In today’s economy there are millions in the job market. New college graduates, high school graduates and out of work job seekers are all competing for the same few vacancies in the job market. The time to prepare for a job is not when you’re filling out your paperwork to graduate. You know you’re going to graduate at some point so preparation should begin the moment you enter college. This also plans for the non-graduation contingency clause should funding become an issue.

Internships provide experience

An internship is on-the-job training for many professional fields. Most internships, however, are unpaid. The trade off, however, far exceeds the number of hours you will not be receiving a paycheck. Internships afford you hands-on work experience, but it also provides background for you to place on a resume or complete a job application. If you do well while working in the internship you may also come through with additional benefits. The employer may decide to retain your information and offer you a job upon graduation. Even if a job offer is not forthcoming, you will be able to use the supervisor as a reference for other jobs you apply to.

Summer jobs keep skills sharp

Tempted to relax during the summer? After all you worked hard to keep up your grades during the school year. The summer time seems like a great time to take a break. If you’re tempted to spend the summer relaxing, sitting on the beach and sleeping in late, think again. The summer is the perfect time to find a job to brush up on skills and provide content for a resume. Even if the job is at a local fast food restaurant, remember, customer service skills are transferable where ever you go. Especially the customer types you will assist in a restaurant.

Academic Achievement raises the bar

Strive to do well in all of your college courses. You may not think that grades are important, but they are. Employers looking for fresh ideas will look at the GPA of any recent potential college grad hire. High grades in courses which are applicable to your potential career are extremely important. If you are not a recent college grad with previous work experience, your GPA will not be important.

Extra-curricular activities provide sustenance.

Get involved in extra-curricular activities to show leadership skills. Don’t just sign up for clubs. Strive to take a leadership role. Companies are looking for the next generation of managers and leaders. Becoming a club president will look very prestigious on a resume.

Bottom line, is it possible to create a job worthy resume fresh out of college? Absolutely! Just remember, the work begins the day you start