Dear New Graduate

The recent past has been challenging. Less for some, more for others. For new graduates from post-secondary education institutions in Canada the challenges are greater than in previous years.

I took the time to speak with many new graduates in 2020. Many of the new grads I spoke with had similar concerns and similar advantages. I imparted some advice to them as best I could, and welcomed feedback from others as to what best practice might be.

In short, if you are a new grad this is what I would ask you to think on :

  • The simplest way to beat the competition is to avoid competition. AKA being first.
    You should spend 2 hours a day applying to jobs online, absolutely. Each other new grad that is looking for work is doing the same thing and you're unlikely to be first.
    Reaching out to hiring managers and establishing a connection BEFORE they start hiring, is something to consider. This takes more research than applying to publicly posted jobs BUT you have less competition. And senior managers may be reluctant to speak with you.

  • Try reaching out to someone who has a job you want - they most likely won't help you, but some will. Ask how they got started. Recreate that process exactly and learn from it.

  • Many larger companies have people with titles likes "campus recruiter" or "university recruiter" or "new XXX recruiter". These are the individuals who are tasked with hiring new graduates. If you graduated with a STEM degree, these are the people to target talking to. They are looking for you!
    Many larger companies have people with titles likes "campus recruiter" or "university recruiter" or "new XXX recruiter". These are the individuals who are tasked with hiring new graduates. If you graduated with a STEM degree, these are the people to target talking to. They are looking for you!

  • Relocation is complicated at the best of times. Even more so during pandemics. Focus on the city you live in. Or move to the city you want to work in.

  • Be gentle with yourself. The world of business is driven by the quest for profit and the avoidance of loss. It is not your fault you are having trouble finding a job, but you can do it.