One of the lessons I learned from not being hired is the fact that you were not hired because nobody is there to back you up. This does not mean that you get hired because you have somebody from the inside who would do some magic so that you can get the work. Don’t get me wrong. It is all about having somebody to oriented you well on what this work is all about or what kind of worker they are looking for.  Having someone who can serve as a secondary reference. A reference that you may not write in your resume but the hiring personnel will ask if she/he happens to know you.
As early as college, build your network.

I keep a list of people on my cell phone, my email and my directory book that I greet or visit from time to time.  I believe that you have your version too.  These people are your garden of referral.  It is most likely that these same people works on a company that needs a person that fits your capabilities.  They do not have to bring you or your resume. All you need is the direction to the place and the person to look for.

Where else is the heart of your network but in school.  That is where I get my first work.  I went to ask our school registrar if he knew of a school where I can apply to teach.  And he said, two philosophy teachers are leaving next semester.  Go ask the dean if you can take their place.

Of course, you do not have to work or apply in the school where you graduated.  But most schools have a well built network and maybe a listing of companies that are looking for fresh graduates.  {You will know why when you get the salary offer.}

You can approach your guidance officer about it. If they do not have a list of hiring companies, at least they can help you find one.
Begin your 100 list from their referrals.

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