Graduation is on the horizon for the class of 2014. While it is an exciting time — no more late night study sessions or buying ramen noodles in bulk (hopefully!) — the post-college job search can be daunting. Employers want to hire people with experience but recent graduates can’t get experience without a job.

Here are five job search tips to help new grads overcome this hurdle:

1. Think big.
   Use LinkedIn, MeetUp and industry association sites to spread the word about your job search. Ask for informational interviews with people who are in positions that you aspire to have one day.
2. Customize your application materials.
   Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job opening you apply for. Obtain the name of the hiring manager so you can personalize your application and make sure that everything you prepare is error-free.




3. Check yourself before you…
   Don’t publicly post anything online that would appear unprofessional to a hiring manager – nearly three-quarters of executives surveyed told us they are likely to search for information about prospective hires online.




4. Get your references in order.
   Choose three to five people who know the value of your abilities and will speak positively of you. Have names and contact information ready to go the day you launch your job search but only provide them if requested.




5. Keep it real.
   Don’t be too starry-eyed when seeking you first post-college gig – don’t oversell or undersell yourself during the application process. Be realistic about securing that first job.