Career Readiness Advice

1. Network extensively.  Attend industry events, reaching out to friends, family, former classmates and colleagues, and check to see what career resources your alma mater offers (many provide extensive help to job seekers free of charge). 
2. Make the internet your friend.  Utilize career-focused social media portals like LinkedIn to connect with former colleagues and bosses, join industry relevant groups, and request recommendations from past supervisors (and don’t forget to make sure your digital presence is squeaky clean!).
3. Reach out to company’s you’re interested in working for directly to inquire about career opportunities and current openings.
4. Don’t be afraid to work for free.  Volunteering and interning are great ways to get your foot in the door and can be a tremendous learning experience.
5. Help other job seekers.  If you hear of a job that isn’t quite right for you, see if it is a fit for anyone else you know and send it to them.  Perhaps someday they’ll return the favor.
6. Make a great impression in an interview.  This means arriving on time, appropriately dressed and having thoroughly researched the company and position to which you are applying.
7. Keep a polished and up to date resume on hand at all times.
8. Have a well-rehearsed elevator speech (short summary of your skills, experience and goals) front of mind should you meet someone unexpectedly.
9. Stay up to date on trends and industry happenings and do whatever you can to acquire new skills companies are starting to look for in potential hires.
10. Join a support group with other job seekers to help you stay positive, accountable and on track.

Need more career readiness advice? Visit the MySECO Portal at https://myseco.militaryonesource.mil/portal/ for articles, tools, and resources.