This article is part of a new series. The tough economic times are a concern for everyone, but the job market can be especially intimidating for inexperienced college students. That’s why the Career Services Network asked students what their top concerns were and then directed the questions to career experts both within and outside of the network. Each article has a student question with three expert answers. Read on for the third installment.

Jim Jansen: Recent Grad vs. ExperienceStudent Question:

“How do you sell the ‘I’m just out of school’ thing when there are other people on the job market who have your same skill set but more experience?”

Jim Jansen, Professional Writing & Mandarin Chinese, Class of 2009

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Expert Answers:

theda rudd1) Identify transferable skills

“As a new college graduate with a strong background of volunteering, great internship experiences, and innovative technology skills, you will be able to tout your advantages. Your relevant experiences will give you the competitive edge. Bringing fresh, new ideas to a company is a competitive advantage; use this skill in your interview to add value as a candidate.

The secret is to identify your transferable skills. This requires you to first fully understand the requirements of the position, as well as the scope of the business. Once you understand these elements of the organization, review your recent experiences on your resume for a match that demonstrates your skills in these essential areas. Did you volunteer for a non-profit that allowed you to develop a great website? Did you play a key role in managing an event for your student organization that was a roaring success?

Provide the interviewer with concrete evidence of your successes. You can do this by quantifying the results, showing samples of your work, or by presenting press releases of the events and activities that support your contributions. The most important skill is your ability to articulate your advantages and convey this to the interviewer in a persuasive manner.”

Theda Rudd; Associate Director, Career Services @ the Stadium; ruddt@csp.msu.edu

2) More than work experience

brett funk

“Experience is only one qualification employers seek, and it is much broader than work experience. Experience also refers to the ability to effectively solve problems, manage projects, lead teams, drive process improvements, influence others, and much more. The key is to effectively market these transferable skills gained from classroom projects, internships, student organizations, and other experiences on your resume. In other words, relate what you have done to the company and role you are seeking. Being more successful at networking is another way to gain an advantage.”

Brent Funk (MSU ‘06, ‘08); Lead Recruiter, Leadership Development Programs; Whirlpool Corporation


Karin Hanson3) Passion and persistence

“Passion and persistence will take you much further in a job search than experience. Experience could potentially work against you as it could pigeon hole you into a specific market within your field, or even cause an employer to feel you are set in your ways and aren’t as moldable as a recent college graduate

1. Passion. If two people are competing for a job and one has more experience but the other demonstrates more passion for the field and employer, the person with passion will receive the offer, hands down. Employers know that passion is not merely a skill you can train an employee on but it is something that will bring forth hard work, company dedication and loyalty and new ideas; all of the qualities any organization can benefit from. This is even more important in a challenging job market as employers need to be confident that when they do hire someone, that individual will continue to move their organization forward even when times are tough.

Having a positive attitude goes hand in hand with passion, regardless of your level of experience. I have met individuals that have wonderful experience but are having a tough time finding a job. It is clear that their attitude, not their experience, is holding them back. Employers want to see that you will remain upbeat even when budgets are cut.

2. Persistence. When you’re applying for a job, know the company from the inside-out rather than from the outside-in. Make use of social networks (LinkedIn, professors, professional organizations) and do your research. Ask for informational interviews and job shadows using MSU alumni throughout the globe (there are over 400,000!) and demonstrate that you have the perseverance to do what it takes to land the job. Follow up after each interaction- it makes a difference. Data indicates that only a third of applicants actually send thank yous! Use your job search to show the potential employer you will be as persistent on the job as you are while trying to land it!”

Karin Hanson; Field Career Consultant in the College of Communication Arts & Sciences; hanson39@csp.msu.edu

Take action: Do you have a question about how the economy affects your job search? Email it to aldric39@msu.edu with “Career Economy Question” as the subject. If you have a specific, individual question, set up an appointment with a career advisor.

Kelley Bishop,executive director of Career Services, was recently interviewed on the MSU Today show on Impact Radio. The interview focused on the economy and its affects on the job market. Click here for a summary and a link to the podcast.

**Today’s Job Search Archives**