For those graduates who are connected to a community of faith, church mentors, who nurtured and led them throughout their lives, often can, upon graduation from high school and college, provide links to possible jobs in the working world.

Also as part of the networking process, college graduates need to do their homework on the company or organization where they want to work in preparation for significant job interviews that will be conducted not only on the job site, but by telephone and videoconferencing. The first question the job applicant needs to answer is, “Why do you want to work for a particular company or organization?” Before opening your mouth to respond in an interview or even write a letter of introduction to a specific company, know that using pronouns in the first few lines of the introductory statement is unacceptable.

Not only should you avoid repetitive use of pronouns, but also avoid mentioning salary as a reason for seeking employment within the first minutes of the interview, or first few sentences in the letter of introduction. Discuss the facts you know from what you have read and researched about the company. Employers require letters of recommendation for job applicants, but what facts do you know about the company and the reputation of the place where you are seeking employment?

Did you take time to check Internet information about the company? Have you talked to an employee who has some degree of tenure with the organization? How is the company rated in news clippings, the business or political world, or the field? How does the company invest funds, treat employees? Do you know the purpose, values or any ideals of the company? Just because you have credentials in a specific field does not mean that you know the background of the place where you want to work. In other words, do your homework and be prepared to make a good impression.

The second question, “Why should an employer hire you?” provides an opportunity to sell yourself. This is the place to focus on your strengths, commitment, positive characteristics, and qualifications that would make you an asset for the company or organization where you are seeking employment. Remember, the job maze is filled with applicants who have the same qualifications, prestigious degree and charming personality like you: network and do your homework. The job market is a competitive one, but not an impossible one to find your dream job; be tenacious, focused and informed.

Dr. Cecelia A. Robinson is Professor of English, William Jewell College in Liberty, Missouri .

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