I’ve got my degree. . .

Now What?Jane M. Lump

5 Things to help you find your way

• Know your True North• Define your Brand• Tailor your selling points• Get yourself out there• Keep at it and don’t give up

Know Your True North

• A map can become outdated• You can hit barriers—need to take a detour,

change routes, go around obstacles to get where you are headed

• The business landscape today shifts rapidly• A compass remains true

Know Your True North

• What are your hard and fast requirements?– Geographic– Industry– Schedule– Salary

• Where are you willing/able to compromise?

Define Your Personal Brand

• What do you have to offer a potential employer?

• What makes you unique?• Why should someone take a chance on you?

Tailor your selling Points

Show interest in the Company• The top 3 competitors in this industry• The company’s strengths/weaknesses• The company’s vision and values• Industry trends (social, economic, etc.)

Show interest in the person you are talking to• Do your research—Google, LinkedIn• Ask well formed questions• Listen and show some genuine interest

Have Your Selling Points Ready

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Get Yourself Out There

• Make a list of everyone you know who may be able to help

• Ask for help—a simple e-mail introduction can work

• Be prepared to reciprocate• Attend networking groups and industry events• Volunteer• Have an active, targeted presence on social

media

Make the Most of Social Media

Be Aware of Your Brand

Join in the Conversation

Keep at It and Don’t Give Up

• Set aside time each and every day• Keep good records of what you do / who you

talk to / next steps• Always, always, always follow up

– Send thank you notes—real, US mail notes– Confirm appointments with a phone call—it’s

another reason to get in touch– Not hearing back doesn’t mean “no”

Questions?