Finding a “real job” is hard work, and a lot of what goes into it are things I never learned in college.  This is my first attempt on this path, and it has definitely been an adventure and a learning experience.  One of the most important things I’ve learned so far is how important research is – not only researching what the company does but also who runs it.  In this tough job market, you have to attack from as many sides as possible, and you probably need to have a connection of some kind just to get an interview.  If you don’t think you know someone who “knows someone,” fear not!  You might just not be using all of the resources available to you.  One of the most important, and one which you might be overlooking, is your alma mater’s alumni network.  While applying to a job at a nonprofit, I stumbled upon part-time work here at Dear Bev.  I was doing some simple internet research on the board of said institution, and I discovered that Ms. Weinstein went to NYU, from which I recently graduated, and worked in the cable industry for many years, like my mother.  I decided to contact her through NYU’s alumni network, playing up our connections and offering to take her out for coffee.  At first, I felt hesitant.  Does this qualify as stalking? I wondered.  Earlier in my job-hunting process, I probably would have been too timid to ask for help from someone I had never even met before. However, a few months into this journey, I feel that I am starting to get the hang of networking, and after asking some trusted mentors for advice, I had the confidence that it was worth a try and an appropriate move.  In this case, Bev was impressed by my initiative and research skills and very kindly decided to put in a good word for me and forward my resume to my potential employers.  She also saw that I am doing social media work at my current internship and decided to give me some part-time work here at Dear Bev.  A happy ending!

Remember, making connections is half the battle and you should never be afraid to reach out, even if it seems like a long shot.  As long as you are polite, sincere and well-informed, the worst that could happen is that the person just won’t get back to you.  At best, your potential contact can help you get an interview, a job or a new opportunity that you never anticipated.

By Cat Tassini