Getting Your First Job For Dummies
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Don't put your eggs in one basket when looking for your first job. Apply to as many good jobs as you can find! And when you do, make sure you track your applications so you can remember where you've applied and to follow up with the employers.

One easy way to do this is to create a list of places where you've applied along with the following information:

  • Employer name
  • Job title: This is important, particularly if you apply to more than one job at the same organization, or if you're applying for different kinds of jobs at lots of organizations.
  • Job URL: It's important to write down the URL so if you receive a phone screen as the first step in the hiring process, you can quickly reference the job description and talk about how your skills align.
  • Application date: Always follow up with the employer if you haven't heard from them in two weeks or more.
  • How you applied: Keep track of how you applied, whether it was through the employer's website, via a job site, or in person. You may need to reference this information if the employer needs to locate your application.
  • Contact: If you have a contact within the organization who can help ensure your application gets seen, make note of it.
  • Notes: These are more for your benefit, so you can keep track of any special circumstances around any of your applications.
You can put this in a spreadsheet if you like working with Microsoft Excel, or just list it in a Google Doc or even a notebook — whatever works for you! This simple exercise will help you stay on top of where you've applied and ensure you do the necessary follow-up.

About This Article

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About the book author:

Roberto Angulo cofounded AfterCollege, the largest online marketplace in the U.S. where college students and employers can connect. He collaborated with the Obama Administration on the launch of Summer Jobs+, which successfully created more summer opportunities for youth ages 16?24. He is also cofounder of US2020.org, a STEM mentorship program.

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