7 Ways to Conquer Your First Job Hunt

The transition from school to workforce can be challenging at best and overwhelming at worst. Make yourself competitive with other recent graduates and more experienced job seekers with these seven job search tips.

1. Use Your Resources

You might feel like you’ve been thrown into the “real world” without a clue what to do next, but never fear: You have many supports available to help get your feet off the ground. Your high school or college career center, for example, is a great place to get a push in the right direction—even after you’ve graduated. iHire’s Resource Center has plenty of articles that offer job search tips, networking advice, common interview questions, and resume/cover letter writing guidance. You should also ask a family member or mentor who’s been through the process for some tricks of the trade.

While many new job seekers know one or two places to find entry-level job openings, they are rarely aware of all their options. In addition to scouring job boards, take a look at the websites of some top companies in your field. Most will have a “Careers” section of their site where you can learn more about job openings and their company culture.

2. Broaden Your Search…But Don’t Settle

Depending on your industry, profession, and location, it can be difficult to land the perfect entry-level position right out of school with limited experience. In fact, 38.6% of candidates surveyed for iHire’s 2024 Gen Z in the Workforce Report said they struggled to find jobs for which they possess the right experience.

If you, too, are having trouble finding a job you’re qualified for, look beyond full-time roles related to your degree. Consider part-time, contract, and temporary options for your first steps into the workforce, even if they aren’t strictly aligned with your long-term career goals.

However, don’t make a commitment somewhere you know you won’t be happy. In addition to experiencing a high measure of mental and emotional stress, you’re less likely to gain the achievements and levels of productivity that set you up for your dream job down the road.

3. Take Advantage of Social Media

Social media is one of several ways to learn about new opportunities, including entry-level roles, but did you know it’s also a great networking tool? From leveraging hashtags to LinkedIn connections, these sites offer innumerable ways to grow your personal brand and visibility. Before you start, though, make sure you spend some time combing through your previous posts and delete anything you wouldn’t want an employer to see.

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4. Focus Your Application

It can be tempting to create a general resume and cover letter to apply for hundreds of jobs, but that isn’t the way to get an interview in today’s market. Instead, customize your resume and cover letter for each job you apply to and include the right keywords to make it past applicant tracking systems (ATS). Be concise, avoiding long stories in your cover letter or overly elaborate sentences in your resume. And, if you lack direct professional experience, play up your transferable skills and related expertise gained from your coursework or volunteerism.

5. Be Professional

Even when searching for entry-level jobs, professionalism is key. Plan your interview attire well before the big day. Additionally, always use a formal tone when communicating with potential employers, whether writing emails or making telephone calls, and always thank whomever you’re speaking to for his/her time.

6. Research the Employer

Before applying, take the time to research the organization. This will give you a feel for how to structure your cover letter and what experiences to focus on in your interview. Consider the corporate culture, values, and/or mission, as well as the specific company demands this role supports. Some of what you need to know should be available on the business’s website, but a quick Google search might be necessary to get the whole picture.

7. Prepare for the Interview

Nearly 60.0% of employers believe Gen Z job seekers need to improve their interviewing skills to make themselves more marketable. Therefore, it is highly important that you get ready for your interview ahead of time. This will not only boost your confidence, but will also allow you to create stronger targeted answers before you step into the interviewer’s office.

Perform a guided investigation of your strengths and weakness, craft answers to common interview questions, and practice a mock interview with a friend or family member to support quick, easy recall of the skills and achievements that make you the best candidate for the role.

With these steps to success and a strong dose of focus and determination, you’re ready to make your first move into the working world. Go jumpstart your career!