Before you get lost in planning that last spring break trip, commit to making these career resolutions.
Get an internship
In this competitive job market, relevant internship experience can mean the difference between a job offer and the infamous job search black hole. Interning is a great way to build up your resume, expand your professional network, and test drive career paths. If you're graduating this May, there's still time! Speak to your career services department about interning this semester and check out sites like CareerRookie, InternMatch, and YouTern for internship opportunities.
Clean up your online brand
As a college student, it's safe to assume you've had a social media presence since you entered high school, if not earlier. This works in your favor because you're already accustomed to using social media and should feel comfortable incorporating it into your job-search strategy. However, this comfort also comes at a cost. You've built up a long online history that's publicly visible and not necessarily appropriate for the professional world. Over the next few months, make it a goal to clean up your online brand by securing your personal accounts and building your professional profiles. Click on the following link for more social media dos and don'ts.
Grow your professional network
Studies have shown that you are ten times more likely to receive a job offer when your application includes an employee referral. Start building your network now so you can leverage your connections this spring. Attend skill-building seminars and get involved in student activities to boost your resume and meet other career-driven students. Once your LinkedIn profile is complete, connect with everyone you know -- from your friends and family to your professors and colleagues you met during your internships. You never know who may be the key to landing a job after graduation.
By pledging to fulfill a few final semester resolutions, you'll position yourself for a successful career right out of the gates. It's never too late to get started!
Click on the following link to access all my job-search advice for the recent college graduate.
Amanda Augustine is the Job Search Expert for TheLadders, the online job-matching service for all career-driven professionals. She provides job search and career guidance for professionals looking to make their next career move. Have a question for Amanda? Follow her at @JobSearchAmanda on Twitter and Like her on Facebook for up-to-the-minute job-search advice.