5 Career Tips for Graduating Seniors

May 17, 2014, marks a monumental day in the lives of senior Hawks: commencement. If you’re preparing for graduation and unsure what step to take next, here are a few tips for you to keep in mind as you job search.

1. Know who you are. The more you know who you are and how to convey that, the more focused you can be with your job search. Take time to research what you want to do and where you want to do it. Have you hit a road block or are you not sure where to start? Career Services can help through career assessments, job shadowing opportunities and much more.
2. Be professional. It’s important to always present yourself in a professional manner. This includes changing your email address if necessary, as well as your voicemail greeting. Proofread all correspondence at least twice before you hit send. Perfect your resume by allowing others to proofread it multiple times. Answer your phone as if it is the call that could change your life. Dress appropriately. It is better to be over-dressed than under-dressed.  Employers want to hire someone who will represent their organization well and hit the ground running.
3. Practice your interview techniques. Run through your elevator speech – that 45-second introduction that provides an overview of who you are and what you are seeking. Prepare detailed examples of your successes and challenges. Emphasize what you can do for the organization, not what they can do for you.
4. Use all the resources available to you. To secure a job, it’s often about who you know. Don't be afraid to use your Rockhurst network, as well as connections through family and friends. Utilize all web-based resources. Connect with Career Services. Join professional organizations and attend their networking events. Introduce yourself and let people know you are seeking employment. In other words, the more opportunities you create for yourself, the better chance you will have at landing a job you love. Finally, don’t forget to write thank-you notes to everyone you interview with.
5. Be confident. You’re graduating from a prestigious university. You’ve worked hard to earn that degree, and you have a lot to offer. Believe in yourself and your abilities.

Questions? Career Services is here to help. Contact Mike Theobald, director, at 816-501-4861 or mike.theobald@rockhurst.edu.