With budgets tighter than ever, employers are being very picky about who they hire. According to
Fortune Magazine and cnn.com, just 54% of employers will bring on new graduates this spring. That's down more than 20% from two years ago.
But that doesn't mean you can't find a job, it just means you need to do your homework before that all-important job interview. Here are four ways to increase your chances of getting hired:
1. Show employers you know the basics. Recruiters at Enterprise Rent-A-Car say prospective employees who really stand out want to build a career, climb the ladder quickly and are willing to work hard to get there.
2. Study a prospective employer's web site carefully. Information available varies widely, but some sites contain important clues as to whether you'll get your foot in the door. Make sure you're the right fit for the company
3. Think hard about why you want to work at a certain company. Accepting a job that's a poor fit just to be employed will work against you. Finding a job is hard enough, why try to do it four times in the next five years.
4. Be bold. In addition to the basics, be willing to take risks so you stand out in the crowd.
