So, you’re done with college but haven’t figured out what would happen next? Don’t feel sorry for yourself for not having any plans yet because every fresh grad out there are likely experiencing the same too. But, before you start doubting your capabilities as a person, why don’t you turn things around by recognizing that all your hard work have finally paid off. Then again, you’re already entering the real world, and it’s not as easy as you’ve imagined it to be. As a recent college graduate, the first thing that you should accomplish is to prepare a comprehensive resume, which you would be sending out to many companies you’ve stumbled upon while searching for fresh graduate jobs. Consider yourself lucky if you’ve been invited for an interview quickly, but don’t get your hopes too high either. Job interviews are always nerve-racking, especially if you’re a fresh grad. Don’t fret, though, as we’ve outlined the things that hiring managers want to hear from fresh grad applicants, so that you can set yourself apart from other hopefuls, jumpstart your career, and even land that dream job of yours.

Say That You're Eager to Learn New Things

Hiring managers know that the only experiences you have are your extra-curricular activities and internship—if ever you’ve had one, which can significantly affect your application. While these are only limited, you may still highlight the projects you’ve done before. Expound on the steps you took to make it a success, the challenges you’ve encountered along the way, as well as how you handled them, up to the steps that were carried out even after its completion. Expect to answer role-playing or scenario-type questions related to your experiences, as these will give the interviewer a better understanding on your capabilities to pick up new skills, how you deal with challenges, and how you receive constructive feedback on your responses. From all these information, the hiring manager may be more open to considering you for the position, upon realizing that you’re willing to learn new things. ExecutiveStyle.com)">

Say Things Beyond Your Resume

Hiring managers usually begin their interviews by asking the applicant to tell something about himself. One common mistake that fresh grads commit is by responding with their educational background and other related information already included in the resume. When asked to describe yourself, you should go beyond your resume by stating facts about your life outside school such as your interests, hobbies, and sports, to name a few. Doing such will allow the interviewer to get to know you better and if you’re a good fit for the company. Every organization has a culture, and by sharing your personality with the hiring manager; he or she will have an idea how accepting you for the position can benefit your personal growth, as well as the company’s success.

Say Your Long-Term Goals

One thing that makes employers reject fresh grads is that they’re only in for the job for the sake of having a job. But, you can prove the hiring manager wrong by sharing your long-term goals—for yourself and with the company. Don’t respond to the question “where do you see yourself 5-10 years from now?” with general answers such as having a family or purchasing your first car or place. Rather, reply with statements like you want to start your career with that position as it will help in your professional growth, and that working in the company for a given period is an excellent opportunity as a fresh grad, and all other things related. Come up with ideal yet realistic goals that would help in your future career path to give an impression that you’re really in for the job. While these are just a few of the tips, keep in mind that each interview is different. Nonetheless, these are still helpful as you come into the real world. Just be confident and make your handshake firm for your interviews to go as smooth as possible.

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