Lessons from the Class of 2009 – #2 Don’t let the media define your job search

Do your remember all the bad news about the market for college graduates last year? As recruiters started canceling visits to college campuses, reporters forecast dire consequences for the graduating class. But what really did happen?

A significant number of students did not even try to find a job according to national statistics. Many moved home with family members and sat out the summer waiting for something to happen. Others filed graduate school applications in hopes that the market would improve in a couple of years and an additional credential would make them more marketable.

Many employers were conservative in their hiring, while others did not hire at all. In some fields, offers were deferred to a future date while employers tried to manage resources in a complex new economy.

Our experience was far better than the national averages. The percentage of students going to graduate school was identical to 2008 and while it took a bit longer, the jobs were there for those who were actively engaged in the job search process.

What does this mean for you as you plan your job search this year?

First, stay focused on your choice of career. If you have not tried an internship in your field, this semester would be a great time to start. The financial firms did extend offers last year, but most were given to former interns.

Avoid the temptation to follow the media lead with their reporting on ‘hot jobs’. If these careers appeal to you, definitely pursue them. However, do not completely change direction based on an internet story. Rather, continue your research on your career field and keep up to date on trends and market leaders.

Work on a short 2-3 sentence summary of what you are looking for. Whenever you meet someone, tell them your story. Members of your network can be more helpful if they know some specifics. This is the year to build your network. (see previous posts under the networking category)

Bottom line you need to be an expert in your field. Get involved in a professional association. Use class assignments as a way to learn more about your possible career choices. You do not want to end the year back at home watching the news about how people like you have no options.