7 things every first-time job seeker should know

7 things every first-time job seeker should know7 things every first-time job seeker should knowIf youre a new grad, youre likely getting your feet wet in the job search world. Theres much to navigate - resumes, cover letters, applications, and more. It can be overwhelming and exciting all at the saatkorn time. Were going over seven things we think every first-time job seeker should know to help you get focused and land a job. Use these tips to help guide you as you navigate the job search processHere are seven things every first-time job seeker should know1. Social media mattersBefore you even send off your first application, its imperative to clean up your social media profiles. Its estimated that93% of recruiterswill search for you on social media to evaluate you as a candidate.Look at your profiles and reviewthem from an HR perspective. Are there any photos, posts, or likes you might feel embarrassed by a potential employer seeing? Use privacy settings to make your profiles priv ate, and delete anything questionable. Ensure you have some professional accounts as well. LinkedIn and Twitter are great platforms to use professionally - you can connect with others and show off your industry expertise.2. Networking is keyNetworking isnt usually a crowd favorite, but who you know matters. Some studies have found that85% of jobs are filled by networking.If youre just out of college or high school, your connections from school are fresh. departure with professors, mentors, and school staff to see if they can guide you to a company or job.Ask for recommendationsfrom these people as well. And if any of them have a direct contact or connection to a job or company, ask for a referral. This will set you well ahead of those who apply without a personal contact or referral.3. Research the companyMost first-time job seekers know to craft their cover letter, make a killer resume, and brush up on their answers to interview questions, but not all know to thoroughlyresearch th e companytheyreapplying with. Yes, employers are looking for someone who has the skills to do the job, but theyre also looking for candidates who are knowledgeable and excited about the company itself.Use your cover letter to express this knowledge, and the interview stage is the place where you can really shine with your company enthusiasm.4. Resume keywords can save youAs a first-time job seeker, youll want to understandApplicant Tracking Systems (ATS). In short, they are automated systems that screen submitted applications and resumes for keywords that match the companys job description. These systems serve as time-savers for companies that receive large amounts of resumes, or that want to quickly weed out unqualified applicants. Anytime you submit a resume online through a companys website, youre likely encountering an ATS.Pour over the job description and ensure you use the same keywords and terminology that the company uses in your resume and cover letter. You may be a great c andidate, but your information could be tossed out simply for not having the right keywords.5. Look for related experienceSo many new grads struggle with how to relate viable experience on their resume when they dont have any. The truth is, you likely do have experience. Think beyond traditional job experience - did you participate in any internships or perform any volunteer work during your schooling? Did you use your skills to help a friend with anything that can serve as a work sample (perhaps some website design, writing, data entry, etc.)? Add them to your resume.6. Practice your interviewing skillsSince this is likely your first professional interview, youre probably going to need some preparation. Nerves and a lack of confidence can be common for first-time job seekers. You may feel you wont have much to talk about when it comes to your skills or experience. The best way to break through these jitters is to practice. Get comfortable with hearing yourself speak out loud. Writ e out your answers tocommon interview questionsand then say them out loud, whether to yourself or to a friend. When it comes time for the real thing, your practice can help you feel confident and know just what to say.7. Freelance or remote work are viable optionsYour first job doesnt have to be a 9-to-5 office job. Todays workforce is ripe withflexible work options.Consider a part-time job, two part-time jobs, freelance gigs, or a remote job. Expanding your search beyond a traditional full-time job will open you up to many more opportunitiesyou wouldnt find otherwise. FlexJobs is full of flexible work forentry-level candidatesin over 50 different career categories. Your perfect job could be right around the corner - happy searchingThis articlefirst appeared on FlexJobs.