Beginning next month, the largest college graduating class in American history will enter the workforce. That comes out to approximately 1.5 million new people looking for work at a time when jobs are scarce. Companies will be hiring 22% fewer grads this year than last year.
What does this mean? Those of you who are looking for work are advised to take it up a notch. The last thing you need is another 200 or 300 people applying for the same position you are trying for. For the Class of ’09, the days of cramming aren’t over yet. In fact, they have just begun.
Here are some things you can do to give your search a jolt.
- Re-contact everyone you know and let them know you have broadened your search. Be prepared to site some specific examples of jobs you are willing to do.
- Look at options besides those that are available in the corporate world. The wealthy (and yes, there are still a lot of them out there) are still purchasing services. Do you have a skill you can offer up?
- Do some volunteer work. This will provide you with an opportunity to widen your network, while giving something back to society.
If you’ve tried it on your own and nothing seems to be clicking then consider getting some help. Most colleges offer free job searching services to their alumni. Or search Google for a job search group in your area. There are tons to choose from. But please…do something!
For those interested, we have a few slots available in our Job Search Mentor Program. Don’t delay. There are 1.5 million people who may be vying for those spots in the very near future.
