By Kiki Johanson
sfcc.kristina.johanson@gmail.com
We all have busy lives, balancing school, family, friends, hobbies, and even kids. Seeking a job can be tough, but, luckily, Spokane offers many resources for college students.
Linea Bruno is an advocate for Workforce Education at SFCC. Workforce Education helps students with job searching, resumes and career navigation.
“I think the main problem with college aged kids trying to get a job is that they don’t have any work experience,” said Bruno. “Having a degree definitely gives you an advantage, but having work experience, even a little, is going to greatly improve your chances.”
According to the National Center for Education Statistics’ website: Between 2000 and 2013, the unemployment rate for individuals without a bachelor’s degree was higher than the rate for their peers with at least a bachelor’s degree.
“Take the time to make a cover letter that appeals to the specific position,” said Bruno. “Highlight your skills that are directly related to that job.”
According to Bruno, things like spelling on a resume and punctuality to interviews are a make-or-break-you factor. One thing interviewers also look at is how often you’re on your phone or generally dawdling around.
“An analogy that I like to use is: If you’re trying out for a basketball team but you have skills in football, it’s going to take a lot for them to assume you know how to throw a basketball,” said Bruno.
According to Bruno, interviewers also look at how you’re dressed. Be dressed modestly and sensibly, but don’t be afraid to act like yourself.
“Being comfortable is going to let you project the confidence that you want,” said Bruno.
Making connections can help you get a job as well.
According to Bruno, by doing informational interviews and exploring the field you’re going into, you’ll make those vital connections that can lead to employment.
Jeff Miller, an advocate for Worksource Spokane, reinforces the idea that college kids should have some kind of experience when going into the workforce.
“Statewide, 56.4% of all jobs require some level of experience,” Miller said. “Go into the community and volunteer.
“Places like churches, Boys and Girls Club, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts. Anything along those lines. Network with some of those chambers.”
The Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington accept men and women over the age of 18 to do volunteer work as board and committee members, troop leaders, and more.
“List your major and grade point average first, then list your work and volunteer history,” said Miller. “A potential employer only looks at a resume for 6-10 seconds.”