10 Reasons College Graduates Can't Find a Job
Whether the economy is robust or bad these 10 reasons why college graduates can't find a job apply. I know this after thirteen years of working with new college graduates on the professional transition from college to career. If there are college students who are struggling with the job search and can't find a job, consider if some of these reasons might be holding you back from success.
Bad resumes and cover letters
Professional resumes and cover letters are important for a successful job search. Many college graduates don't get the help they need to develop professional resumes and cover letters. Some college graduates did not use career services on their college campuses before they graduated. Because of this many college graduates who can't find a job are sabotaging their own job searches. The HBCU Career Center’s job board provides free resume feedback here.
Did not use college career centers
Employers actively recruit thousands of new college graduates every year. Recruiters from these companies clock many hours working with career center staff to meet college students. Many of these motivated students land job offers before they graduate. If a college graduate can't find a job, it might not be too late to connect with the campus career center.
Not exploring internships after graduation
Internships are valuable professional experiences that a college student can experience while in college. However, there are many organizations that will offer internships to college graduates as well. College graduates who can't find a job after graduation should consider exploring internships. It is not too late. Find more information on our Career Insights tool to find expanding industries.
Engaged in negative social networking
This is a bigger issue than many college graduates think. Employers increasingly research applicants on social networking websites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. College graduates who can't find a job should immediately take steps to clean up any digital dirt in their online persona that could be sending the wrong message. At the very least, consider using a different name on your social media profile if it’s something you wouldn’t want your boss to see.
Lack leadership experience
One of the reasons employers overlook college graduates is a lack of leadership experience. Many of the college graduates who can't find a job, are the students who did not develop any leadership experience during college. Joining or organizing student clubs, participating in teams or even starting your own business offer great leadership opportunities in college. Employers look for these things on a college resume.
Don't know what employers want
Many college graduates can't find a job because they really don't know what employers want. Many college graduates focus more on selling their college majors rather than promoting work habits like initiative, flexibility and strong communication skills. College graduates that can't find a job, should honestly evaluate themselves by asking - do I have what employers want?
Poor networking skills
Many college graduates have mastered social networking but still have issues with face-to-face relationships. Many college graduates believe that a large online network of peers can replace the on-land network of supporters. These on-land supporter might be able to connect them with new opportunities. For college graduates who can't find a job, face-to-face networking is important. Connect with your college career center or join professional associations and participate in networking events.