If you are a communications student you’re certainly aware of just how tough it is to obtain your dream job. Whether you’re an incoming college freshman or a soon to be graduate, it is crucial that you do these 7 things before you leave college life and enter the “real world.”
1. Have a clear goal: Almost every career in the communications field is cut throat meaning you have to be considered the best of the best to obtain a job. Be sure to make clear career goals before you graduate from college, or else you may find yourself with a communications degree but still living at home at the age of 25.
2. Resume: Resumes are crucial if you plan to be successful after you finish college. Luckily, you have four years to create a perfect resume. Start off a resume your freshman year; put together all of your best professional accomplishments and continue to build your resume being sure to edit along the way. Every resume must be unique, so it's important to create a resume that makes you stand out.
3. Portfolio: Portfolios are a great way to compile all of your best work together so that future employers can see your strengths. For example: if you are a public relations major, put together any press releases you have created or even your best pieces of writing. If you are journalism major, you can put together your best articles that you have written in class or for your school's newspaper. Most importantly, make sure to present your portfolio in a nicely bound binder with high quality paper. Presentation is key!
4. Internships, Internships, and More Internships: Apply for internships because, let's face it, to be successful in most careers in the communications field, one has to have a few internships under his or her belt. Internships are the best way to get your foot in the door.
5. Organizations: Join some of the organizations at your university because it gives you the opportunity to meet new people. I personally made sure to join my university’s student run PR firm PRowl Public Relations. If you are a journalism major, join your university’s newspaper. If you're in advertising, seek out an advertising club. The great thing about college is that there are so many opportunities when it comes to organizations and many times you can find a organization that's tailored to your major. Remember connections, connections, connections.
6. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is not only a great way to engage with friends on a professional level, but it is also great way to network with industry professionals. Make sure your LinkedIn is always up to date and is updated frequently, because you never know who may want to enter your network.
7. Business cards: Business cards are a fast and easy way to get your information out into the world. Be sure to create a business card that not only gives your contact information but also looks great!
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Jummy Temidayo
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Jummy Temidayo
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