You've spent four years of your life hitting the books, getting good grades, participating in relevant extracurricular activities, and maybe even juggling a part-time job in between. You've worked really hard for your degree, and you've been told time and time again that a degree is essential to finding employment in today's competitive job market.
So, why are you not getting hired?
First of all, you're not alone. Though the unemployment rate has slowly declined for bachelor's degree holders, it's still lagging. For that reason, the competition is fiercer than ever. This means you really have to re-evaluate your job search strategy.
The job market for new grads is constantly shifting, and what worked even a few years ago might not cut it today. Employers are looking for more than just a diploma; they want real-world experience, problem-solving skills, and a personal brand that stands out. If you're sending out dozens of resumes and hearing crickets, it's time to dig deeper and identify what might be holding you back.
Here are some reasons why you might not be getting hired as a recent college graduate.
Your Resume Isn't Job-Specific
While it's good to have a strong resume with all of your professional skill sets, your resume can become generic when all you do is send the same resume to every open position you find.
Take the time to rewrite your resume on multiple occasions and use specific keywords that are in the job description.
According to an article on the Job Center of Wisconsin website, gathering information specific to the job you are applying for and matching it with your experience on your resume is what makes a good resume. You have to "think like an employer," the article states, and "do not give unrelated or negative information."
Tailoring your resume shows hiring managers that you're serious about the role and have taken the time to align your qualifications with their needs. This not only helps you pass applicant tracking systems (ATS), which filter resumes based on keyword matches, but also increases your chances of standing out in a competitive job market. If you're young and unemployed, this extra effort could be the difference between getting overlooked and getting called in for an interview.
You're Not Applying For Jobs That Are Specific To Your Skills
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You have every reason to apply for every job in sight. However, it doesn't do you any favors when you apply for every single job you see and send the same resume to each one.
Apply for the jobs you want and are qualified for. After all, it's what you studied for.
Focus on quality over quantity when it comes to your job search. Hiring managers can tell when a resume has been recycled, and that lack of personalization can cost you an interview. Again, you need to tailor your resume for each position by highlighting the skills and experience that match the job description. Employers are looking for candidates who show genuine interest and a clear understanding of the role, not someone who's just mass applying.
Try to make a list of potential places you'd like to work for (your interview bucket list) and target those companies in any way you can. Use social media sites like LinkedIn to find people you can network with (backchanneling is so important in this competitive job market), and keep an eye out for any open positions. You have a better chance of getting hired at a job where your skills are relevant than at a job you're 100% unqualified for.
You Don't Take Your Social Media Profiles Seriously
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According to an article on the Undercover Recruiter, a survey of 300 professionals by Reppler found that "hirers are using social networks to screen job applicants." This means you should clean up your Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok profiles to present a more positive and, more importantly, professional image of yourself.
It might be in your best interest not to post that picture of you doing a keg stand, or post about how you hate looking for jobs. Hiring managers are paying close attention to your digital footprint, and even one inappropriate photo or negative comment can raise red flags. Think of your social media as an extension of your resume, a reflection of your personal brand. It should highlight your interests, communication skills, and overall professionalism.
If you’re young and unemployed, curating a clean, job-seeker-friendly online presence could be the difference between getting ghosted and getting a callback.
We understand how difficult it is for recent college grads and young professionals to find a job right now. By following these tips, you'll shorten your job search and get hired quicker than your peers.
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