How to Land a Job Before you Graduate

Insights from a Senior Business Student with Four Job Offers

Senior finance student Tyler Boruff, 22, plans to graduate this spring, and he already has a great job lined up. Actually, he had four job offers lined up by the beginning of 2015, and selecting the best one was the hard part. Starting July 17, he will be an associate production manager for Aramark in Dallas, Tex. as he begins in thecompany’s management training program called Accelerate to Leadership, or A2L.

“The College of Business was there for me all the way and gave me a lot of valuable guidance throughout my job search, from beginning to end,” Tyler said.

So what are Tyler’s secrets to landing a good job?

1. Use your network
Tyler says he began by talking with friends who had already graduated, older students he knows through his role as president of the ECU Scuba Club, contacts he met through the dive shop where he works, and even family members like his older sister, Shelby Boruff (MGMT ’12, MBA ’13), who now works with Target Corporation (where one of his job offers originated).

“I also got to know the College of Business’ Career Center team and learned how to use the online CareerNet system, plus I spent extra time planning with faculty members like Prof. T.D. Gribble and Associate Dean Dr. Jim Westmoreland,” Tyler explained. “I tried to get the most out of my BUSI 3200 assignments and guest speakers, too, since the class focuses on teaching students how to become business professionals.”

2. Prepare for the ECU Career Fair
Tyler says he can’t say enough about the ECU Career Fair (the spring fair is March 19th – mark your calendar!) Do your homework beforehand, and you might be surprised at the opportunities that surface.

Tyler said, “Research the companies and people who plan to attend, and narrow down the firms that interest you most. Reach out to potential employers before the fair, and let them know about your interest (and send them your resume and portfolio in advance). Try to understand what each company is looking for – since each recruiter wants something different – and position yourself for that job.  Also, have an open mind at the Career Fair and look at companies that may not be on your list.”

3. Edit Your Resume
Tyler says his resume improved dramatically as he went through the editing process and gathered input. In the end, he had a solid resume that put his best foot forward and advanced him to the next round.

4. Practice your Interviews
Practice with a trusted professor. Practice through the Career Center. Practice in the mirror. Know what you are going to say and how you’re going to say it. Also, be ready with a firm handshake and elevator pitch. Even if you think you feel comfortable talking in front of others, like Tyler does as a scuba instructor, preparing will help you feel ready and confident.

5. Dress Professionally
For guys, that means you must wear a suit and tie. Be clean shaven and get a haircut. Wear a sport jacket. You may need to spend a little money, but your professional image is well worth it. (Tyler says he coupon shopped for his suit and found one at Belk’s.)

6. Take Advantage of Opportunities to Become Well Rounded
Grades are very important, but what you choose to pursue outside of the classroom is just as important. Find something extra-curricular that sparks your interest. Seize opportunities to demonstrate leadership. Consider studying abroad.

“I think studying abroad is something every student should do if they can,” Tyler said. “I traveled to China through the College of Business Study Abroad Program in summer 2014, and it was a life changing experience.”

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