1. Move Back Home

The thought of moving back home if you can’t find a job after college may leave a bad taste in your mouth. For four years, you were probably on your own making your own rules. But rather than create a financial bind for yourself, consider living with mom and dad...temporarily. The fact that you’re living at home can alleviate stress and you can take your time finding the right job.

2. Defer Student Loan Debt

Student loan repayment doesn’t start until 6 to 9 months after graduation. This gives students enough time to secure employment. However, if you can’t find a job after college, notify your student loan lender and asked to defer your payment. If approved, you can defer payments for a few months or years.

3. Look for an Internship

While you wait for full-time employment, contact local businesses and ask about internships or volunteer work. This can fill your days and take your mind off your employment issues, plus working as a volunteer or intern can give you valuable skills, which looks good on resumes and applications. Plus, if you do a good job, the company may consider you for full-time work.

4. Sign up with a Temp Agency

Temp agencies typically have a lot of assignments, which can last for one day or weeks. Although the pay isn’t the greatest, taking temporary job assignments can put extra cash in your pocket. Additionally, some assignments are temp to hire, thus helping you get your foot in the door with local employers.

5. Build Your Online Profile

It’s a given – employers will check your online profile before deciding if you’re a good candidate. With this information, make sure you clean up your Facebook and Twitter page. And if you haven’t already, create a LinkedIn profile and connect with local businesses. Thus, you’ll be the first to know about job openings, and you can apply for jobs directly through online ads.

6. Start Your Own Business

For many graduates, getting a job after college has been harder than expected. You have a choice, either sit back and wait for a job to happen, or create your own opportunity. Granted, starting a business is not cheap. But there are ways to get started with little out-of-pocket cash. Run the business from your home and do your own marketing.

7. Don’t Give up

It’s easy to get discouraged when you’re unable to find employment. Remember, it’s important that you stay positive. This is the only way to stay motivated. A job will come along. Continue to check the job classified ads every day, update your resume, and hit the pavement and visit different employers.

The competition is tough, and for many graduates, it can take as long as six months to find a job. And sometimes, getting a job may require taking a lower salary or accepting a job outside your major. What tips can you offer for finding a job after college?