Degree but No Job? Here’s What You’re Doing Wrong.

You just got your sheepskin and you sent out a ton of resumes. But instead of the phone ringing with calls for interviews, it’s the sound of crickets at sundown. Or maybe you were lucky enough to be called in for a few interviews, but no callbacks, no job. So what’s up? Some clues:

Wrong Resume Strategy. You’re not applying for an internship or part time job at Starbucks. This is the start of a career and employers want to know what you bring to the table. "Don't send out any resumes that simply list your courses, the degree you've earned, and your part-time and summer jobs," says career expert Liz Ryan in an article from the NY Daily News. "Use this opportunity to make a stronger statement about what you want to do with your adult life." And according to Jay Block, author of 101 Best Ways to Land a Job in Troubled Times, younger job seekers often haven't thought about what they have to offer an employer (as opposed to what they want to get from one).

Wrong Internet Strategy. What worked on Facebook to connect with friends and family won’t cut it in your career search and connecting with the right people. As a new grad, you must learn to use today’s online professional networking tools, advises Tory Johnson, CEO of Women For Hire and author of Fired to Hired. These tools aren't "sexy like Facebook or Twitter -- but [they're] the best resource for getting names and building a professional identity." Join Nexxt or LinkedIn and build a professional profile. Join groups in your college and career fields. Post articles and respond to those posted by others in your field. Reach out to fellow group members for information and guidance. Use Facebook wisely by reconnecting with friends who have graduated a year or so ahead of you—and are working. Seek their advice and referrals to hiring managers at their firm.

Wrong Interview Strategy. Schedule several informational interviews to gain insights into your chosen career field and what employers, recruiters and HR managers are looking for. Seek and follow their advice about your resume, your interviewing skills and suggestions for finding a job. Thank these people in writing and keep them abreast of your progress.

Wrong Ramp-Up Strategy. As a college grad, your jobs at Starbucks and Target may not be enough to convince employers you can hit the ground running as a full time salaried employee. So consider an internship, especially if your chosen field calls for one to get up to speed.

The right job search strategy can land you a job, one that gets your career off to a rolling start.

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