Job hunting for college grads

By Seattle Business Magazine October 19, 2010

Earlier this month I reported some statistics indicating that degree holders are generally weathering the recession better than those without degrees. In August, the national unemployment rate among college graduates was 4.6 percent, versus the general unemployment rate of 9.6 percent.

For college graduates who are still looking for work, those numbers might not be encouraging. However, Sara Eide, Seattle branch manager at Robert Half International, says an associate’s or bachelor’s degree gives job seekers a competitive edge.

“Especially in a competitive job market, any advantage helps, and that college degree is an advantage.”

Right now, the degrees most in demand are those in the fields of web design, marketing, and accounting. Eide adds that liberal arts degrees are also beneficial for job hunters. People with liberal arts degrees typically have stronger communication skills.

Although frustration is high in this economic climate, Eide encourages job seekers to remain positive. Some people might carry their frustration with them into job interviews, and this can hurt their chances of getting hired. Eide advises recent graduates to be open to any job possibility that might come their way. She also recommends reaching out directly to companies that are growing and hiring.

“You almost have to be your own sales person,” she said. “Don’t wait for things to come to you.”

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