By Connor Boyd

BLOOMINGTON – A new batch of college graduates is on the job market.

Lisa Hinkley, associate Vice President for Career and Professional Development at Lake Forest College, talked about who is hiring.

“Sometimes it’s that employer that regularly hires recent grads that is going to be the employer that the student ends up with,” said Hinkley. “But ultimately, everyone in a business or non-profit organization is looking for that person who can help them achieve their goal, help them achieve their mission.”

The job prospects for new graduates is the best it’s been in 15 years. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers are expected to boost hiring by over eight percent. Hinkley said it’s about the right fit.

“Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, its not a question of who has strengths and who has weaknesses”, said Hinkley. “It’s a matter of, ‘Can you find an employer that’s going to bring out more of your best qualities than more of your worst qualities?”

Hinkley said that even if graduates do not know what job they want, it is important for he or she to learn about the industry they are interested in.

“Every situation is a little different, a little bit unique; and that’s why it’s important that a student meets with a career advisor and really understand how their strengths are going to match what an employer is looking for,” added Hinkley.

Hinkley suggested the best way to find a job is applying to the small and mid-sized companies with more opportunities.

Connor Boyd can be reached at [email protected].