5 Things That Employers Look For in Recent College Graduates

Many college students need to think of student loan debt amount during their final year, but there's yet another thing that can distract them from the coursework. What do employers look for in recent college graduates?

Employers screen the job applicant's work experience, paying particular attention to the numbers. Most college students don't have that experience, so those who had at least a part-time job get the advantage. It doesn't mean that they get hired immediately. There are five factors that set apart the best candidates from the rest of the pack. Students should keep in mind these factors during their first year, if not prior to admission.

5 Seconds to Grab The Employers' Attention

It only takes five seconds to scan a CV thoroughly. It seems like a short time, but employers are interested in five things. They are looking for:

Grade Point Average (GPA). You should have figured it out during your first year in college, as your high school grades would help in gaining admission into your university of preference. Majority of recruiters are likely to gauge you according to your GPA before calling for an interview. Usually, the average of 3.0 should be good enough. Think of trying not GPA-based approach to your application, if this threshold seems way to high. Another point is that English Department students are required to have a mark that is higher than 3.0. Whether you're a BA English major or not, good communication can land you an interview. You must emphasize on it, and a recommendation from your tutor can give you a fighting chance.

Soft Skills. If you're a leader of a college club, don't hesitate to state it in your CV. You can be counted on. You can inspire others. Don't ever think that you'll get a promotion one year after you're hired for the job. And it will be foolish of you not to do a background check on the company. If you didn't get a chance to be a leader, then you should cite your soft skills. These traits define your team-playing abilities, which any company expects of its employees. You don't have to be a member of any organization, as you can recount your persistence while you beat the deadline for your assignment. You can also cite your sympathetic ear, which can be seen as good listening skill. This is good enough to cover up your lack of work experience. You're not supposed to exaggerate your traits, as you might get caught red-handed during the interview.

Extracurricular activities. This factor will turn you into a well-balanced student. You can't be focused on your studies all the time, as you need to distract yourself now and then. This is one of two things that can keep you doing your best during the long day. Long sleep is another one. Don't be embarrassed to reveal your quirky side, as employers want to know you better. There's no need to add drama, not even certain episodes of your teenage life. You can save it for your partner.

Volunteering. If you have an altruistic side, then you should take advantage of it to get an interview. Skills you learned while helping society can be handy on your first job. You'll never know whom you will meet, but this might give you a career break. And recruiters won't doubt about your lacking of free time.

Honors and awards. You must impress the employers, so you should let them know of your accolades. You don't have to list everything, as you can cite one or two. Awards have to be related to the skills that employers look for in young applicants.

Why You Must Ace Your Job Interview

If employers are impressed with your GPA, honors and awards, extracurricular activities and volunteering experience, then you get a call for an interview. The vast majority of employers decide about accepting your application after your first meeting with them. Some might look back at your academic records if they have second thoughts.

You should prepare for the interview by practicing your responses in front of the mirror. It is not the time to show your quirky side, as it's better to have a professional approach. You can ask your parents, if not your older sibling, for the set of questions. Your tutor can give you a helping hand on this one as well. Make sure that your answers are short and straight to the point. Always keep an eye contact. And don't talk too fast. As far as your attire is concerned, ditch the clothes that you use whenever you attend lectures. You'll get lots of advice on clothing but settle on the one that makes you presentable to employers.