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AT ISSUE: In the bleak job market, those graduating soon need to make themselves marketable

Employers are expected to hire about 7 percent fewer 2010 graduates than 2009 graduates, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.

That's not too encouraging considering less than a fifth of 2009 graduates had offers when they finished school. But, there is a career fair in Worthen Arena today. Those are great resources for anyone looking for a job. It's a good way to make a lasting first impression and stimulate interest among potential employers.

There are endless ways to make a lasting impression on potential employers you meet. Marketability is all about standing out so people remember you. If you want to be the most memorable job seeker at the career fair try:

  • being cocky and dismissive. "Oh, a non-profit that helps cancer patients. Do you keep your cape in your briefcase?" Companies love this sort of talk from prospects. Having the glowing confidence to write off any type of work as beneath you will definitely raise some eyebrows. It shows them you're ready to take on the tough projects. They'll be so excited about getting your résumé they'll probably just pack up and leave right away to tell the boss about you.

  • flaunting your ability to bend or even shatter the rules to get the job done. Employers need to know that you'll go the extra mile. SEC regulations? What is this, the 1920s? Ethics are for old people and recent graduates who don't have jobs.

  • daring company representatives not to hire you. How couldn't they hire you? You're gracing them with your presence when you could have an executive position lined up by now. They're lucky to be talking to you.

  • pretending to be important. The "Do you know who my dad is?" line always works. This will instill a sense of curiosity - and borderline fear - in your potential employers. "Who's your dad?" they'll think to themselves. Maybe your dad's prominence could help the company; donations and whatnot.

  • lying on your résumé. They won't actually call former President Ronald Reagan for a reference; they couldn't if they wanted to. For all they know you did do your undergrad at Harvard and are here for a Mensa study. You have to set yourself apart from the competition. Your semester abroad in Australia won't cut it anymore.

    • These are timeless strategies endorsed by many of the country's leaders, including President Barack Obama, Microsoft founder Bill Gates and actor Ted Danson (citation needed).

    Put yourself ahead of the curve. The sooner you get your name out there, the sooner that real-person paycheck comes.


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