May 19, 2020

What should new graduates be doing to ensure success post-pandemic?

Colton Basks – Account Coordinator

It's no secret that the workforce that 2020 college graduates are entering is starkly different than it was a year ago. Due to the unforeseen consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, businesses have been forced to scale back their employee numbers and, in some cases, lay off a majority of their team. However, in time, things will go back to normal and businesses will once again be looking for the next generation of brilliant minds.

In the meantime, there are things that new graduates can be doing to beef up their resume and help themselves out when companies start rehiring.

Use this time to make sure your resume is personalized and shows some individuality. All too often, hiring managers read/receive the same boring resume format that is full of exceptional qualifications and achievements, but still gets overlooked. A resume is an employer's first chance to get to know you and first impressions are always important. Make sure your first impression is a good one and put your best foot forward. This article is full of great advice on personalizing your resume to help you land the job.

While nobody loves being stuck inside doing nothing all day, this is a great time to pick up on some new skills or learn something that can enhance your resume. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been a plethora of webinars and online learning opportunities released. Use this time to master a new skill such as Canva, InDesign or brush up on your social media skills.

Lastly, don't forget about networking during this time. Networking is one of the most important aspects of the job-hunting process and, pandemic or no pandemic, this is something that we can always be doing. With tools like LinkedIn, Facebook and other social media platforms, graduates should be doing their best to connect with other professionals in their prospective industry. One great way to do this is to connect with people at companies you're interested in working for and asking for advice, tips or any other information regarding job openings.

While times are certainly not normal, they will be eventually. When they are, make sure you're putting your best foot forward and have taken the necessary steps to ensure your chances of success are the highest they can be.

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