(NAPSA)—Effective job hunting skills are not that different from effective skills in the classroom. That’s the advice from career counselors who say many things that helped 2003 graduates excel academically can help them stand out in the job market. Counselors say the advice is important, because despite entering school during one of the best job markets in history, the Class of 2003 now faces one of the toughest markets in more than a decade. That makes sharpening job huntingskills vital. “It’s increasingly important for today’s graduates to be proactive, inventive and thoughtful in their job search. The job seekers who work the hardest will be the ones getting jobs in a tight job market,” says Jeff Taylor, founder and chairman of Monster. Taylor says the following things are needed to find a job: an early start, practiced interview skills and the ever-important polished resum. “It’s essential for this year’s college graduates in particular to have a resum that stands out from the crowd. In addition to presenting an articulate transcript of relevant experience, students should seek other ways to differentiate themselves from fellow applicants,” he explains. For example, Taylor recommends assembling a portfolio illustrating achievements in part-time jobs, internships, class projects, or volunteer experiences. This portfo- fp ea Smart Money—Job hunting skills and study skills rely on manyof the sameabilities. lio demonstrates both professional abilities and personal style during a job interview. Finding employment proved difficult for 2002’s college graduates, as job offers to those just out of college were down sharply from 2001. While the decline in hiring is projected to be less severe this year, employersstill plan to hire fewer grads in 2003 than in 2002—prompting experts to warn this is no time for college seniors to put off their job searches. Are there any bright spots for post-graduation employment? Yes. The insurance, healthcare, engineering, security and government industries are relatively healthy. For additional tips and resources on how recent grads can get their careers off to a solid start, visit www.monstertrak.com, a leading online careers site for college students and alumni.
