Finding a Job With a New Degree: Where to Start

Congratulations on your new degree, this is an exciting part of your life. You worked hard and now it is time to find a job that works best with your degree. With the economy being what it is these days, there is so much competition for every job out there. You have to go that extra mile in trying to find a job in your new area of study. There are many students that graduate from their program of choice and they do not find a job right away.

Part of that reason is that they don't put too much effort in find a job. They think by looking in the local newspaper or online they are going to find a job, they may find a job but a job with their degree skills. The first thing that you need to do is construct a professional resume, even if it doesn't look like much since you just completed your degree but it should have education, basic information such as name, address and a good working phone number.

You should have some type of work experience and if you are an adult with a new degree you will definitely have work experience, even if it doesn't mesh with your new degree it is important that an employer knows what kind of skills that you do have. Here are some great ways to search for a new job with your new degree.

Blind Resume: Do some research and see which companies out there have something to you with your degree. You can search through the Business White Pages and then look online and see if these companies are in the same realm of your degree. Then mail out a resume and a cover letter explaining why you would make a great addition to their company, even if they aren't hiring. This may be a good way to get your foot in the door.

Job Fair: Keep your eyes out for local Job Fairs, these are held in local Colleges or in local Arenas. A job fair is a great way to meet potential employers in an informal setting. People tend to more relaxed and show more of who they are at the job fairs. Make copies of your resume and a cover letter and make the rounds. You may also be able to see which companies will be at the job fair on the arena websites. You can customize your cover letter to the companies that you know will be there.

Volunteer and Intern: When you are going to school, there are some programs that offer an internship. This is where you can get hands on experience at a small wage. With some internships, they the employer likes your work, you may be able to stay on a full time capacity. This is a really good way to get your feet wet with a new degree. Talk to an academic advisor at your school and see if you can get into an internship or voluntary program.