Job Tips for College Grads- Part Two

June 23rd, 2008 at 08:27am Brent Swanson

3) Leave your Ego at the Door:  Every college kid has big expectations with their first job.  You’ve probably been on the Internet and determined what you are worth, given your degree and the position that you are applying for.  Hope you had fun- now it’s time to enter reality. 

The reality is that yes, you will want to find a position that pays competitively. That being said, salary is only a part of the compensation package.  You need to look at a company’s benefit program, health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunity for growth.  Don’t get so focused on demanding a high salary that you forget to look at the big picture on what the company offers.  Remember, you still need to prove yourself.  At this point, you’re just a kid with a degree.  With hard work, loyalty, and experience gained, the money will work itself out.   

4) Professionalism:  Now is the time to begin showing companies that you are a professional.  Following an interview, always send out a thank you card.  This serves multiple purposes.  If the company is having a hard time selecting between candidates, it could be the one thing that helps put you over the top.  If they go another direction, it can help keep you in good standing with the company for future opportunities. 

If you receive a job offer that you are not interested in accepting, the worst thing you can do is ignore the company.  They took the time to review your resume, interview you, and put together an offer for you to join their company.  You owe them the courtesy of a phone call thanking them for their interest, but politely decline.  While they may be disappointed, they will respect you.  It is never good to burn any bridges.   

5) Have fun!:  This is your chance to jump into the real world.  Do your homework, identify jobs or companies that interest you, and tailor your search accordingly.  If a job isn’t for you, politely decline it.  If you start a job and it is not a good long-term fit for you, position yourself to make a move.  Sometimes you don’t know until you start working.  You are young enough, and early enough into your work experience where you can still find your way. 

But, be careful of becoming a job hopper, as that will not do you any favors in the long run.  And, lastly, if you are in a position to do this, take some time off.  Enjoy a couple weeks in the summer for yourself.  You’ve earned it!  

Good Luck!

Entry Filed under: Marketing Yourself