by Sheila Koester

Created on: May 01, 2008

In times of economic uncertainty, such as we are experiencing today, employers have very little leeway in being able to offer suitable entry-level positions. Today, with the ever-rising costs of energy, and the foreclosure of houses due to the sub prime mortgage-lending crisis, the economy and subsequently employer's profitability are lagging. This has created problems in the job market for new college graduates.

How should new college graduates embark on the careers they have studied for four years or more for? Most professional career counselors recommend doing the following:

1. Volunteer for a non-profit organization to gain experience.

2. Obtain an internship, preferably before graduation from college. If this
was not possible then after college is recommended.

3. Network with college professors, peers, and family members.

4. Polish your resume and brush up on interviewing skills.

5. Be open to the possibility that you may have to accept a position that is
lower than your career aspirations, goals, and expectations.

A few years ago, I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems, magna cum laude. In my employment search efforts I have done all of the above career recommendations. Today, I am still searching for a suitable entry-level position in the Information Technology (IT) field. While seeking employment I have been working as a substitute teacher and writing a novel. Neither of the two internships, I completed, nor has the volunteer position I accepted led to a long-term entry-level position in my chosen career field of Information Technology.

What is the problem? In my opinion, I have done everything humanly possible to achieve my career aspirations. I do believe that the struggling economy has had a significant impact on the job market in the Information Technology field. I am waiting for entry-level positions to open up so that I can obtain suitable employment to match the acquired skills I have learned through my college degree.

Yes, employers should offer more opportunities to college graduates entering the workforce. However, I have positioned myself in the employer's shoes and can understand their reasons for being unable to do this at this time. It is, unfortunately, the facts of life that when times are leaner employers become meaner. It is not that employers do not want to create opportunities for new college graduates; it is just that they cannot.

What is the answer? College graduates need to learn patience and perseverance. They need to lower their expectations and be willing to work very hard to achieve their career aspirations. Employers, on their end, should do everything possible to help the new college graduate succeed in the position they were hired. It takes two to tango and two to make an effective employer employee relationship work. Through communication, dedication, and working together will ensure that the future of the work force is successful. Today's college graduates have something to offer to a future employer. The wise employer will see that and open the door to the future.

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