The catch-22 of getting a job after college

As graduation approaches, you can feel the pressure of finding a job as your parents are in one ear nagging you about your resume, while your fellow senioritis-stricken friends are in the other telling you to skip class and meet them at the bar. In this economy, its hard enough finding anyone who's hiring anyway.

When you do find time to search the web for potential employers, you come across so many listings requiring 5+ years of experience, 2-3 years of experience....however many years of experience, that you don't have. So here is the Catch-22: How do you gain the experience needed to get a job when all jobs require experience to get hired in the first place?

Some industries will hire based on the fact that you earned a degree in that specific field (like scientists and engineers). But that isn't the case for those liberal arts majors, like public relations, marketing, journalism, etc. Yes, there is the possibility of having internship experience. But what if you don't? Not everyone has had the means or opportunities for internships before they graduate. So what do you do?

What I've learned

Network: Not always, but a LOT of the time, it's all about who you know. So pull out all the stops! Ask your parents, aunts, uncles, neighbors, whoever, if they know anyone in your field of interest. The point here is not to ask for a job, but to get your foot in the door by expanding who you know. Just meet these people for advice, tips, how they got started, etc. Most likely they will not offer you a job, but it's more likely they'll remember you when something does come up. They may know someone who knows someone. Just get yourself out there; it is all about NETWORKING.

I received my very first job after graduating through a random introduction, to the owner of a public relations firm, who just happened to be hiring.

Volunteer: While you search for a job, find somewhere to volunteer part time. Find somewhere locally that could use your help or services. Think of it as giving your time in exchange for experience. You may be surprised at where you can find these opportunities.

While job searching (for something in public relations), I was introduced to a woman working for the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis. She said they could use my help with their pr. I worked with her 3-4 days a week and attended pr meetings. I gained some good experience to include on my resume!

Bring something else to the table: If you don't have practical experience through internships or previous jobs, really dig deep and emphasize what you have that could benefit you for a given position or company. What are your life experiences? Did you study abroad? Overcome a hardship that made you stronger somehow? Find a way to apply what you've learned in school (and in life) to the job you're applying for. What you've learned may even be a certain mentality or work ethic. Think outside the box.

Instead of dwelling on the fact that I had no previous experience, my cover letters highlighted the fact that I had a student mentality, ready to learn any and everything in the industry. I was a fresh new mind out of college, willing to give my all and work hard in the position.

Job Search: Use multiple job search engines throughout your job search. Google specific search engines relating to your field (i.e. www.marketinghire.com, listed below).

You must be careful, though, when applying to jobs posted online. The company should have a website. I consider the posting a little shady if it doesn't. Copy and past the company name into Google. If it is mentioned on any scam reports, like ripoffreport.com, I move on. Legitimate job posts should also include specific requirements/responsibilities that come with the position. Avoid vague job descriptions.

Also avoid job posts that say "No Experience Necessary," "All training provided," and "100% promote from within." I know these things sounds appealing, but marketing and promotions companies use that to draw in anybody. They meet with most, if not all people that apply, and start you out "promoting" via door to door sales (I know this from personal experience). If that's what you want to get into, then that may be perfect for you. But if not, don't say you weren't warned!

To sum it up:

I feel your pain and frustration when it comes to finding a job after college. But they are out there! Be creative in gaining experience, and marketing yourself to employers. Use the people around you as resources. I have found that, in general, people do want to help you out.