Your Career Path Starts on the Internet

When you first graduate from college, one of the most important things you will do is to find a job. Your first job determines your starting salary for future job, helps you to start down a set career path and can open doors to other opportunities. The Internet is one tool that can make a big difference in how well your job search goes. The Internet can aid you in networking and in finding a good job.

Networking is a big factor in finding and getting a good job. The job market is very competitive, and it is much easier to get a job or an interview if you know someone at the company. Networking allows you to build contacts both in person and online that will give you an edge in the job search. Take advantage of any sites that are designed by your Alumni Association, since these are great networking tools.

Networking to Find a Job

• Witi: Explains the importance of networking and gives tips on how to network successfully

• Quint Careers: Offers a step by step guide to networking for the job hunt

• Job-hunt.org: Networking resources by state

• CNN.com: How to find a job during a recession

• WebQuest: How to find a good job

Once you have begun your job search you need to get the word out that you are looking for a job. You can do this with a politely worded email to those people you have networked with or you can do it through social media sites. However all of your contacts will not help you if you are not prepared for the interview and application process. This starts with building a strong resume and writing good cover letters. People who recommend you are putting themselves on the line, don’t let them down.

Basic Steps to Finding a Job

• Ball State University: Offers a step by step guide to getting started in a job search

• Career Planning at About.com: Writing a Great Resume

• Pongo Resume: Offers a resume building tool

• University of North Texas: Offers a guide to writing a great cover letter

Social media is a great tool to spread your contacts and open up the doors of networking. It allows people to spread the word quickly, and a friend of a friend may be willing to recommend you for a job or know of a great place to apply. It is important to use these contacts professionally, but it is also important to maintain a good image with social media.

Social Media Resources

• About.com’s Job Searching: Offers a basic rundown of the social networking sites and how to use them in your search

• Mashable: Offers a video with seven secrets to help you use social networking in your job search

• Gotta Mentor: Offers tips on using social media effectively in your job hunt

• Career Hub: Learn the benefits of social networking in your job search

Building a professional identity is key to getting a job. Many prospective employers are now checking out profiles on social networking sites to see if a candidate would be a good fit or not with the company. Personal sites should reflect your personality and interests, but the image that they put out should be one that shows you can be serious and work hard when needed.

Building a Professional Identity

• iSnare: How to protect your professional identity on social networking sites

• CIO: Discusses the importance of managing your social identity

• OPResume: How to build an online resume and portfolio

• Market Watch: Building an online professional presence

Finally all of the networking will not help unless you are ready for the interview. The interview is your chance to make a good first impression. Be prepared with a portfolio and other information that will give you an edge. Dress professionally, and work to make a personal connection with the interviewer. It is important to stand out in a positive way.