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2 months, 3 weeks ago

By Cord Cooper Posted 06/14/2010 06:10 PM ET

You're a recent college grad looking for a job — or you've just landed one. Either way, play it smart, say experts.

If seeking a position:

• Know the market. Your niche's strength will determine starting salaries. "Engineering and software development are still top fields for new grads," career coach Nicholas Aretakis, author of "No More Ramen," told IBD. Also, "if you're a marketing or IT person with good Web skills, you're in fairly high demand and can get a decent wage."

Some health care niches, such as pharmaceutical sales and medical devices, also are strong, he said: "Sectors boosted by longevity — with an aging baby boomer market — have opportunities for growth."

With some exceptions in each industry, "the hardest-hit niches are automotive, banking, insurance, construction, teaching/education and many small businesses," he noted. "Unless you're in a high-demand niche or you have top-level experience, be prepared for preset, entry-level salaries. You can perhaps negotiate on the benefits side."

• Consider options. One way to score full-time work? Start as a temporary worker. The economy's engine is still small business, and many small firms are hiring temps instead of full-timers, he notes.

Do well, and you could score the first full-time opening.

• Think it through. "Ask yourself whether you want to enter the job market now or further your education," Aretakis said. "If continuing education is a down-the-road plan — whether business school, a master's or doctorate — you might ride out the economy and get the education now. You'll be prepared when we have a sustained rebound."

A solid approach: Work part time at a promising firm. You'll help fund your education and be well-positioned for a full-time opening.

• Eye it. If you're in your third or fourth year of college, look for internships at top firms, Aretakis says. By the time you graduate, you could segue into a paying job.

Another option: "Look for paid internships," he said. "Niches offering such internships include engineering, information technology and online marketing — especially the social-media sector."

• Own up. Once hired, realize what you don't know — and learn it fast, says career coach Michael Ball, author of "You're Too Smart for This." Forget being a know-it-all; soak up all you can.

• Keep a record. Track work achievements as they occur, says Aretakis. When reviews come up, you won't have to scour notes. "You'll be ready to make your case for a raise or promotion," he said.

• Don't be a job hopper. For managerial slots, employers look for stability. Getting a wide range of experience is good —"perhaps from three firms in 10 years," Aretakis said. "But three jobs in five years makes you look unstable." Employers want solid track records. "They want to see that you've gone through good times and growth and have made it through tough times and challenge."

• Share it. Play for the team, says exec coach Karen Otazo, author of "The Truth About Managing Your Career." Colleges reward stars. Top firms reward team players by making them stars.

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