With just about everyone seem to be talking about recession, layoffs and slowdown would-be college graduates are left wondering what the future holds for them. There was a time when a college degree promised a great career and job security but with the recession looming overhead, situations have changed.

Studies have shown that people who graduate during a recession usually start at a lower pay than their counterparts who graduated during better times. They also tend to switch jobs often.

The prospects for those graduating now are not all grey and bleak though. Companies will not stop hiring, they will just be more choosy about whom they hire. As a matter of fact, many companies prefer to hire interns because it is cost effective. There is a lot you can do that will help you get the upper hand while job hunting in a poor economy.

Prepare your resume: A polished resume will go a long way towards creating a good impression. If your college’s career centre has facilities such as resume writing, make good use of it.

Act early: Start job hunting even before you graduate.

Refine your search: Be clear about the kind of job you want. For instance, if you are an MBA graduate, specify whether you want to be involved in sales or marketing or accounts. This will help filter your options.

Do not hesitate to take up temporary jobs: By working as a temp, you can prove your mettle. Besides, you also gain work experience and also get access to internal job listings.

Be prepared for interviews: Practice the skills you would need to ace an interview. You can approach a career counselor to help you with feedback.

Make use of campus facilities: Participate in campus recruitment drives and use networking services to connect with alumni. It pays off to know people who are already placed.

Cut costs: In an economy which went haywire on bad credit, it will be difficult for fresh graduates to get credit. So, if you have to, move in with your parents while you hunt for a job.

Stay optimistic: Remember the recession will not last forever.

Jobs which involve consumer staples thrive in any kind of economy. These include jobs in sectors like healthcare, grocery, beauty aids, home products, utilities, energy and so on.

Although college graduates are hit hard by the recession, they certainly have an advantage over less educated workers. Fresh graduates will be glad to know that in spite of the recession, skills and knowledge are still valued and in demand. All it takes is some strategy, planning, preparation and of course, luck.

Related Links: Recent College Graduates and the Economic Recession | How to Get a Job in Recession | Students Hit First by Recession