No matter what you're getting your degree in, there are some basic skills that you cannot leave college without. This is especially true if you're graduating and do not have a job or post-graduate study lined up. Job searching or applying for a graduate/professional program can be stressful if you feel like you do not have the qualifications.
Check out some of the skills below and see if you have mastered them. If not, take some time to do it. You'll be glad you did.
Crafting an Outstanding Resume
Do you know how many resumes are seen by employers everyday? Me either, but I can only imagine. These days people are applying for jobs like crazy whether they are qualified for them or not because they need to work. The best way to stand out amongst that many people is to have a killer resume.
Many companies still prefer those black and white resumes, but you now have a little freedom to add some color; usually just one. Most importantly, focus on the content. The top to bottom rule is still golden. So, put all of your most relevant info at the top.
Get some digital skills
Whether it's website design, coding or basic video or photo editing, having these skills on your resume makes you look for appealing. One of my first jobs at the college where I work now was in public relations. My degree is in broadcast journalism, which isn't exactly public relations. Yet, I had photo and video editing skills and proven social media experience. Where I lacked in experience (i.e. writing press releases), I made up for in other skills that the office definitely needed. Even if you're planning to work at a financial institution, having the ability to run social media for a company or perform some basic coding work can really be an asset.
And there are resources all around you. I'm currently learning how to code through the website
Codecademy. I learned everything I know about photography through
Creative Live. And I'm currently looking into some classes on
iTunesU to learn some basic graphic design skills. Keep learning. You will need more skills than those within your degree. Trust me!
Branding Yourself
No, you don't have to be starting or running a business to care about branding. The most important brand in your life is yourself. I know, you hate the word brand and you don't want to consider yourself a brand, but the truth is to employers and even grad schools you are a brand.
When you apply, they are searching for you on Google. They are looking at your social media. So, you have to be sure that what they find is what you want them to see. Be smart and intentional. Create an online presence that makes someone want to hire you or at least meet you. It's not guaranteed, but getting serious about your personal brand can't hurt you.
What skills do you think you need for you post grad life? Let me know in the comments below or tweet me
@whitandlove!
Always in love,
