Madison Donahue ’21, staff writer
As companies are moving to remote work, there is an increasing number of employees being laid off; while it is true that economists are predicting a recession, it is important to keep networking and fighting for these positions.
Graduating into the COVID-19 workforce can be intimidating, but with the help of LVC, a strong resume and consistent networking, getting a job during and after the pandemic is possible.
LVC has great resources on campus, specifically the Breen Center for Graduate Sucess. The staff at the Breen Center is there for students, whether one is a first-year student trying to decide on a major or are a senior who is about to enter the workforce.
Brynn Mason, director of the Breen Center for Graduate Success, said the key for seniors is to have multiple backup plans and maintain an open mind.
“There are a lot of jobs out there, but some companies and industries have been significantly impacted by the pandemic,” Mason said. “There is also increased competition for jobs. The seniors graduating now are competing against quite a few factors, including a declining job market and experienced workers who are applying for entry level roles due to job loss.”
There are crucial steps to ensuring LVC students are in the best position possible to secure a job, especially with the competitive job market. Making sure one’s resume and cover letter are specifically tailored to the applied position is extremely important. This shows employers that one’s skillset is a good match, and by addressing them directly, it shows professionalism and interest in their company.
“The resume and cover letter are one part of the process,” Mason said. “For resumes and cover letters, you must customize them for each application.”
Mason also emphasizes that students incorporate industry key words and highlighting skills and accomplishments that make them a good fit for the job throughout the documents.
“Believe me, employers can tell when you use the same generic documents over and over again,” Mason said.
In addition to these tips, Mason said it’s important to network. This includes attending job fairs, going to open houses and networking events and actively connecting with professionals. Putting in the time to update a resume and cover letter is just one part of the process. Aspiring employees also need to do the follow up and stay connected.