1. Consider job descriptions that sound interesting to you, even if you don't have all the qualifications. Reflect on what steps you would need to eventually qualify for such a position. Think about what attracts you to the job (e.g., writing, field work, etc.) and look for those aspects in a position for which you are currently qualified.
   
   
2. Don't go to graduate school because everybody else is doing it, because you need a break from work, or because you don't know what else to do. Go to graduate school because you know the degree will help you get the career you want (refer to #1). If you're not sure, talk to people in your desired field about the degree.
   
   
3. Don't burn bridges. At some point everybody has a difficult boss or coworker. Learn to maintain a courteous, professional relationship. Past supervisors and coworkers may ultimately serve as references for you in future job prospects.
   
   
4. Keep in touch with past supervisors, professors, colleagues, etc. This is really what networking is all about. When you keep the lines of communication open, you can call on them in your professional career without it being awkward. Also, if you're on their radar screen, they'll be more apt to tell you when they see a job opening that could be a good fit for you.
   
   
5. The internet makes it easy to find jobs all over the country, and to apply for them quickly. Usually, all it takes is emailing your resume and a cover letter. But there's a downside — since it's so easy to apply, there may be a high number of applicants. You have to stand out or you'll literally get lost in the shuffle.
   
   To attract attention, it helps to direct your resume to a specific contact at your desired employer. It may not ensure that you get the job, but you'll be more likely to at least make the first cut. How to find a contact? For starters, when you see a job at an organization that you're interested in, ask your former professors or bosses if they know someone at that organization to whom you could send your resume.
   
   
6. Given high numbers of applicants for positions, employers often use a computer program to determine who makes the first cut. In this case, resumes are judged for how many "keywords" they contain. The best way to make sure your resume makes that cut is to tailor it to the job description by using words and phrases that you see in the description.
   
   
7. Develop a niche or an area of expertise. Read all you can about it, stay up-to-date, know the major players in that field. This will give you something in-depth to talk about during interviews.
   
   
8. Sometimes you can create positions. If you are really interested in a company or organization, but they don't have any job openings, request an informational meeting. Given the chance to talk about what you can do for them, they may realize you fill a need they didn't even know they had. And at the very least, they may remember you if a position does open up.
   
   
9. This is just common sense, but when you have an interview — whether informational or for an actual position — make sure you are on time, dress professionally, bring copies of your resume, and send a thank-you note afterwards. Do research on the organization beforehand so you can ask informed questions that show you have put some thought into it.
   
   
10. Try not to stress. If you have lag time between school and career — or even between careers — enjoy it. Relax, or better yet, have a life experience like traveling, volunteering, or doing something that makes you a more multi-dimensional person. Soon enough you'll be working long hours and you'll wish you had more free time.

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