To the class of 2020: I know this isn't what you expected.
What started as a banner year, with unemployment at a historic 50-year low, has turned into one of the worst job markets in more than a decade. Despite a rebound of some jobs in May, the unemployment rate in the United States is hovering at about 13.3%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
As one of the nearly 4 million people with a newly minted degree, that may not bode well for you, but the news isn't all bad.
Sure, a deadly pandemic could impair your chances of revving up your career, but some companies are hiring, particularly those in e-commerce, digital payments, videoconferencing and other areas of technology. Positions are also open in the pharmaceuticals and medical device industries and on the front lines of the online retail and health care industries.
Contrary to popular belief, not all the positions require years of experience, either. While entry-level jobs may not be plentiful, they are out there for the candidates ready to find them.
That doesn't mean the search will be easy. On the contrary, the competition for jobs will be fierce. To stand out in a crowded field, you will need to work harder than ever to differentiate yourself and your skills from hundreds — perhaps thousands — vying for these positions.
If that sounds like a tall order, it is. Consider the findings from a report by iCIMS, a cloud platform for recruiting, which noted that new college grads sent resumes to an average of 10 companies by mid-March. By the end of the month, that number doubled.
So how can you land a job in this new environment? Here are six things you can do today.
1. Create a top-notch toolbox of materials.
Selling yourself and all you have to offer has never been more important. It may go without saying, but you need to write the perfect resume that showcases your talents through class projects, research papers, independent studies and internships.
Something else you'll need to do: Make your LinkedIn profile sing. I can't tell you how many candidates we source who haven't updated their profiles (ever), who lack a cogent and compelling purpose statement and whose profiles don't have a professional photo. First impressions matter, both in-person and online.
2. Expand your network.
Similarly, secure a cadre of strong references who can reinforce your capabilities, including teamwork, initiative and other soft skills that are just as important to employers as your grade point average.
Even with a solid list of people who can sing your praises, you will want to continue to build your network by participating in industry associations and reaching out to influencers for advice. Think about ways you can make connections while making a difference in the community.
3. Continue to acquire marketable skills.
Classes may be over, but the learning is just beginning. Stay current on trends and happenings in your industry by consuming as much information as possible in newsletters, online and in other channels. In addition, look for ways to fortify your leadership and other skills that are of importance to hiring companies.
4. Keep abreast of open positions.
Stay abreast of open positions by subscribing to job portals and keeping in touch with recruiters. Do your research to find companies whose mission, work and culture are a match with your skills and values. Importantly, brush up on your interviewing skills by taking part in virtual job fairs. (This will be advantageous, given the shift to virtual recruitment amid the pandemic.)
5. Consider your employment options.
In the age of a global pandemic, flexibility is the name of the game. If you haven't landed a job in your desired field of study, consider assuming a temporary role or a full-time position in another industry to gain valuable experience until the market improves. And never be afraid to take on even the smallest of tasks. Rise above other candidates with a willingness to master whatever job comes your way.
6. Keep a sense of optimism.
One last suggestion: Do all that you can to maintain a positive outlook. Remember that while these are uncertain times, they are sure to pass, and the job you are seeking will soon be within reach.