When should you spend money during your entry-level job search?

August 3, 8:38 AMEntry Level Careers ExaminerHeather Huhman

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It always amazes me how easily students and new graduates will drop cash on nearly anything—except their job search. Whether it’s your daily latte, a shoe addiction or the need to have the latest iPhone and accessories, you’re finding disposable income somewhere and putting it toward frivolous uses. (I realize this is a vast generalization, but it happens to be true for 90 percent of the young professionals with whom I speak. Sorry to those who are not part of this group!)

There’s a lot of free career advice on the Internet, leading many young people to believe they should never spend money on their job searches. Well, sometimes you get what you pay for—and not everything can be found online.

Advice, when your current method isn’t producing results. “Entry-level candidates should spend money to improve their chances of successfully landing a job when they realize they are not meeting their objectives. If an entry-level candidate has taken advantage of the free services and has been disappointed with the results, then perhaps it's time for a more individualized approach,” said Roberta Chinsky Matuson, president of Human Resource Solutions. “Some people can learn how to search for a job by reading a book. Others need individualized attention—someone who can keep them on track. Job seekers are advised to shop around as the prices of services vary. Referrals to a trusted resource are usually a better bet.”

Professional attire. “Regardless of the industry you hope to work in, having a professional wardrobe is an essential component to not only landing a job but keeping one, as well. Current market conditions have forced most of corporate America back into a conservative mind set, which translates into an overall more conservative wardrobe,” said Jason M. Hill, MBA, PMP, manager partner and senior consultant at Sound Advice Consulting Services. (For specific advice about dressing for success, read my five-part series.)

Thank you card set and stamps. “Every interview and every referral should be followed up with a handwritten thank you note. You would be surprised at what a difference this can make,” said Karen Siwak, executive director of Resume Confidential. “In fact, just this week I heard yet another story about a small business owner who was trying to find a place for a new graduate in his office, even though he hadn’t considered hiring anybody right now. The reason? She sent him a thank you note for his time when she dropped in for a five minute informational interview about his industry.”

Membership fees to professional groups or networking events. “They may even be able to join a professional group as a ‘student’ member at reduced rates. Just as students participate in student organizations while in school, joining a professional group related to the field of interest, provides opportunity to keep up with the field, shows real interest in the field and comes with a built in network of like-minded individuals. Occasionally these groups may hold business card exchanges, breakfast meetings, even social gatherings that may have a registration,” said Lou Lamorte, director of Career Services at La Salle University.

Transportation. “I don’t think entry-level job seekers really understand how important it is to have reliable/dependable transportation,” said Hill. “If you live in an urban environment don’t be cheap; invest in a monthly metro card. Trust me, it will be worth it when you are running to catch the train—so you’re not late for that interview—and you don’t have to stop to buy a ticket.”

“For those who can’t depend on mass transit, make sure you have safe, dependable means of transportation,” he continued. “If you can afford your own car, make sure it is well maintained. If you need to do ride shares, make sure you’ve made arrangements with someone who is dependable and trustworthy.”

Occasional networking lunches. “Offering to buy lunch or a cup of coffee for an alumnus/a or experienced professional for informational interviews is good practice and very much appreciated. As the candidate's personal and professional network expands, there will be times when covering their own meal or treating a friend will happen; so, be prepared with extra cash on the debit card or in your pocket,” said Lamorte. “I'd even recommend opening up a credit card just for the job search. This will help you keep track of your expenses—which, by the way, can be tax deductible.”

So when should you save your money?

“Don’t spend money on printing your résumé on expensive paper. Most hiring managers prefer to receive a résumé via upload or e-mail, so you’ll just be wasting money,” said Emory Mulling, an expert on workplace issues.

Stuart Nachbar, principal at Educated Quest, adds, “Entry-level candidates do not need to overspend on the briefcase. I used to see a lot of college students carry expensive leather bags to interviews, but they could have bought a perfectly nice one for around a hundred bucks at a discount luggage store. But at any price, the bag should look smooth, not appear overstuffed with papers and personal items.”