Top Job Search Mistakes to Avoid as a Recent College Grad

Finding your first job out of college isn’t easy. Unemployment is currently at historic lows, and the competition for jobs in Boston is fierce. There are enough obstacles in place when it comes to finding a plum job that you never want to get in your own way. These are some of the most common job search mistakes recent grads make and advice on how to avoid them.

Focus Failures

When you need a job, it is easy to lose focus on what you truly want. An unfocused search leads to wasted time as you apply for jobs you don’t want or aren’t qualified for. Grads need to walk a fine line in their job search. It is important to have clearly defined goals, but you must not have such a narrow target that you limit your opportunities. Know what field you want to work in and which job titles you’d like to pursue, and then stick to them.

Salary Preoccupation

It is important to earn a living wage, and if you’re like most college grads, you’re staring down the barrel of a hefty student loan bill. However, it is important to have realistic salary expectations as an entry-level job seeker. Use online resources to determine what the going rates are for your target jobs in Boston. It also pays to talk to a professional recruiter, so you can learn your value in the market first hand.

Unwillingness to Start at the Bottom

It is a fact of life that everyone must pay their professional dues. You might be the smartest person in the room, but that doesn’t mean you’re qualified for leadership roles at this point in your career. Everyone has to start at the bottom and work their way to the top, but grads often expect a glamorous starting point. Remember, every successful person was an entry-level employee at one point in time and embrace your first job with gusto.

Not Utilizing All Available Resources

Conducting a job search on your own can be daunting, especially as a recent grad new to the professional world. It can take weeks to uncover good opportunities, and there is no guarantee you’ll even get called for an interview when you apply.

In Boston, recent grads have access to an effective resource for finding a job and getting their careers off the ground. Contemporaries, Inc. is a top Boston temp agency with a 98 percent success rate for placement, and 90 percent of our placements turn into permanent positions. Our strong relationships with our clients enables us to ensure you’re placed in a role that is a perfect match for you and the company. Contact us today to learn more about our commitment to your success as well as the benefits you will receive by joining our team.