Preparing for the Job Hunt: 3 Things College Seniors Should Do This Summer

As summer approaches, the job search intensifies for those graduating the following year.

According to a 2022 national survey, work-life balance, creative opportunity, and upward mobility are the top priorities for Gen Z adults when searching for work.

To secure the job you desire amidst the increasing competition from Gen Z, it may be necessary to put in extra effort. Fortunately, CNBC Make It has gathered valuable insights from experts and recruiters on how to succeed in your career.

To get a head start on job hunting, consider these three actions regardless of whether you're in a summer internship, taking classes, or simply relaxing.

1.Network with people in your desired industry

You can still network with individuals in your desired industry even if you're not ready for a full-time job until spring.

While networking can be professional, it doesn't have to be all business, Byron Slosar, a career expert and CEO of HelloHive, a career platform, advised.

Slosar advised that instead of focusing solely on professional experiences, it's important to consider all aspects of life when networking. By being open about personal experiences, individuals can establish a genuine connection that may eventually lead to opportunities in their desired industry.

Slosar stated that although experiences such as driving for Uber Eats, working part-time in a restaurant, being a first-generation college student, or a student-athlete may have developed you professionally, they may not be included on your resume.

Keita Williams, the founder of Success Bully, is truly inspiring and has made a significant impact in the lives of many individuals.

Rewritten: Can you please provide me with more information about this topic?

""Being flattered or appreciated is something most people enjoy," Williams stated."

2. Tighten your resume

It's always a good idea to review your resume, even if you've already made changes in the past. According to Stefanie Fackrell, a former recruiter for Google and Nvidia, resumes should be a concise list of your accomplishments, combined with job duties.

Fackrell advised focusing on achievements and development rather than following a routine at work or internship.

Fackrell advised applicants to "keep it simple" and eliminate the use of colors and images.

3. Sharpen your interview skills

As graduation nears, you may find yourself applying for multiple roles and facing numerous interviews. The expectation to make a positive first impression can be overwhelming, but the more you practice, the more confident you'll become in your communication skills, according to LinkedIn career expert Andrew McCaskill.

"Rehearsing talking points with a mentor, friend, or old co-worker can help interviewers feel confident and comfortable talking about themselves, he said."

While an interview may seem like a casual conversation, the ultimate goal is to convince a recruiter that you are the ideal candidate for the job you are seeking. Despite the urge to elaborate on your skills and background, it is essential to keep it concise, according to Simon Taylor, a former Disney recruiter and HR executive.

To save recruiters' time, Taylor advised preparing concise answers that hint at your experiences, allowing them to delve deeper if desired.

"Let them explore other related topics by providing them with hints, and they will uncover more information," he suggested.

The ideal closing pitch for an applicant should demonstrate both enthusiasm and confidence, according to McCaskill.

Here's the golden sentence, according to McCaskill:

"I strongly believe that my skills and experiences align perfectly with this job, and I am confident that I could make a significant positive impact on the team. Allow me to explain..."

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