.

Are you looking for your first job after graduation?

Contact the team at Harvard Resource Solutions, now hiring for jobs in Southeast MI. We can help you find jobs after graduation or during any phase of your job search.