How to Get a Job After you Graduate

Did you know the average student spends over 40 hours applying for jobs before landing their first position? That's an entire workweek spent just searching! But your job hunt doesn’t have to be this exhausting. With smart strategies and tools like Prep AI (think Tinder, but for jobs—just swipe to apply!), you can land a job faster and with less stress.

Finding the right job takes more than just great tools—it requires a strategic approach and proper preparation. This guide will help you streamline your search and maximize your chances of success.

Get Your Job Search Basics Ready

Start by preparing your essential documents and online presence:

• Updated resume showcasing academic achievements and relevant experiences.

• Tailored cover letter template ready to customize.

• Professional email address & voicemail greeting.

• Reference list of contacts who can vouch for you.

Your online presence matters—37% of employers screen candidates on social media, and 34% have rejected applicants based on their profiles. A strong LinkedIn profile is crucial, as 9 out of 10 recruiters use it to find candidates. Profiles with a professional photo get 21x more views, and 75% of hiring managers review LinkedIn before making hiring decisions.

While Prep AI lets you apply for 100+ jobs in minutes, ensure your resume and LinkedIn are polished. Clean up social media, remove questionable content, and showcase achievements through writing samples or design work.

Make Time for Your Job Search

On average, job seekers take six months to find employment. To stay on track, treat your job search like a college course:

• Dedicate at least three hours a week to job applications.

• Spend 30 minutes daily applying for jobs.

• Break tasks into small steps and set weekly goals.

• Use Google Calendar to track deadlines.

Frequent job board checks help you find openings early. Platforms like Handshake connect you with top employers, while Prep AI speeds up applications with its swipe-to-apply feature.

Maximize Career Fairs

Career fairs are a great way to connect with employers. Research participating companies beforehand and come prepared:

• Bring 20-40 copies of your resume.

• Carry business cards with your contact info.

• Prepare a 30-second elevator pitch to introduce yourself.

• Dress professionally & bring a backup outfit.

Engage recruiters with thoughtful questions about company culture. Many students rely on Prep AI to apply online, but in-person networking requires a different strategy—make eye contact, take notes, and collect business cards.

Follow up within 24 hours with a personalized thank-you email. Reference specific points from your conversation and reiterate your interest. If directed to apply online, do so promptly—many employers use databases to track potential hires.

To keep momentum, connect with recruiters on LinkedIn. Ensure your profile aligns with what you discussed at the fair. While immediate job offers are rare, career fairs build valuable professional connections that can lead to future opportunities.

Conclusion

Landing your first job requires a mix of traditional strategies and modern solutions. Keep your professional documents ready, build a strong online presence, and make meaningful connections at career fairs. Set aside dedicated time for applications, prepare thoroughly, and follow up with potential employers.

Most importantly, leverage smart tools like Prep AI to simplify the process—apply for 100+ jobs in under five minutes with a simple swipe. The job search can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you’ll land the perfect position. Take the first step today and start applying smarter!