Tips for a good job after college

The economic decline fueled by the tragic events of Sept. 11 and a decline in consumer spending and travel has affected the current job market. Companies are hiring 20 percent fewer workers. This year at IU, there were 30 fewer companies that came to interview students as potential employees, and companies at the internship fairs seem sparse. \nIn 1998, companies were knocking down student doors with job offers, and graduates were receiving salary offers in the middle-to-high $40,000 range. Companies were even offering signing bonuses. The economy was good.\nRight now that's not quite the case. For students who are not graduating this year, there is hope that by 2003 the economy will be back on the upswing.\nIn general, there are some important things to know when preparing to get a job after you graduate. Companies are interested in hiring employees based on skills and experience. Many people are under the impression that college revolves around your major and GPA. While this may be true in some cases -- if you are planning to go into a technical field, apply to a graduate program, etc. -- for most of us these play a small role in landing a job. Just ask the majority of people you know who have graduated from college. You'll find out a lot of people never went into the field they majored in and are actually quite successful in jobs that have nothing to do with their educational background. In many ways this is a good thing because it allows college graduates room for change.\nCompanies are looking for people who have been involved with more than just the academic side to school. So if you aren't doing anything now, get involved. However, be aware that simply joining a club as a resume-builder is not the route to go. Most employers are going to want to know how you were involved in the organization and what you did during the time you belonged.\nMany college graduates have revealed that they wished they had studied more areas in speaking, writing, group communication and leadership skills. These are all key areas employers need in the workplace. If you still have time, focus on building and improving your writing skills. The need to write well and effectively will never be replaced, no matter how advanced technology may become. \nInternships are also extremely important. Do as many as you can during your college career. Internships help students figure out if they want to pursue the field they are majoring in, provide hands on experience and teach skills that are crucial to the working world. For many students, internships are a gateway to landing future careers. If a company is impressed by your work ethic and skills, it will be more likely to hire you full-time once you graduate or recommend you to another company. \nOne way to get an job or an internship is to use your resources. Use the connections you have to your advantage. Although to some it may seem like a cop-out to rely on a family member or friend to get your foot into the door at a company, it's not. Companies are more likely to hire an individual that has been recommended by someone they know who will vouch for the individual's character and abilities.\nThese are all pieces of information I wish someone had told me my freshman year. But to those of you that still have time left, take advantage of the advice, and good luck.