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Do not let your job search get the best of you. It is not as hard as it may feel. With a few pointers and a little bit of hard work, you will be on your way to your dream job! Here are our top 10 tips for finding a career as a recent graduate.

1. Career Goals
Plan out your career goals. If you do not already have a general idea of what careers or industries interest you, it is time to start researching. This process is a very crucial step that most people forget to do before they start applying. Finding a job is not easy, but knowing what careers interest, you will make your job search a breeze.

2. Resume and Cover Letter
Once you have determined your career goals, it is time to polish your resume and cover letter. Your resume and cover letter should be tailored for the type of career path and industry you would like to work in.

3. Social Media
Social media is such an integral part of our lives, even for employers. Your profile can reveal so much about you in just a matter of seconds. A quick Google search will show you what employers can see when they look you up. If you have inappropriate pictures or posts visible to employers, it will negatively impact your chances of landing a job. So, please clean up your social media or make it private.

4. Networking
I can not stress this one enough! Networking is such an essential step during the job search process. The highly competitive job market makes it exceedingly difficult to get a job with just a resume and cover letter in specific industries. Networking is a great way to meet potential employers and learn about an industry that interests you. One of many great ways to network is by setting up informational interviews.

5. Patience and Persistence
The job search process can feel long, tedious, and at times, never-ending. But that is okay! Do not expect your dream job on a silver platter; you must work for it. Exercise patience during this process and be persistent with potential employers.

6. Find an Internship
Internships are a great way to gain industry experience, learn a new skill, and open doors to new opportunities. Internships are also beneficial if you do not know what you want to do with your career. Since they are typically short-term positions (average is three months), you can try out different roles and industries until you find something that you like.

7. Freelance
Freelancing is a great alternative that allows you to be your own boss. Although it does take some time to build a client base, your self-employed income will multiply in no time. With remote work on the rise, it is easier to become a freelancer than ever before. However, you need to know how to market yourself.

8. Learn a New Skill
You can learn a new skill during your free time while searching for jobs. Taking the time to learn something new shows employers that you did something valuable while you were unemployed rather than doing nothing. If a career requires you to be skilled in something you are unfamiliar with, then it is time to start learning!

9. Be Kind to Yourself
It is okay to take some time off from your job search. Everyone needs a little recharge and reset once in a while. Spend some time doing something that energizes or excites you. You will have a renewed sense of energy that will motivate you when you return to your job search.

10. Your Support System
At times, your job search will feel draining and discouraging. Having a solid support system such as your family and friends is crucial. Your support system is there to help and motivate you when things get tough, so don’t forget to utilize them.

Best of luck with your job search! If all else fails, Polishing The Professional can help you get on track with your career. Visit our website at www.polishingtheprofessional.com or call (877) 765-4748 to learn more about our services and how we can help you succeed in your job search.