Lately I’ve been talking to several young college graduates that are having a hard time finding a job. It is hard for them to put all the effort into their education and when they come out “ready to go” there is no job for them waiting. How do we help the young generation get into the workforce? Furthermore, how do we help them when the supply of workers is much larger than the demand for jobs? What skills do they need besides their degree and beyond their education?
Small organizations need experience. They don’t have the time or resources to train recent graduates with no experience and that only have book knowledge. Large organizations are so large that in order for a resume to get to the top, there has to be embedded key words in the resumes and cover letters, G.P.A. must be at the highest levels (probably 3.5 and above), and sometimes it may be only luck that your resume got picked. Large organizations may have the resources to train new employees in entry level positions but they have so many applicants, it is easy to get lost in the thousands of resumes. So, are medium size companies the answer? Not necessarily.
I believe there are several elements that an employer looks for in a candidate and there are several things a candidate can do for their resume to go to the top of the list. Most employers, I believe, look for the total package—a person who has the credentials plus the soft skills. The question is, how do you incorporate the package when applying for a job? Let’s first talk about some ideas about improving your soft skills.
Sociability: This skill includes networking, friendliness, a genuine interest in getting to know other people, a good/clean sense of humor, and being a connector of people. Networking and knowing people are still essential for getting employed. Sometimes it may take up to the third of fourth circle of referrals or connections until something works out. Persevering is also key to success. The more connections you make the more opportunities will open up.
Presence: This is not a skill. It’s the representation of the package of the total person. It includes your appearance, which in turn includes grooming, stance, handshake, and your entire presence that creates that first impression. Exercising is crucial to staying in shape, which is part of your presence. Working out boosts your self-esteem and produces the hormones that lifts up your mood.
Presentation: Part of your presence is your presentation skills—whether that is in a one-on-one meeting, a small group, or a large group in a formal presentation. Being yourself is crucial for people to like you as a presenter. Practicing and preparing are foundational to help you feel self-confident and thus to deliver a strong, successful presentation.
Attitude: Once you get an interview, this is your chance to not only create an outstanding first impression but alto to convince the employer you are the correct candidate for the position you’re applying. Your attitude every day is a reflection of your heart. Your mood, how you feel about yourself and about life show up on your face, in your tone of voice, your behavior, and how you treat others. As part of your preparation before an interview, think of positive experiences, think of the people you love and that love you, think of places that relax you and give you peace. Remember, these are tips of things to do in addition to what’s expected, which is to research about the company you’re meeting with, bring questions ready regarding the position you’re applying for, dress appropriately for the interview, and show up on time or a little early. Part of keeping a positive attitude is to give compliments to people. You will feel good about yourself and you will immediately put others at ease and will make them feel good as well.
Enthusiasm: If you’re not the type of person that shows enthusiasm and excitement about anything because that’s your personality, that’s ok—most of the time. During an interview, you need to show some enthusiasm about the position you’re applying for and about the company. Share with the employer why you’re interested in working in their company. Tell them about any positive feedback you’ve heard or read about the company. That will definitely boost their ego and will make them feel proud of their organization. Get out of your comfort zone and get excited about all the things you can learn in the job and in the industry if you were to work there. And as part of your preparation, also go through the exercises discussed in the section above about Attitude.
Your spiritual being: Most importantly, I encourage you to pray the day of the interview and as you send each letter in the mail or apply to each job in the Internet. Ask God for the guidance and wisdom on how to apply to each individual company. Ask God for special connections and for mentors. People who will take an interest in helping a young worker as you enter the workforce. There are people like me out there who are passionate about helping the next generation be successful. It’s a calling, and God will put someone in your path to help you. Just remember that someday you will hopefully have the opportunity to help those that are coming up after you. Helping others is a way to thank God for everything He’s given you.
Once you practice doing these activities and putting these tips into action, you can easily summarize them into a cover letter that goes with your resume. The cover letter introduces the potential employer to you, as a person. The resume tells them about your credentials, experience, and accomplishments. So, does the size of organization matter when applying for a job? Yes, it matters. But there are ways to go around the various systems and ways in which your package is the one picked for the job. Searching for a job is your full-time job until you replace it with the job you want. Don’t give up in looking and trust God that He has the right job for you.
To my friends reading this blog today:
If you know a young adult that is looking for a job now, forward this blog to him or her today.