As you get closer to graduation applying for full time roles start to become a priority. Many students think that they just need to apply for the job then wait to hear back from the employer. As the job market continues to be more and more competitive just applying for the job is not enough. Many students think that in the hiring process the employer is in the drivers seat, but more recent research shows that the applicant needs to put themselves in the driver’s seat to get the job. Job postings can get thousands of applicants for one job. Looking over ever application and resume is just not a feasible task. You are probably thinking “ok so how do I get a job them?”. Great question! The answer is CONNECTIONS!!
Connections along with networking is the best way to increase your probability to getting a job. Now you’re probably thinking “how do I get connections and how will they help me get a job?”. Another great question! Starting out with gaining connections. It is not as hard as it sounds to gain connections, a great starting place is reaching out to people you already know. Whether it is a family friend or an old coworker, just asking them to have coffee can be a great way to learn about their job and the company they work for. Say you meet with John, and he tells you all about the company he works for. You walk away from that conversation thinking “wow, I really want to work for the same company as John they sound great!”. So, you apply for an open role in John’s company. After you apply you reach out to John to let him know that you applied and who the hiring manager is based on the application. He then goes to that hiring manager and tells them that you applied and that he thinks you would be a great fit for the position. Then the hiring manager will most likely take a closer look at your resume and is more likely to call you for an interview. Your chances of getting the job are significantly higher since John went and talked with the hiring manager vs just applying on your own. This is because John works there already and has built up some trust so when he makes a recommendation about you there is already some trust in you because John recommended you.
So, don’t be shy and reach out to your connections!! You never know where it could lead!
