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HBCU Careers Magazine
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When it comes to hiring new or recent college graduates, the most
sought after candidates, generally possess, experience outside of
academics. Candidates that display work experience on their resume
through, internships, volunteering, ordemonstrateactive involvement
in extracurricular activities gain a considerable advantage when
trying to land that coveted first job. Internships are no longer just for
students. Today, it is considered the new entry-level job. Therefore,
employers want to know that you have skills that transcend those
of the traditional academic classroom. Having additional skills and
knowledge that cut across majors are key attributes employers seek;
even for students who have yet to work full-time.
Gaining part-time, temporary or volunteer work experience during your college years is crucial to jump
starting your career. It gives an employer an indication of how well you would work on a team, and if you
canmake decisions and solve problems. Another important skill thatmust be developed is communication.
This includes verbal and written communication, and listening skills. Here’s a tip: Make sure your resume
is professionally written to highlight this asset. Poorly written resumes with grammatical errors gives
employers insight to your ability to communicate with people inside and outside an organization. As a
result, a poorly written resume will negatively impact your chances of getting hired.
Today’s employers are looking for attributes that represent the total package of skills, qualities and
business awareness needed to win them over. Employers want universal skills that can be utilized across
academic disciplines in any job where you are working with others. Furthermore, most employers also
look for leadership or entrepreneurial experience in their potential hires. Launching a side business
online, taking on a leadership role, organizing an event or overseeing a project, and active membership
within a group or organization, are viewed favorably and increases your value to potential employers.
There is a lot of emphasis placed on transferable skills and you will need to demonstrate a high level of
competency in these areas if you want to succeed in the job market.
During the interview process, you will be expected to clearly articulate your accomplishments as part
of your personal brand. Highlighting areas that show initiative is impressive. The key is to communicate
clearly that you have these skills. Employers are looking for a reason to hire you. Use this opportunity
to demonstrate self-confidence, maturity, professionalism and the ability to adapt to a professional or
business environment. Experience gained through an internship or work placement will provide you the
opportunity to acquire and showcase these skills at the application and interview stage.
Make the most of university life and extra-curricular activities to develop your general skills. Plan ahead
to get relevant work and volunteer experience which will give you transferable skills that will make you
work ready. Whatever sector or career path you decide to follow, whether graduate school or a full-time
position, employers will look for evidence of core skills and competencies.
What Employers Really Want from New Grads
By: Simone Davis-Campbell
Executive Director
Hunger4humanity, Inc.
Columbia, MD