12 answers
Macie
Student
Charleston, South Carolina
2
Questions
Asked
1242 views
What strategies helped you land your first job after graduation?
Senior at the College of Charleston majoring in Communication. Interested in HR, sales, and event planning, but unsure of what steps to take post-grad to land a job since the job market is so competitive.
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11 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I would look at finding potential employment at a local county or state career center.
These centers offer resources like job listings, workshops on resume writing and interviewing, access to computers, and career counselors who can assess your skills and refer you to suitable positions.
You can also use statewide online job boards and resources like the federal CareerOneStop website to find local American Job Centers and opportunities.
Colleges and universities normally also have job centers, where students can browse opportunities, internships and volunteer employment options, to help them gain more experience
So, these might be options to consider.
These centers offer resources like job listings, workshops on resume writing and interviewing, access to computers, and career counselors who can assess your skills and refer you to suitable positions.
You can also use statewide online job boards and resources like the federal CareerOneStop website to find local American Job Centers and opportunities.
Colleges and universities normally also have job centers, where students can browse opportunities, internships and volunteer employment options, to help them gain more experience
So, these might be options to consider.
When I completed my early studies, I attended social functions. I promoted myself, at social gathering halls ; there you would, have the opportunity to apply to positions. I also, went on dinner dates and home gathering of newly educated and experienced professionals.
Carolyn
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Macie. When I graduated, I also felt unsure about where to start. What helped me most was taking small, intentional steps that built my confidence. The first strategy I used was networking. I reached out to professionals who worked in fields I was interested in, such as HR and Accounting. I asked them for advice about their careers and how they got started. These conversations not only gave me helpful insight but also opened doors to opportunities I wouldn't have found on job boards.
Another key strategy was gaining experience, even before graduation. I looked for volunteer positions related to communication. These experiences helped me build a portfolio of real-world skills that made my resume stand out. If you haven't already, try joining student organizations or planning campus events. These are great ways to show employers you have leadership, teamwork, and organizational abilities, all valuable in HR, sales, and event planning roles.
I also made sure to tailor my resume and cover letter for each job application. Instead of sending the same document everywhere, I highlighted skills that matched the specific role, such as communication, problem-solving, and customer service. Employers appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their experiences to the company's needs. All the best!
Another key strategy was gaining experience, even before graduation. I looked for volunteer positions related to communication. These experiences helped me build a portfolio of real-world skills that made my resume stand out. If you haven't already, try joining student organizations or planning campus events. These are great ways to show employers you have leadership, teamwork, and organizational abilities, all valuable in HR, sales, and event planning roles.
I also made sure to tailor my resume and cover letter for each job application. Instead of sending the same document everywhere, I highlighted skills that matched the specific role, such as communication, problem-solving, and customer service. Employers appreciate when applicants take the time to connect their experiences to the company's needs. All the best!
I also have reinvent myself, by returning to school, changing hair and style of dress , meeting individuals without college level education, but a strong work experience. The sabotaging system is still working, I had to readjust my life to work and to keep friendships. This system of sabotaging and low corporate takeover, is the worst, having education were a blessing, it can be mentally frustrating, with individuals trying to use and destroy your educational foundation.
Carolyn
Sena Agawu
Senior Communications Lead
4
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Sena’s Answer
When starting your first job, focus on gaining experience. Even if the job doesn't perfectly match your goals, it will still help you build useful skills for the future.
In a competitive job market, think about ways to strengthen your resume, like volunteering or taking a part-time job.
Stay in touch with your internship supervisor, career advisors, or former professors. They can help you find new opportunities if you maintain good communication with them.
Talk to professionals in jobs you like to learn how they got there, what jobs they had before, and what skills they gained.
Use LinkedIn to find roles or companies you're interested in and ask for short meetings or calls. This can lead to referrals.
In a competitive job market, think about ways to strengthen your resume, like volunteering or taking a part-time job.
Stay in touch with your internship supervisor, career advisors, or former professors. They can help you find new opportunities if you maintain good communication with them.
Talk to professionals in jobs you like to learn how they got there, what jobs they had before, and what skills they gained.
Use LinkedIn to find roles or companies you're interested in and ask for short meetings or calls. This can lead to referrals.
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Macie !
After graduation, I really didn't have any strategy, to be honest with you. My particular field of work had two cities that I needed to live in, either New York City or Los Angeles. I chose Los Angeles after college as it was my life-long dream. More than describing it as "strategy", it was the individual plans I made that expedited and enabled me to get my first career job after graduation.
I learned how to start my career from being a Theatre Major, my professors, classmates, peers in the community and a Mentor who was a seasoned actress and director. By my junior year, it was more than clear as to what steps I had to take. I arranged housing a year prior to my move. And I'll tell you that this is how I paid for the move: my student loans.
I was a student many decades ago when student loans were not part of the Federal Student Financial Aid package. Suddenly, in my senior year, my financial aid offer came to me but had two student loans as an offer. I didn't know any different, so accepted them. That was the very first time student loans were part of the financial aid package. They were miniscule amounts compared to the amounts of today's student loans. I decided that would be my funds to move 400 miles away to Los Angeles. I had only been to L.A. 3 times before moving there, but felt a real passion for continuing my acting in L.A., not New York City . . . yet.
More than a conscious "strategy", what worked for me was making plans during college and accepting opportunities that would help me as I went along. Sort of letting things happen. The relocation experience turned out to be fun and successful. Speaking of "competitive" there is a very high competitive factor for my career, but if I worried about it, I'd have never started it, so forget about competition and see yourself as someone who can bring something special and unique to your work.
Also, I advise not trying to see in your mind the job you will get after college. If you network a lot, attend events in your field of work, do projects and activity connected to your field of work, that will be a boost for opportunities. Try not to pre-determine what these opportunities would be - we get pleasantly surprised at times. But you really need to keep active, expand your social circle and be around people in the industry that you wish to pursue.
I advise joining Charleston Business Group, Great Business Networking, B2B Connect, North Charleston Chamber of Commerce, Daniel Island Business Association, Lowcountry Local First, 1 Million Cups- a weekly event at the Harbor Entrepreneur Center, Creative Mornings, and Rockstar Connect which is in Downtown Charleston. Circulate, mingle, have fun and increase your possibilities !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
After graduation, I really didn't have any strategy, to be honest with you. My particular field of work had two cities that I needed to live in, either New York City or Los Angeles. I chose Los Angeles after college as it was my life-long dream. More than describing it as "strategy", it was the individual plans I made that expedited and enabled me to get my first career job after graduation.
I learned how to start my career from being a Theatre Major, my professors, classmates, peers in the community and a Mentor who was a seasoned actress and director. By my junior year, it was more than clear as to what steps I had to take. I arranged housing a year prior to my move. And I'll tell you that this is how I paid for the move: my student loans.
I was a student many decades ago when student loans were not part of the Federal Student Financial Aid package. Suddenly, in my senior year, my financial aid offer came to me but had two student loans as an offer. I didn't know any different, so accepted them. That was the very first time student loans were part of the financial aid package. They were miniscule amounts compared to the amounts of today's student loans. I decided that would be my funds to move 400 miles away to Los Angeles. I had only been to L.A. 3 times before moving there, but felt a real passion for continuing my acting in L.A., not New York City . . . yet.
More than a conscious "strategy", what worked for me was making plans during college and accepting opportunities that would help me as I went along. Sort of letting things happen. The relocation experience turned out to be fun and successful. Speaking of "competitive" there is a very high competitive factor for my career, but if I worried about it, I'd have never started it, so forget about competition and see yourself as someone who can bring something special and unique to your work.
Also, I advise not trying to see in your mind the job you will get after college. If you network a lot, attend events in your field of work, do projects and activity connected to your field of work, that will be a boost for opportunities. Try not to pre-determine what these opportunities would be - we get pleasantly surprised at times. But you really need to keep active, expand your social circle and be around people in the industry that you wish to pursue.
I advise joining Charleston Business Group, Great Business Networking, B2B Connect, North Charleston Chamber of Commerce, Daniel Island Business Association, Lowcountry Local First, 1 Million Cups- a weekly event at the Harbor Entrepreneur Center, Creative Mornings, and Rockstar Connect which is in Downtown Charleston. Circulate, mingle, have fun and increase your possibilities !
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Matt M
Auditor
9
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hi Macie,
I remember feeling the same way when I was in college. What helped me most was combining intentional networking with hands-on experience. Here is what made a difference for me:
Start with informational interviews:
I reached out to alumni and professionals in industries I was curious about (accounting, finance, etc.). I’d ask how they got started and what skills mattered most. These conversations gave me insight into how others successfully started their careers.
Get experience — even if it’s unpaid or part-time:
Internships, campus event roles, or part-time jobs in related fields will help build tangible examples for your resume. For example, helping plan a university event can show organizational and communication skills that appealed to employers in both HR and sales.
Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile:
Learn to use keywords from job postings and highlight outcomes (e.g., “Coordinated a campus event for 300 attendees” instead of “Helped plan events”). Recruiters often search by these terms.
Network through your college and community:
Your school’s career center, professors, and alumni network are powerful. Attend events, career fairs, and panels; they’re less about finding a job on the spot and more about planting seeds.
I remember feeling the same way when I was in college. What helped me most was combining intentional networking with hands-on experience. Here is what made a difference for me:
Start with informational interviews:
I reached out to alumni and professionals in industries I was curious about (accounting, finance, etc.). I’d ask how they got started and what skills mattered most. These conversations gave me insight into how others successfully started their careers.
Get experience — even if it’s unpaid or part-time:
Internships, campus event roles, or part-time jobs in related fields will help build tangible examples for your resume. For example, helping plan a university event can show organizational and communication skills that appealed to employers in both HR and sales.
Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile:
Learn to use keywords from job postings and highlight outcomes (e.g., “Coordinated a campus event for 300 attendees” instead of “Helped plan events”). Recruiters often search by these terms.
Network through your college and community:
Your school’s career center, professors, and alumni network are powerful. Attend events, career fairs, and panels; they’re less about finding a job on the spot and more about planting seeds.
Marisa Cinelli
HR Manager
8
Answers
Oldsmar, Florida
Updated
Marisa’s Answer
Getting my first job after graduation was an exciting journey filled with proactive steps. I crafted a strong resume that showcased my skills and experiences, including internships and volunteer work. Networking was essential—I connected with professors, alumni, and industry professionals to get advice and learn about job openings. I made sure each application and cover letter was customized for the specific role and company, helping me stand out. I also prepared well for interviews by practicing questions and researching the companies. Staying determined and optimistic was important, as finding the right job sometimes took a little time.
Stephen Henry Thomas
Software Engineer
2
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Stephen Henry’s Answer
Think about what sets you apart from the competition. In particular what work/activities you have done outside of regular class work.
Talk about events you have helped plan, and thing that demonstrates your sales skills (ex: building relationships),
Create a set of stories for each of your strengths, so that when you are asked questions you can use the stories you have and have practiced.
Also get used to rejection. It's not about you, you'll get a 100 NOs for 1YES. Be persistant
Use your networks, family, friends, classmates, Alumni ... Do you know anybody In HR/EventPlannig/FillInTheBlank if they know anyone you can talk to for advice. Reach out to them on LinkedIn etc. Be a pleasant persistent pest
Get comfortable being unconfortable,
Talk about events you have helped plan, and thing that demonstrates your sales skills (ex: building relationships),
Create a set of stories for each of your strengths, so that when you are asked questions you can use the stories you have and have practiced.
Also get used to rejection. It's not about you, you'll get a 100 NOs for 1YES. Be persistant
Use your networks, family, friends, classmates, Alumni ... Do you know anybody In HR/EventPlannig/FillInTheBlank if they know anyone you can talk to for advice. Reach out to them on LinkedIn etc. Be a pleasant persistent pest
Get comfortable being unconfortable,
Jen Harewood
2
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Jen’s Answer
Hi there, totally know what you've been through as I graduated in the market of 2011 right after the financial crisis of '08.
I would say, stay hopeful. Nothing lasts forever.
1. Stay connected to your school's career services and alumni services - alumni can be a really great resource to find new opportunities or even bounce ideas off of.
2. Don't be afraid to take jobs that may not be your dream job at this moment - always see them as a stepping stone to the next level you want to go to. There's always a learning and that can be valuable.
3. Stay abreast of the hiring and challenges in the industry you're going into. It will help you know what skills you need to brush up on to stay competitive and how to set yourself apart.
It will take a while but you will land. Best of luck!
I would say, stay hopeful. Nothing lasts forever.
1. Stay connected to your school's career services and alumni services - alumni can be a really great resource to find new opportunities or even bounce ideas off of.
2. Don't be afraid to take jobs that may not be your dream job at this moment - always see them as a stepping stone to the next level you want to go to. There's always a learning and that can be valuable.
3. Stay abreast of the hiring and challenges in the industry you're going into. It will help you know what skills you need to brush up on to stay competitive and how to set yourself apart.
It will take a while but you will land. Best of luck!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2398
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar questions.
Below are some suggestions :
1. Keep an eye in careers office of colleges any intern or graduate program is available. Many corporate may post their openings in colleges career office. For internship, many corporate may offer permanent opportunities if the performance of the intern is good.
2. Explore the corporate portal website to explore any opportunities suitable for fresh graduates
3. Check the job boards on the opening that might be suitable to you, e.g. LinkedIn
4. Contact Job Agencies on the opportunities
5. If there is any corporate you have particular interest, you can send your cv to their HR department with a cover email
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are some suggestions :
1. Keep an eye in careers office of colleges any intern or graduate program is available. Many corporate may post their openings in colleges career office. For internship, many corporate may offer permanent opportunities if the performance of the intern is good.
2. Explore the corporate portal website to explore any opportunities suitable for fresh graduates
3. Check the job boards on the opening that might be suitable to you, e.g. LinkedIn
4. Contact Job Agencies on the opportunities
5. If there is any corporate you have particular interest, you can send your cv to their HR department with a cover email
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
semi hayat
Professional Resume Writer
18
Answers
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
semi’s Answer
Start by narrowing down your interests HR, sales, and event planning all value communication skills, so focus on one area first. Build experience through internships, volunteer work, or campus events to strengthen your resume. Network with alumni, attend career fairs, and reach out on LinkedIn for informational chats. Tailor each application to the company, and highlight both your people and organizational skills that combination will stand out in any field.
semi hayat
Professional Resume Writer
18
Answers
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Updated
semi’s Answer
Start by narrowing down your interests HR, sales, and event planning all value communication skills, so focus on one area first. Build experience through internships, volunteer work, or campus events to strengthen your resume. Network with alumni, attend career fairs, and reach out on LinkedIn for informational chats. Tailor each application to the company, and highlight both your people and organizational skills that combination will stand out in any field.