DISCLAIMER: This article represents my personal views and not those of my employer or any affiliated organizations.

The World After COVID is WEIRD for New Graduates.

I graduated around the Great Recession. It was a very strange era. Everything our parents had told us: “Reach for the stars!”, “Just work hard and you’ll get ahead!” all appeared to be a massive fallacy. Later on, their generation told us we couldn’t afford to buy a house, because we bought too much avocado toast. This is irrespective of the fact that mortgage companies were the catalyst for the entire Recession.

We made up our own phrases instead. “Be your own star” or “Work smarter, not harder”. Our university career advisors would talk up the job prospects in our fields. They were so institutionalized, or out of touch with the career world. That, or they didn’t even believe themselves. New graduates had to pave our own path.

Some were lucky to find work right before the Recession hit. A fraction of those kept their jobs throughout, stuck in a role for several years. Others lost their first job to a layoff. Does this sound familiar?

You might be wondering how you’ll pay off your student debt, or even how you’ll pay your rent. It’s time to get creative.

Network First

The first thing many did was to throw “Pink Slip Parties“during the Recession. These networking events are held by groups of recently laid-off people (often from the same company) and new graduates who have a shared interest in getting hired. While doing this in-person is a no-no right now: You can do it virtually, within a LinkedIn or Facebook group.

Peers are your best way to get a job. Ask friends for introductions. Volunteer at industry events.

LinkedIn is a great example of an exponential network. You may have 400 connections. However, your public posts actually reach 800+ 2nd or 3rd degree connections. Posting on relevant topics can be a great way to generate interest.

Keep in mind that virtual networking is now the norm. If there’s a way to meet in-person, do it. Summer is coming into full-swing. Sharing a coffee or snack outside is safe and socially distanced.

Remember to pay it forward. How can you help this person first? Don’t be afraid to ask. Even if you’re junior in your career, everyone needs something. You may know of new graduates for other roles. You may be hip to newer software or events than your (likely older) networking contact.

Get personal. Ask about your contact’s interests outside of work. What do they like to eat/drink? What’s the latest movie they saw? Have they seen anything funny on the internet recently?

Use Platforms

Networking platforms can actually be very valuable. Particularly if you’re outside a city or not yet vaccinated. During the crisis, there are several platforms with massive attention:

• LunchClub – This is an invite-only platform that matches you to those with similar interests. Select your calendar availability for the next week, and they’ll set you on a “blind date” with a new networking contact. It’s surprisingly effective. You can sign up using my link here.

• Clubhouse – Are you a member of Clubhouse, the audio-first chat platform? If so, there are tons of groups on the topic. Search for “Careers”, “Jobs”, “Recruit”, and join the conversation. If you strike up a meaningful chat – Don’t stop there! Ask that person for their email or LinkedIn info! If you need an invite to Clubhouse – Please reach out to me and I’ll get you taken care of!

Job Searching

Networking is golden. Let’s not forget about the more conventional job search.

You’re selling you. You need to think about your job search like running your own business. Build a good “client” prospect list. Do your research. Make diligent and regular follow-ups.

LinkedIn Search is one of the best ways to find open jobs. You can use Advanced Filters to look up Job Titles and People.

You can set up “Job Alerts” on LinkedIn for companies or titles you’re looking for. Even if that company’s not hiring right now. See how here. You can also set up Google alerts for specific search terms.

Do NOT Bother with Applicant Tracking Systems

You may perceive a job search as sending out resumes left and right. Throw that idea out the door. This is probably the least efficient job search tactic.

How many hours have you already spent filling out applications?

Applicant Tracking Systems are a waste of time. Just like an automated phone system, your mantra should be “Speak to a person!”

Before the internet, the most successful new graduates found creative ways to get to the hiring manager. There’s stories about showing up to the office reception, and finding their way to the hiring manager’s desk. There’s others about working through phone systems to get to speak to the right person.

Am I suggesting you do this? No. It’s much easier these days. Reach out to recruiters and HR directly on LinkedIn. It’s not as aggressive as a phone call, and not as easily ignored as an email.

LinkedIn connection requests are a very non-intrusive outreach method. It’s not as aggressive as a phone call, or easily ignored as an email. You need only fit a relevant message into -300 words.

Interview Process

I have faith that you know how to interview. In an era where competition is fierce – it matters how new graduates constructively use rejections.

During the interview itself – Are you asking questions that will prepare you for your next one?

• “Are there any other candidates in the process currently?” (You may not get a straight answer)

• What made you choose to interview me vs. other candidates?

• Always end the interview asking “Are there any hesitations on your mind that I can clarify?”

Did you get the job? If you’re rejected, always politely ask if any constructive feedback can be provided. This applies if the rejection reasons seem to be vague.

You can always write a graceful “rejection thank you” for jobs that you really wanted. You’d be surprised at how a touch of grace and gratitude can help. Anything can change with other candidates. You might be rejected, and later get an offer letter when the other candidate doesn’t work out (competing offer, commitment conflicts).

Recommended Reading:

Take a Bridge Job

The recovery could take a while. (See my previous article) If your dream job isn’t shaking out, do something. Take a job that will pay the bills for now. Even if not perfect, is it close or transferrable to what you want to do?

Remote or online jobs can give you time for a side hustle (whether that be your independent work or career job search). There’s plenty available.

You could also apply for AmeriCorps, which, while a year’s commitment, will get you out of your hometown, allow you to see the country, and build your network. The Peace Corps could be an option after reopening.

New graduates change jobs a lot in their 20’s. Many don’t make it to their resumes. Don’t let anyone shame you for it. There’s plenty of professionals (in hiring) that probably left off a transition job from their experience.

Think long term – What opportunities can a bridge job open up for you?

Pursue a Non-Traditional Career

Let’s say you’ve been searching, and not finding anything suitable to your track. Maybe it’s time to create work for yourself. This was common during the Recession. Oftentimes during downturns, there are less people on full-time payroll, and more on freelance or contract roles.

You have the option to create a personal practice or sole proprietorship. This would mean that you work for yourself and contract directly with clients.

Lastly, perhaps starting a business is not too far fetched. There are free Small Business Grant programs available around the country. Many online businesses have low overhead. E-commerce is one of the simplest business models. You just have to find a niche to sell within.

What’s Next?

I wish you the very best of luck in the post-pandemic world. The advice does not stop here. If you have any questions, comments on the article, or requests on what I should publish next –

Connect with me on LinkedIn and mention it in the subject line!

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