Parents

Give your Graduate the skills to compete
in today’s tough job market!

Have you watched your adult child sail through the college experience only to be greeted by a dismal job market?

If so, you wouldn’t be alone. Research shows that 53% of undergrads under the age of 25 are unemployed or under-employed. Not good.

However, in working with many young adults, I find they struggle with the job search process.

Many are very comfortable with online job applications. But the fact of the matter is that very few jobs are sourced that way.

Only 7 – 10% of jobs are secured through an online application process.  –Richard Bolles

On the other hand, up to 60% of jobs are sourced through personally networked referrals. That’s a strategy a bit more daunting to recent grads.

Is your adult child frustrated?

Here’s a recent blog I posted talking about the red flags I see, that mean it might be time to find some professional help.

Where recent grads are lacking in the job search

1. Most recent grads are simply not adept at marketing themselves, and their value proposition, to employers. It’s understandable, because it’s a wholly different way of showing up than college required.

Generally, resumes and cover letters are poorly designed, and they’re not getting through employer screening processes. Online profiles are sparse or non-existent. Key messages often lack clarity and specificity.

Check with your grad. Ask them to describe the five most important qualities they offer an employer, and how the employer will benefit from hiring them.

2. Many grads are unfamiliar with and/or uncomfortable with the interview process. If your messages are not clear, then for sure it will be even harder to articulate them in a conversation with a hiring manager.

Since interviews will get you job offers, it’s critical that you have and exhibit a strong competency in the interview process.

Check with your grad. Ask him or her to tell you a couple of their behavioral stories they would tell in answer to standard interview questions.

2. Most recent grads don’t have structure and rigor around the job search they need to compete in this market. It requires working toward a goal in a very different manner than getting good grades did.

We are far passed the point of sending out a cover letter and resume, and expecting to get a job.

Check with your grad. Ask them what their job search strategy is, and how they determine what steps they’ll take each day to move toward his or her goals.

In today’s market, applicants need a multitude of strategies to compete.

They need an online strategy, off-line strategy, networking and informational interview strategy, a niche market strategy, a social media strategy and more. They need sparkling marketing materials and outstanding interview persona.

Does your grad have what it takes?

Yes, the job market is tough, and competitive. It takes a lot of determination and hard work. You must have good materials and an excellent plan to increase your chance to find the job you want.

If you are ready for your grad to make more progress, design a better plan and get more confidence in the job search, see my Job Search Fundamentals for recent grads and young adults.

Because we need to get your recent grads and young adults thriving in the workplace.