If you are a college graduate and want to find a job you want, here are some things to keep in mind, and they are taken from first hand personal experience.

First, never depend or wait on anyone who will say they will help you get a job. This goes for family,friends, and even job counselors in or out of vocational rehabilitation offices. Family and friends, well meaning as they may be, often make promises and then get distracted by their lives. Job counselors are dealing with many more thsn just you, and do not care when or even if you get a job. They often go through a lot of unnecessary red tape and delays, delays you cannot afford in the job search.

Rather listen politely, thank them, follow instructions if any, and go on your merry way. Even if you are taken to meet someone in your field, do not expect them to help you do anything. They often do not want to be put in that position.

Second, get a part time job, even in a store or factory, and do a very good job at it. You need positive references for your resume and confidence in a job well done.

While working part time, get specialized training in a field you would like to work in, or volunteer in your desired field. This gives you the training and experience you need.

Work on your resume and cover letter. Look at career books in the library and use a computer to get it perfect. Learn computer and Internet skills and keep them updated. If you cannot type, there is voice recognition software. You will need these skills in many other jobs. List these skills on your resume.

Do not depend on the ADA to get or keep you a job. Apply for jobs like any other candidate and watch your performance. You do not need special circumstances to apply for a job. The applications remain the same for all. Learn interview skills and practice them.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Kooper.
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