The New Graduate Job Search Guide

The New Graduate Job Search Guide
Essential tips for landing a job after college
www.SimplyHired.com
June 2011
The New Graduate Job Search Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction
p. 2
Part 1: Before the Big Search
p. 3
Organizing Your Job Search
p. 3
Part 2: Getting it Done: Searching & Applying
p. 5
Compiling Your Résumé
p. 5
Writing High-Impact Résumés and Cover Letters
p. 6
Tailoring Résumés and Cover Letters
p. 8
Places to Conduct a Job Search
p. 9
Part 3: Interview Success
p. 10
Phone Interviews
p. 10
How to Dress for (Interview) Success
p. 10
Questions to Ask
p. 11
Following Up
p. 11
Part 4: Accepting the Offer & Assuring Your Success
p. 12
A Guide to Reference Checks
p. 12
Evaluating and Accepting the Offer
p. 12
Make a Great Impression at Your First Job
p. 14
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Table of Contents | 1
The New Graduate Job Search Guide
Essential tips for landing a job after college
Introduction
Congrats! Those years of studying, taking tests, and
pulling all-nighters writing term papers are over. Now
it’s time for the working world—offering a wealth of
opportunities, potential for serious professional growth,
and most importantly ... getting paid!
Transitioning between graduation and full-time
employment can be a little daunting, but it’s important to
Employers anticipate
hiring 13.1% more 2011
college graduates than
they hired in 2010.
keep in mind that all new grads start in the same place.
So don’t worry. Like the lady once said, you “will survive!”
One of the biggest challenges new graduates face, after
the ring of fire (depending on your school), is merely
their lack of experience in searching for jobs. Compared
with more experienced workers, a new graduate may not
know the process of job searching, writing a résumé and
cover letter, networking with other professionals, or even
evaluating and negotiating job offers.
Each year, many companies are very interested in taking
on young professionals who are energetic and eager
to work and learn. In fact, the National Association of
Colleges and Employers (NACE) reports that employers
anticipate hiring 13% more 2011 college graduates than
they hired in 2010. So don’t despair, there are jobs for
new grads out there.
Finding your first job doesn’t have to be a long,
complicated process. We've compiled all the best advice
for your job search in this quick and dirty guide that we
hope is actually be fun to read (though, we chalk it up to
the comics rather than our sense of humor). This New
Graduate Job Search Guide will give you the best chances
of finding and landing your first job out of college!
– The Simply Hired Team
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Introduction | 2
Part 1:
Before the Big Search
Organizing Your Job Search
Keep a calendar & schedule
To get the most out of your job search, it’s essential to
go off track and miss opportunities without one), keep
be organized—and getting there isn’t complicated. It will
also keep any demanding old people you may know off
your back. An organized job search is more time efficient
too (this means more Wii Tennis later!). Here’s how to
get organized...
Define your ideal job
Do you like people? Do you like to work independently?
Do you like the cache of a big conglomerate? The
personal touch of a small company? Do you mind a
commute? What’re you good at? Do you enjoy rapid-fire
questions? Our point is this: Listing the attributes of your
ideal job—such as a focus on social media, a job located
in the city, a job at Disney, or the title "Network Test
Engineer"—will give you a starting point.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Make a daily plan (this is very important; it’s easy to
track of upcoming interviews as well as follow-ups
with employers and other appointments. Go out and
get yourself a calendar to keep track. We recommend
the Hottest Hiring Managers of the Year calendar—or,
y’know, whatever works best for you.
Manage contacts
Track who you meet during your job search—yes, even
the weirdos. Include people you’ve interviewed with or
met at events, recruiters you’ve been in contact with, and
people who have served as your references. Note their
contact information, company, and what they’ve done to
help in your search. This is good prep for the “thank you”
notes you’ll send later. (You will send a thank you note,
right? [The answer’s “Yes!”])
Before the Big Search | 3
File management
If you create different résumés and cover letters for each
job opportunity (*cough* You should do this *cough*), you’ll
find yourself with multiple versions on your computer. To
keep track of your myriad files, organize your application
materials into separate folders and make sure your naming
strategy makes sense: high-level “Résumés” and “Cover
Letters” folders, with subfolders for “Cover Letter-IBM” or
“Résumé-Graphic Design,” etc. Of course, be careful not
to name a file something silly or self-deprecating like “Just
another Dang Résumé” as, if you’re sending those out,
someone’s gonna see that after all.
Use email folders to track progress
Keep all job communications neatly organized. We
suggest using trained orangutans to manage your info
"You may not remember me. I'm
the person who's been sending you
hundreds of emails asking for an
appointment."
employers and hiring managers considering you.
• Opportunities: This is for communication with your
or, perhaps, simply create folders and subfolders, which
references and people recommending you, talking
follow the flow of your job searching.
about opportunities, asking for advice, and so forth.
If you’re stuck with folders: In a top-level folder named, for
example, “Job Search,” create subfolders for:
• Unsolicited: Emails sent directly to recruiters or
employers.
• Potentials: Email alerts and messages mentioning
prospective jobs to pursue.
• Prospects: Exchanges between yourself and the
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
• Dings: They took your résumé and placed it in their
circular file? The nerve! But think of it as you rejecting
them (Take that!) ... and this folder’s a good way to
ensure you don’t reach out to them again.
You’ll find that a little organization will make a big difference. So will a little cardamom. (Oops, sorry—that’s from
our New Chef Cooking Guide).
Before the Big Search | 4
Part 2:
Getting it Done: Searching & Applying
Compiling Your Resume
ˇ Chronological Résumé
Mary Whitticker 120 Main Street San Jose, CA 95101 555.555.5555 (home) 566.486.2222 (cell) mwhitticker@xyz.com If you haven’t heard it, you will: “You need experience to get a
job, but you need a job to get experience.” But you might have
more experience than you think.
Look back on anything you’ve done that relates to the positions
you’re interested in—coursework, extracurricular clubs, and
the like (the school newspaper or what-have-you), volunteer
jobs, even summer jobs, or internships. Showcase this past
experience on your résumé. Spent a summer pretending
to be Master Chief? Boom—tactical and diplomatic skills!
(Seriously: NO)
Much like snowflakes or tacos, no two résumés are exactly
the same. However, we recommend two formats: the
chronological or the functional résumé. Depending on your
Education San Jose State College, San Jose, CA B.S. Business, GPA: 3.9 Graduated Manga Cum Laude Experience Retail Development Intern, Macy’s May 2010 -­‐ September 2010 San Jose, CA • Developed social media marketing plan to increase buyers • Analyzed business to determine cost-­‐saving opportunities • Coordinated office space and events for department Retail Associate, Nordstrom July 2009 -­‐ August 2009 San Jose, CA • Highest commission earner in Men’s Clothing department • Worked with tailors and seamstresses for fittings • Scheduled private shopping appointments with high-­‐end customers Purchasing Intern, Orchard Supply Hardware June 2008-­‐ September 2008 Sunnyvale, CA • Assisted in supply/demand planning, distribution and inventory management • Assisted with day-­‐to-­‐day vendor contact and follow up Additional Skills •
•
specific background, these will best highlight your strengths
and downplay your limited experience.
Chronological Résumé
Proficient with Microsoft Office Some HTML and CSS experience ˇ Functional Résumé
Chronological résumés are the most popular type of résumé
and most preferred by employers. Typically, you’ll list your
work history followed by education and skills. However, as
a new grad, list your education first—lead with your strong
suit. Then, list your work history (consider naming this your
“Professional and Academic Experience” if you include large
projects or programs in this section). In addition, you will
typically include a skills section, to highlight technical abilities
(e.g., computer programs or programming, automotive repair
experience, flux capacitor expertise, etc.), laboratory skills,
languages, etc.
Functional Résumé
A functional résumé concentrates more on the skills you
have acquired, as opposed to a list of positions you have
held. Functional résumés highlight key areas of experience to
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Mary Whitticker 120 Main Street San Jose, CA 95101 555.555.5555 (home) 566.486.2222 (cell) mwhitticker@xyz.com Education San Jose State College, San Jose, CA B.S. Business, GPA: 3.9 Graduated Manga Cum Laude Experience Highlights Sales and Customer Service • Greeted and assisted customers in high-­‐end clothing store. Demonstrated ability to upsell, deal with irate customers and maintain composure. • Scheduled private shopping appointments with high-­‐end customers, providing increased attention and support. From these private shopping appointments, earned the highest commission of all salespeople during employment. • Provided excellent customer service working with customers, tailors seamstresses for fittings through clear communication and attention to detail. Inventory and Purchasing • Determined more cost-­‐saving opportunities by performing analysis on clothing and accessories vendors • Assisted in supply/demand planning, distribution and inventory management • Assisted with day-­‐to-­‐day vendor contact and follow up Administrative Support • Coordinated office space and events for retail development department, including scheduling meetings, booking office and event space and coordinating with catering and audio/visual departments • Follow up with attendee list, and prepared all handout materials for all department meetings Work History RETAIL DEVELOPMENT INTERN, Macy’s, San Jose, CA RETAIL ASSOCIATE, Nordstrom, San Jose, CA PURCHASING INTERN, Orchard Supply Hardware, Sunnyvale, CA Getting it Done: Searching & Applying | 5
focus on responsibilities and accomplishments. These
this person?” Your cover letter is a chance to introduce
skill “clusters” should be specific and filled with lots of
yourself to the employer. Rather than use the letter to
context—don’t skimp on the details; tell as much as you
merely summarize your résumé—which they have in their
can about each one of your related experiences.
possession—take the opportunity to explain why you are
Functional résumés are a good option for new graduates
who possess little professional experience. Keep in
mind that many recruiters and employers do not prefer
the best candidate for the position. Customize the letter to
each employer’s individual needs and convince them that
you’re qualified.
functional résumés. Since most online applications
Focus on accomplishments
require you to list out your experience job by job,
You need to stand out from thousands of other appli-
functional résumés are not accepted on most online
cants, from the friends of the people who work there
employer career pages and job sites.
getting recommended for jobs to the CEO’s own kid in
need of a job. So, how do you do this? Accomplishments!
Instead of merely describing your responsibilities, such
as “Performed fundraising tasks,” write something akin
to: “Raised $30,000 for research by establishing a new
fundraising auction which drew over 5,000 people.”
Employers like to know what you did! Did you found a new
club on campus, plan a charity event for your sorority, win
an award for outstanding work in the department for your
major? This is all important—and if you’ve shown leader-
"I'm very impressed by your résumé.
I'm concerned, however, to see that
you crossed off someone else's
name and wrote yours just above it."
Writing High-Impact Resumes and
Cover Letters
ship or earned/saved dollar amounts, that always goes
over well too!
Personalize
Always address your cover letter to the person doing the
hiring. No name included in the job posting? Do a quick
search for the name of the company’s recruiter or HR
Manager on LinkedIn. Dead end? You can still personalize
it. Sure, you can write “Dear Person Who’ll Hire Me:,” but
Throw away the tired idea that résumés and cover letters
a better idea is to direct it to the person’s position or the
are meant to just reiterate the jobs you have previously
company—for example, “Dear Editorial Department Hiring
held. These things are the late-night infomercial that
Manager:” or “Dear Online Shoe Store Recruiter:” ... this
you can’t shut off, that one-in-a-million radio ad that you
shows you’re paying attention at least. And, remember, the
actually turn up the volume for. They’re selling the best
recruiter’s not your buddy, so no jokes or “Dude, I’d totally
product out there: You!
rock this job.” Be professional.
These two items will answer that particular question the
Keep it short
hiring manager is asking, namely, “Do I want to interview
Recruiters receive hundreds or even thousands of
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Getting it Done: Searching & Applying | 6
applications for a single opening. Limit your cover letter
to just two or three high-impact paragraphs and a strong
Tailoring Résumés and Cover Letters
sign-off (and mention that you’ll follow-up if you’re
Carefully read the job description. Employers list the exact
applying for something where it is appropriate to do so).
requirements of the role in there (well, they should anyway),
Prooflead! Propfread! Proofread!
This might sound obvious but proofread your résumé and
so your cover letter and résumé must highlight how you are
the perfect match.
cover letter! NO misspellings or grammatical errors—or
Here’s what to focus on:
so much as a single typo—should appear on either. But
• Language: Read the job description thoroughly and
it’s virtually impossible to proof your own work, so if you
modify your résumé and cover letter to match the language
have a few standard cover letters which you are making
used in the job listing. Recruiters often look for specific
changes to (and you should be) for each job, send those
keywords and phrases in the résumés and cover letters
letters to friends, family, and maybe to the really smart
they receive—or they’ve got electronic scanning software
parakeet the bizarre dude down the street has; ask them
to do it for them. Yes, welcome to the future, Marty!
all to look for mistakes. A fresh perspective can mayhap
• Qualifications: Emphasize your qualifications by
turn up errors of which one might find to be awkward
specifically calling out how you fit the requirements of
perhaps. Like the previous sentence.
the position. Remove qualifications that aren’t relevant
or move them to a “Skills” section at the bottom of
your résumé.
• Ordering: No, we’re not asking if you want fries with
that. Typically, employers put the most important
requirements at the beginning of the job description
and then, later, list the optional or less important skills.
In your résumé and cover letter, rearrange your skills
so that your most important requirements match theirs
and are highlighted first.
"I see from your résumé you spent
fore years at bizness skool."
Follow directions
If you’re asked to include your résumé in the body of
an email, send it in the body of the email—period. If
you’re asked to answer a few questions in the cover
letter, answer them. (No ifs, ands, or buts allowed here.)
No submission instructions? It’s generally accepted to
include your cover letter in the body of the email, with
your résumé attached or included below your cover letter.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
"You'll have to look harder than that
to find a job, son."
Getting it Done: Searching & Applying | 7
Places to Conduct a Job Search
Many companies are itching to hire new graduates. Here’s how to find those companies...
Online job sites
SimplyHired.com, for instance, allows you to search thousands of online job sites in one place. Just enter keywords
describing your dream job into the search box, the location you’d like to work into the Location field, and hit the Search
button. The results page will display jobs from all over the Web which match your query.
Social networking sites
Social networks, while great for posting pics of you car surfing in nothing but your skivvies, also allow you to tap into
your contacts and can be an effective way to job search (as such, maybe think twice about posting your scantily clad
automotive acrobatics). Most employers promote referral hiring, so if someone you know can refer you to an open
position at his or her company, your chances of getting your résumé into the hands of the hiring manager increase
dramatically.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Getting it Done: Searching & Applying | 8
Brian A.
In-house Graphic
Designer
From LinkedIn
See all 26 connections
SimplyHired.com has some cool features that let you take advantage of your social networks in your job search.
Who Do I Know® feature – If you find a great job on SimplyHired.com, you can use this feature to see if any of your
LinkedIn connections are working (or have worked) at the companies in your search results. This way you can enlist
their help to get you an interview.
Integration with Facebook – Often, your Facebook friends are the people who you have the closest connection with,
or people who vaguely know you but could help anyway, and could assist in your job search. Our integration with
Facebook will help you identify where your friends work so that you can ask them to recommend you for a job within
their company.
You can also utilize social networks themselves in your job search. Update your profile on LinkedIn to share with
others (and allow recruiters to find you online!), become a fan of your dream companies on Facebook to keep up-todate with their news (some may post their jobs as well), and search for jobs and follow recruiters on Twitter.
College career center
As a graduate, you can use your alma mater’s career center as a source for jobs and career advice. Many college
career centers work with alumni to get job listings from their companies; others have on-campus interviewing
programs for employers, so you can line up a job without leaving campus.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Getting it Done: Searching & Applying | 9
Part 3:
Interview Success
Phone Interviews
Employers often use phone interviews as a way
to screen candidates for in-person interviews. So
be happy you get to save yourself a few bucks on
a commute; we’re here to help you get to the next
round...
While you’re on the call, it’s important to treat it like
a real interview. Find a quiet place to take the call that
is free of distractions (and definitely not while you’re
walking your dog, eating lunch, or, for goodness sake,
driving!). If you don’t have good cell phone reception
(“Can you hear me now?”) or are busy with something
else, ask if you can reschedule and consider giving
them a landline number. Although they might be a
thousand miles away, speak as if the person is right in
front of you—stand up, project your voice, speak clearly
and don’t chew gum, eat, or smoke while on the call.
"I'm not sure you understand
what we mean by next
generation leadership..."
How to Dress for (Interview) Success
We’ve all heard tired adages related to your appearance,
including “Dress for success,” “You never get a second
chance to make a first impression,” or “Leggo my Eggo.” Or
at least two of those. But there is more than a kernel of truth
to those overused sayings. First, that is our Eggo. Next, you
Keep a pen with you to take notes or write down
can have a stellar résumé and diamond-studded background,
questions you’d like to ask during your phone inter-
but if the interviewer’s first impression of you is less than
view. Make sure you’ve practiced answers to some of
satisfactory, you can kiss the job goodbye.
the most common interview questions they’ll likely
ask you—those which usually cover past experience,
strengths and weaknesses, and especially salary
expectations.
Save for a black tie and tails, it’s nearly impossible to overdress for an interview. But many people underdress and that
can be seen as a sign you don’t care about the job. Don't wear
T-shirts, plaid button-downs, skirts that barely reach mid-
At the end of the call, make sure you’ve gotten your
thigh (that goes for you too, guys), or skinny jeans. Dress
interviewer’s (or interviewers’ or interviewerers?) name
neatly and professionally. Guys, think jacket, slacks and a
and contact information. Ask about the spelling of their
business-suitable button-down shirt with a tie—a suit if
name—even simple names like Tom or Anne can be
you’ve got one. Gals, a business suit is best, but a conservative
Thom or Ann. Be certain you thank the interviewer for
top with nice slacks or a conservative dress work great too.
his or her time on the call and send him/her a thank
you note.
If you’re still unsure of what to wear, you can always call or
email the HR department of the company and ask what attire
is appropriate for your interview.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Interview Success | 10
Questions to Ask
A successful interview should be a two-way conversation
Here are some questions NOT to ask in an interview:
where the interviewer learns more about your qualifica-
1. Will I ever have to work overtime?
tions, and you learn if the position and the company are
2. If I told you you had a beautiful body, would you hold
a good fit for you. Asking questions empowers you with
knowledge and shows the employer you’re interested in
the position.
Some basic guidelines on asking questions in an interview:
• Come prepared with questions to ask.
• Ask open-ended questions to learn more about the
way things work.
• Ask questions that show you’ve researched the
company.
• Let the interviewer initiate the subject of salary and
it against me?
3. I’m mad hungry. I’ve a Kit Kat bar in my bag—
splitsies?
Following Up
After an interview, your follow-up can make or break
your chances of getting the job. This extra step doesn’t
take much time, but it can be a great way to stand out
from other applicants. Some hiring managers won’t even
hire a candidate that didn’t write a thank you note. Even if
benefits; if it doesn’t come up, wait until you receive an
you decide the job isn’t a good fit, send a thank you note
offer and start your negotiations then.
showing your appreciation to them for taking the time
Need ideas to get you started?
Here are some examples of questions to ask in an interview:
to meet with you, so you don’t burn any bridges—your
dream job just might open up in the future.
1. If I’m hired, what would be my first project?
Here are some interview follow-up tips:
2. What advancement and educational opportunities are
• During an in-person interview, ask for your
available for this position and in this company?
3. Can you tell me about the company culture?
4. When will a hiring decision be made?
5. How would you define “success” in this role?
interviewer’s business card to make certain you have
his or her name and contact information.
• Send a personal message within 24 hours after the
interview, thanking each person you met with for
taking the time to talk with you:
– Highlight your qualifications and reiterate your
interest in the job (assuming you are interested).
– Use this opportunity to ask any questions you forgot
to ask or make additional comments.
– Send the interviewer any additional materials to be
considered, like a portfolio, website, or other
examples of work.
• Keep it short.
• Proofread your note before sending!
"Excellent interview, you're hired!"
These tips for interview follow-up may be the key to
landing your next job!
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Interview Success | 11
Part 4:
Accepting the Offer & Assuring Your Success
A Guide to Reference Checks
After an employer has determined you have all the
requirements for their opening, they’ll often ask you to
submit a list of references for them to call. Reference
checks are a common part of the hiring process and
serve two main purposes—to verify, 1. your previous
employment and, 2. your past work performance.
Employers want to ensure they’re making fully educated
decisions about whether a candidate is right for the job
before they offer a position.
Ask potential references for their permission in
advance and verify you have their correct contact
"Why do all your references scream
and slam down the phone when
I mention your name?"
information. As a recent grad, potential references could
be professors you’re close to or have worked closely with,
advisors for clubs and groups on campus, employers from
internships or part-time jobs you’ve held, or even coaches
from sports teams.
Give each reference a list of talking points, describing
the position and giving insight into the kinds of questions
they may be asked, such as your work ethic, how well you
work under pressure, etc.
Keep your references updated on your progress. Tell
them which companies might contact them and, if
possible, job descriptions for the potential positions.
Evaluating and Accepting the Offer
After many hours of applying for jobs, attending
networking events, preparing for interviews, and talking
to potential employers, you might be ready to shout
“Hallelujah” and start celebrating in the wake of any
job offer you receive. However, don’t bust out the hard
lemonade yet. There are a few steps you still need to take
before accepting the offer.
Once you receive an offer, it’s important to ask the
following three questions.
1. When do you need an answer by?
Remember to thank your references for their support
Most companies will usually give you at least 24 hours
throughout your search and show them how much they’re
or a few days to get back to them.
appreciated by sending an email or taking them out for a
nice meal.
Follow these guidelines and you’ll receive much more
impressive recommendations from your references. We
swear by it!
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
2. Can you send me a copy of the offer and benefits package?
The job search isn’t over until you have a hard copy of
the job offer in your hand. Have the employer send you
the entire package for your review, to make sure you
and the employer are on the same page.
Accepting the Offer & Assuring Your Success | 12
3. Who should I speak with if I have questions about the
Benefits Package – Does the company provide the medical
benefits package?
insurance that you would like—or perhaps need? What
Even if the direct supervisor for the position gave you
retirement options does the company provide?
the offer, it might make more sense to speak with
someone in HR if you have a question about the health
care plan for instance.
Workplace/Company Culture – Does the company provide a
workplace setting and company culture where you will be
happy and successful? Are the company’s values compatible with your own? If not, you might consider continuing
your search to find a company that is a better fit.
Other considerations include opportunities for growth,
career development and training, how well you believe
you will be able to work with your potential supervisor and
co-workers, the hours you’d work, and whether flextime or
working from home is acceptable.
If you’re happy with the terms of the job offer and benefits,
"You must be testing me with
this salary offer, to be sure
I'm not insane."
congratulations! You’re all set to accept (and we only ask
a 12% fee from each check as thanks). Otherwise, discuss
anything you would like to negotiate with the person who
extended the offer. After all negotiations are complete, ask
for everything in writing again. Now you’re set to accept (or
Next, review the job offer and benefits package and list
turn down) the offer!
any questions or concerns you have about it. You’ll want
these questions ready when you return the call of the
person who made the job offer.
Things to consider:
Job Responsibilities/Title – Will you enjoy the work? Is
it a good start for you or your career? Are you willing
to perform the requirements for the job (the workload,
commute time, etc.)? Does the job have a suitable
amount of responsibility for your experience?
Compensation – Is the pay what you were expecting?
Will you be able to pay your bills? Is the salary in the
typical range for someone for an entry-level position in
your field and location? If not, ask if the salary is open to
"I'm sorry, my reputation usually
precedes me."
discussion.
The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
Accepting the Offer & Assuring Your Success | 13
Make a Great First Impression at
Your First Job
Ask questions & take notes
It’s a tough economy for recent grads, so be proud of
how interested you are in making a good impression. By
yourself when you get that gig! In the first few weeks,
keeping notes, you won’t have to ask your manager the
you may feel overwhelmed as you transition into your
same question multiple times, and you won’t forget any
new position—don’t stress! We’ve some tips for making
of your assignments.
a great first impression at your first job.
This is the best way to keep up with all the info coming
at you in your first days. Your supervisors will also notice
Take initiative
Don’t be late!
Your employer believes you will be an important
Arrive at your new place of work on time or even a little
contributor to their team. So, don’t be afraid to speak up
early on your first day. They’ll likely have paperwork for
in meetings and offer your opinion in a respectful way (!).
you and may plan on showing you around.
Ask what you can do to help the team—take initiative to
complete or contribute to projects. Go above and beyond
Dress appropriately
your initial position’s requirements to stand out. This is a
Typical workplace attire can range from a suit and tie
chance for you to learn and grow as a young professional
to jeans and a T-shirt but dressing too casually or too
and show your manager that you’re not afraid to take on
revealing can leave others with a bad impression. Dress
challenging projects.
professionally at first (think interview attire), and by the
end of the first week, you’ll know whether or not cutoffs
and nose rings are acceptable attire.
And there you have it! Keep this guide close, highlight
the sections you found most helpful, store it under your
pillow, and go out there and attain that awesome job you
know you deserve!
About Simply Hired
With over eight million job listings, Simply Hired (www.SimplyHired.com) is the world’s largest job search
engine—25 times the size of the biggest job board. Servicing 16 million monthly users across 23 countries, the
company powers jobs on over 10,000 network partner sites, including LinkedIn, CNNMoney, The Washington
Post, and BusinessWeek. Reaching passive as well as active candidates, the Simply Hired network delivers
millions of targeted job applicants and boasts one of the lowest cost-per-hire rates in the industry. The
company is based in Mountain View, California, and is funded by Foundation Capital and IDG Ventures.
Follow Simply Hired on
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The New Graduate Job Search Guide | Simply Hired, inc.
blog.simplyhired.com
Accepting the Offer & Assuring Your Success | 14