Question:

I am a college senior graduating in four months. I have an excellent GPA and an impressive amount of work experience. When should I apply for the jobs that I find? Most of them want people who can start immediately. What should I do if the earliest I can start is in five months?

First Answer:

Now is definitely the time to launch your job search. Searching takes far more time than you think, to identify contacts, to get an interview, and once the interviews have begun, to get a job offer. If a company is looking for someone immediately and doesn't bother to implement a logical hiring process, it usually indicates a low-level job with high turnover. There are better jobs available with better companies, but they are neither as obvious nor plentiful as the other kind. Look for quality companies, start the process, and don't worry that anyone will pressure you to drop out of college in your last semester so that you can start work immediately.

-- Tracy Laswell Williams, certified job and career transition coach, accredited resume writer and founder of CAREER-Magic.com

Second Answer:

I would start applying NOW! In my cover letter, I would address the fact that I will be graduating in 5 months and am interested in working for their company. Even if they fill the initial position you applied for, the people who hire in that company will have a chance to look at your resume. It will also give you contacts to follow up with as it gets closer to time to graduate.

It is also important to realize that it is not unusual for companies to take several months to fill "an immediate opening." Also, plan to attend any career fairs your college may have and any career fairs sponsored by other colleges or organizations in your area. A career fair is an excellent way of getting your resume into the hands of perspective employers. They also give you contacts that you can continue to follow up on.

-- Linda Wyatt, Career Center Director, Kansas City Kansas Community College

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