With the unemployment rate now approaching 9 percent, graduating seniors will not only be competing for jobs with other, equally-qualified graduates but with adults their parents’ age as well. These are uncertain times for everyone and in this job market, staying competitive means staying connected.
“Networking is the most important thing students can do,” said Ann Herrmann, a career counselor with CU’s Career Services. “Networking in this market is critical.”
Social networking Web sites can be very important tools to help the job search but they should not replace the more active, traditional forms of networking, Hermann said.
“Students need to take initiative and meet employers,” Hermann said. “With the Web, it’s easy to just send a million e-mails. Students should use their network and get connected to jobs through family and friends.”
Other students also realize that while the Web can be extremely helpful, it can be very limiting.
“People are using online tools like Monster.com to find jobs,” said Henry Huang, a senior communication majo. “I feel that’s not very effective.”
Being tech-savvy and comfortable using computers is an advantage this generation has over older generations who are also looking for jobs, but college students should not regard the Internet as a replacement for phone calls, informational interviews and face-to-face conversations, Herrmann said.
Even with effective networking and a great resume, students who are getting ready to graduate say they are still fearful of the uncertain job market and unstable economy.
“I am definitely kind of worried every time I look at the news,” Huang said.
For CU students not graduating in May, Hermann said now is a great time to develop a strategy for tackling a tough job market.
“It’s definitely a good time to be in school,” said freshman business major Andrew Kravet. “I’m trying to pick a major based on future job security.”
Kravet said he is currently trying to decide which emphasis to declare with his business degree.
Though it is a less-than desirable time to be gradating and looking for jobs, there are still opportunities available for students if they know where to look and who to use in their network to help them find it.
“This year is especially stressful, the market is really bad…but there are companies that are hiring,” Herrmann said.
Herrmann advises students to join and get involved with professional associations, acquire more technical skills and do as many internships as possible before graduation.
“Internships help students stand out and be more competitive,” Herrmann said.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Allison Doyle at Allison.doyle@colorado.edu.
