Whether you’re looking forward to the social events, friends and classes, or sadly saying goodbye to sun, sand and water, the end of August means the same thing for most your age…back to school. And while those of you that are still students will be kept busy with homework and papers while you begin the painstaking but necessary process of a job search, what about those of you that have already graduated?

If you are still living at home while you search for a full-time job I’m sure a concern or two has gone through your mind about your financial and personal future. Maybe you are afraid that you’re not saving enough to someday get your own place? Or getting discouraged that you will in fact find a great job (...which you will!)? Regardless, there are a few tips to keep you on track in your job search and keep you sane while you do it.

I love my lists, so today I’m going to share with you a list of advice from Brazen Careerist writer Patricia Hudak who wrote a blog post entitled Make the Most of Your Time at Home After College. In addition to these 6 points, Hudak also stresses saving as a key component to life at home after school. As she points out in the article, saving money on rent isn’t going to increase your bank account if you’re spending on things like entertainment and technology. On to the list:

1. Signup with a temporary agency. You can opt to take work that fits around your job search schedule, and temping is a great way to find a permanent job
2. Substitute teach
3. Have your parents get out the word that you are available for babysitting, house-sitting, or yard-work
4. Tutoring independently or through a company. Post fliers in and near local schools and colleges
5. Become a dog walker for pet owners who don’t have time. Post fliers where people typically walk their dogs
6. Waiting tables or bartending. They are classic post-college jobs, but great communication skill builders
7. Working in retail. May not be the most exciting work, but there are always store discounts to look forward to
8. Giving your opinions. Call companies that do market research and offer to participate in a focus group. They pay cash and typically meet in the evening
9. Work the phones. Sign up with a telemarketing company that pays you on commission for what you sell
10. Freelance writing. If writing has been a strong point of yours or you have a particular area of knowledge, let that work for you. Newspapers and other publications are always looking for good content and it pays well too

Good luck in your search and come visit us again for some more helpful advice!

"bedroom wall" courtesy otakuchick via Flickr Creative Commons