Play up your accomplishments at school
Do you have a high grade point average? Include it! Make sure to include any awards, competitions, publications and news clippings that are examples of your most impactful work and experience. You may also want to list additional coursework that is outside your major if you think it is relevant to the job you are seeking, particularly if it was an advanced course.
Your extracurricular activities may also be a great source of relevant, real-world experience. Clubs, internships, volunteer work and similar experiences may have helped you develop personal skills that are highly marketable. You may find that you have more relevant experience than you think!
Cover letters matter
A lot of candidates place emphasis on their resume, but don’t spend nearly the same amount of time thinking about their cover letter. This is where you can shine. Cover letters are your first personal introduction to an employer that gives a view of the person behind the resume. You can make a great impression by writing about your experiences and what you’ve learned from them.
Most companies want their employees to think for themselves, so your cover letter is a place where you can express your insights into your experience and the job you are applying for. Make sure to be courteous, and if you know the hiring manager’s name, you should address the letter specifically to her or him. Personalizing your cover letter in this manner shows your interest in this organization is genuine.
Landing your first job is both scary and exciting! Keep in mind that if you don’t get the first job you apply for, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Instead, think of this as a new class you are taking: “How to Get a Job.” Each part of the application and interview process is a learning experience. You may find that the more jobs you apply for, the more your job seeking, writing and interview skills will improve. So present yourself as the best fit for that dream position so you can land it!
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