Best Life: Common mistakes graduates make when searching for their first job

ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Graduating from college is an exciting and stressful time. You’ve put the work in at college and you’re ready to get a full-time job but landing your first job out of college isn’t always easy.

One common mistake new grads make: only applying for ideal jobs. Many grads have to start at an entry-level position to gain experience. And you might have to take something outside of your field.

One study found only 27% of employees had jobs directly relating to their undergraduate degree. A survey of over 250 employers revealed inappropriate or ineffective written communication was cited as the most common mistake grads make.

Also, 48% of those surveyed said recent graduates didn’t ask enough or appropriate questions at job interviews. About 47% said the applicants arrived late to interviews. Experts say you should arrive a little early, research the company and ask a minimum of three prepared questions.

Not networking is another mistake. Only about 50% of available job openings are ever published online, which means you need to network to find them.

Applicants are also 10 times more likely to land a job if their application includes a referral. Not following up after an interview is another common mistake. While you don’t want to come across as a pest, it’s a good idea to ask about the status of your position or thank the hiring manager for meeting with you.

Contributors to this news report include: Julie Marks, Producer; Roque Correa Editor and Videographer.

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