Ask the Hiring Manager
QUESTION:
How does the fact that employers are looking to fill a position ASAP go with the fact that I will graduate only in 4 months from now and won't be able to start working until then? I'm primarily looking at the "sending out resumes" routine (yes, I know I should've been doing other things also but I haven't). What is the situation with this issue in the "real world"?
From: Semyon Galperin, Senior, San Francisco State University
ANSWER FROM BRIAN KRUEGER:
Hi Semyon -
Good question. Most (but not all) entry level hiring is done with the intention that the student (soon-to-be-graduate) will not be available until graduation several months away. However, there are also job openings which are truly available right now (usually due to either turnover or rapid growth/new position).
Two pieces of advice:
- Do NOT even think about leaving college just a few months before graduation just to accept a job which is available now. It's not worth it.
- Don't assume that an Internet job posting which says the job opening is available now means that they won't wait until you graduate. First of all, it may be a simple error in how the job posting is listed. But even if it is available ASAP, if you're the right person, graduation is only 4 months away. Many positions take 2 months to fill anyway, so if you're the right fit, it would only mean waiting 2 more months for you. If they're not willing to wait, continue your search. Don't give in to the temptation.
P.S. You already know this, but yes, you need to do more than just send out your resume. You need to proactively manage your job search, which includes personal direct contact and follow-up.
