College graduates should keep ties with college career centers

Many recent college graduates feel stuck in a state of limbo. They're not returning to the classroom, but they haven't yet secured a job because of the tough employment market. If you're in this situation, keep your head up and focus on enhancing your marketability. Continue to network with other professionals and maintain ties to your college career center. You also might explore temporary work, which will allow you to earn an income while gaining new skills and contacts.

If you have limited work experience, use your resume or cover letter to discuss how your years of schooling can help you succeed on the job. At the very least, don't devalue your education, as these candidates did:

"EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree in film. Not the wisest investment I've made in my life, but I had four fun years."

Well, as long as you had a good time ...

"SKILLS: The one skill I really cultivated during my time in the MBA program is the ability to produce magnificent financial models and pristine reports, however useless they may be. I can produce countless numbers of these to drown top management with."

We can think of better ways to convince someone to hire you.

Rather than highlighting his strengths, this job seeker focused on his needs and shortcomings:

COVER LETTER: "I'm a recent graduate seeking a regular schedule. This is where YOU come into play! I'm not a slacker, but without a regular schedule, I have succumbed to a lax lifestyle."

Should we schedule your interview for the afternoon so you can sleep in?

Finally, regardless of their qualifications, applicants who display poor etiquette or make demands aren't looked upon favorably.

COVER LETTER: "I'm a recent college grad. Don't offer me some sort of stipend-based, overworked intern position. Been there, done that."

We'll be happy to comply.

COVER LETTER: "I will not waste my time with companies that do group interviews. Also, you will not be interviewing me; I will be interviewing you."

You're right. We won't be interviewing you.

For more Resumania, and to submit samples you've come across, visit www.resumania.com. Keep the Resumania coming. Examples can be sent to Resumania, c/o Robert Half International, 2884 Sand Hill Road, Suite 200, Menlo Park, Calif., 94025, or faxed to 650-234-6998.