With your final semester slowly coming to an end, it’s time to start thinking about your job search (if you haven’t already). Finding a job may seem stressful but with a little preparation and a stellar resume, you can kick-start your job search. Here are 5 tips on how to find some great opportunities post-graduation.

Update your LinkedIn Profile.

Your LinkedIn profile is a snapshot of your previous work experiences, and the platform a potential employer will look at first. Prior to graduating, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Include all of your past internship and work experience. If possible, try to have professors and past employers endorse your skills. This lets an employer know that you possess the skills needed to excel at a new job. If you don’t already have a professional headshot, make it a priority to get one. A nice professional photo, up-to-date contact information, and a neat resume attached to your profile are all important for making you stand out to a potential employer.

Attend Career Fairs and Events

Many colleges and universities offer career fairs and networking events throughout the year. These events offer a chance to network and meet recruiters who are looking to hire recent grads. The online job board Handshake offers a series of virtual fairs as well, so make sure to stay on top of what they have to offer. You can easily register for Career Fairs online, and all you need is an up-to-date resume to handout or email to potential employers while attending.

Make Sure Your Resume is Up to Date

Look back on everything you have accomplished over your time at school. What are some hard and soft skills you have acquired and how do they relate to the positions you are applying for? Research specific jobs you are interested in and compare how your skills line up. As you update your resume, make sure to highlight any specific skills mentioned in the job posting. Make sure to remove any activities or high school jobs that aren’t relevant to your potential career. If you need help creating a resume, try a virtual resume workshop or reach out to an advisor for help.

Start Networking

Networking is more than just making small talk and drinking warm chardonnay. It is a key factor in finding a job, especially for upcoming graduates. Fortunately, there are networking opportunities everywhere. Job fairs, special events, clubs and even returning alumni can all be the key person that helps you find your career after graduation. You can even network on LinkedIn by messaging alumni at companies you’re interested in. Having something like an alma mater or a sorority or fraternity in common is a great segue into asking about a potential job opportunity.

Apply for Unadvertised Jobs

Not all jobs are advertised, so if you have a dream company in mind, try reaching out to them first. Send in a resume and cover letter letting the company know you’re interested in an entry-level position. If you don’t hear back after 5-7 business days, feel free to follow up reiterating your interest. Even if the company ends up not having any current openings, they now have your resume and will keep you in mind once a position opens up. It’s always good to be on someone’s radar ahead of time.

InterSolutions is always looking to hire motivated individuals. The multifamily industry offers a multitude of growth opportunities so if you’re an upcoming graduate consider entering property management! To view, all of our current openings visit jobs.intersolutions.com.