Tips for Getting a Job Anywhere (3/4)

This post is part three of a four part series on getting the job you want.

11. Be Interesting

I love all of Cal Newport’s books and if you haven’t read them, you should (bonus tip). In How to be a High School Superstar, he talks about students who scored spots at the nation’s top colleges by leading uncluttered and authentic lives. All these students had some sort of interesting side project, business, or cause that set them a part from the masses.

12. Go to conferences

Getting school funding to go to conferences is a win-win. Conferences are great opportunities to make connections in your area of interest, to learn about other companies and fields, and to explore a new city or place. Also, it makes your school look good.

13. Work part-time or volunteer while you’re in school

Try to find an opportunity that gets you experience in your field or in something you want to learn more about. Another option is a job that forces you to build writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills. If all else fails, find a job that gives you down time to work on homework and personal projects (see tip #11).

14. Practice your interview skills

Most schools have a career office where you can do mock interviews. If want something more specialized to your area of interest, you can practice with a career coach. They only way to get better at things is to continually do them.

15. Listen to podcasts

There are so many smart and creative people in this world sharing their knowledge. Listening to podcasts can help your career, make you more interesting (see tip #11 again), or just provide some needed relaxation. My current favorites are Planet Money, The Robcast, Armchair Expert, and Work Life