Times are tough, many employers are hiring less staff, some employers are cutting back on staff, and you probably have a decent amount of student debt that you need to pay off. Yet when hunting for the perfect first job you should still NOT be cheap.
It’s easy to let the stress of student debt force you to become tight with your money. There is nothing wrong with that. However, there is a huge problem with trying to be cheap while seeking that dream job. Before you rush off the computer to go hunt for that first job, please take a moment to review this list of times where you should not be cheap after graduating from College:
1. Networking. Spend a little money if it will help you meet key people in your industry. Take out a friend or relative that may be beneficial to network with for coffee. If you really want to leave a lasting impression then consider taking them out for dinner. The meeting could be pointless but there is a good chance you will at least leave more informed then you were heading it. As a new College graduate you have so much to learn about the real world that anytime you spend with someone in your field could really help you learn some key inside knowdledge. You don’t want to try networking with someone by showing them you are cheap. A small gesture goes a long way so consider spending some money to do some effective networking.
2. Appearance. Many other personal finance bloggers are going to yell at me for this one but hear me out. Some industries are very cosmetic and whether you want to admit it or not your image could take you a long way. I’m not saying that you should go work out like crazy or anything like that but consider dressing sharply for an interview or any networking events you attend. You don’t need to wear a Hugo Boss suit to an interview but don’t go dressed in your clubbing attire.
3. Job Agencies. This is another area that some people are totally against but they have helped out many 20 somethings in the past. Some employment agencies have a fixed fee while others take a certain percentage off your first few pay checks. The cost may annoy you but if they are helping you get the job then why complain? Make sure you look into the reputation of the agency because some are known for excellent connections and networking while others are the joke of the town.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
These are some good tips. Another important item I would add to that list is spend all of your “endless college time” learning something useful for the workplace. Whether that is writing an excellent business letter, or learning how to build a site for your future employer, get usable skills.
Thanks for the input! I checked out your blog and it is amazing, I can’t believe I never heard of it before.
Thank you for those kind comments – I felt the same way about your blog – great topics!