6 job tips for new grads entering the workforce.

So, you’ve graduated from college and are ready to enter the workforce. You’re eager to start your career. But with a busy final year in school, graduation and most importantly, uncertainty around companies’ hiring plans, finding a job may not be going as planned. You may be in a holding pattern, having difficulty getting interviews and finding that the competition for jobs for new grads is really fierce.

To help you with your search, here are 6 tips for new grads entering the workforce right now:

be patient

We all want to get a great job out of school, but everything going on politically and economically these days has slowed down this process. Be ready for a delay in the start of your career. You should also be prepared for a slower-than-normal hiring process. Employers are taking it cautiously as they wait for things to play out. Unfortunately for new grads, this may affect the hiring of new people at the moment.

consider temporary jobs

Though your ideal job coming out of school may not be available right now, it doesn’t mean you still can’t get a job. Consider alternative jobs in the interim. Even if a job is outside your area of specialization or industry, it can provide you with invaluable experience getting accustomed to working. You’ll build communication and people skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people and network. You never know, it could lead to the connection you need to kickstart your career. Hiring companies like to see initiative when they fill jobs for new grads. Going out and getting work while you wait for your career job to become available is a good way to show this. Plus, you’ll be making some money.

be ready for remote recruiting

Video job interviews and digital hiring practices are the norm today. If you’re not familiar with video interviews, now is the time to do it. Get comfortable with attending job interviews on video and phone. Be an active professional in your field online. Get involved with other professionals in your industry and make connections. Creating a professional presence on LinkedIn and other social media platforms can help you get your name out there and aid in your job search.

expect competition for jobs for new grads

There are a lot of people currently looking to switch jobs, so competition is fierce. As a new grad, you will need to put in your best effort during the recruiting process. You need to be an effective communicator, perform well during the interview process and show your potential. Take the time now to improve your interview skills. You can never be too prepared for a job interview, especially if you are up against candidates with more experience.

add to your skillset

Now may be a great time to get more professional training and certification while you look for work. Consider taking online courses or programs that can help you in your field. This can help improve your resume and make you a more attractive candidate.

don’t stop looking

Even though it may seem like no companies in your industry are offering jobs for new grads right now, it doesn’t mean you should stop looking. Be diligent in your job search. Continue to make new connections and build your professional network. The opportunities will present themselves.

Companies may be getting more cautious about hiring, but top talent is always in demand. So focus on being the best job candidate possible and making sure you give yourself the greatest chance of landing those all-important interviews. Above all, keep applying and don’t give up.