Getting fresh out of university with a cool job offer in your hands is the dream of every fresh graduate. But what should you do if you are not one of the lucky few who have it all right?
Of course, you can always post your CV in all sorts of online job platforms and wait for someone to call you up. But this is not the only way to go. And certainly not the most efficient way to get your first post-graduation job. Here are some tips and tricks.
- Be in the right mood
- Check your social media accounts
- Get recommendations
- Ask around
- Prepare for the interview
Finding a job is naturally important, but your comfort and peace of mind is way more crucial. If you panic, you may just as well accept the first offer you get, even if it is not the best option for you. And your task is to find a career you will enjoy. You should be eager and enthusiastic to find the best match for your knowledge and skills. Remember, your mood can be traced in your CV and when you talk to the HR or the manager interviewing you. Be confident, even if you don’t have any professional experience. After all, everyone was a newbie at one point!
It is no longer a secret that HRs spend a lot of time researching job candidates. The first place where they will try to find is on social media. So, if you want to make a good first impression, make sure to delete any photos, posts, and comments that may present you in a negative light. Get your privacy settings right – hide any photos from parties, beach holidays, or any other videos or images that may discredit you in the eyes of your future employer. Do it before you send your CV.
If you haven’t done this yet, go to your college or university professors and ask for some positive recommendations. It would be great if they are signed by the dean, the head of department or their deputies. Don’t forget to have them stamped by the university to make the document look more official. Another great thing you can do is get recommendations from NGOs, student councils or volunteering organizations, if you have experience in such.
It is always a good idea to start looking for a job among your close connections. Maybe one of your friends, relatives or people you know is looking for young specialists? Send them messages that you are looking for a job. Tell them what you want to do, what career you are pursuing. Even if people in your close circle don’t have any vacancies at the moment, they can recommend you to one of their connections. This is not an option to be neglected. Ask your fellow students. Maybe one of them has come across a suitable vacancy or has been hired by a company looking for more people on its team.
Visit company websites and social media pages
After publishing your resume in some of the popular job boards, navigate the websites of the companies that you would like to work for. Visiting their offices may also be worth a try, although many businesses have restrictions amid the COVID 19 pandemic. Still, you can try to leave your resume at the reception desk along with your contact details. Your perseverance and determination will certainly be noticed and taken into account when the company makes its final hiring decision.
Be prepared. Do some research and study carefully all requirements of the job seeker. Read some popular Q&As for interviews, write down your answers and rehearse before you go. When you get an invitation for an interview, look carefully at the company’s website, its mission, values, traditions, history, corporate culture, etc. Read the latest news, press releases and plans. Any additional info about your future job will come in handy at the interview.
Here is a list of useful things to do before your first-round job interview!
Finding a job can be an intimidating task for any young graduate. But don’t fall into despair – every day is an opportunity to gain valuable job searching skills and experiences. As daunting as it may seem, you will never have a second chance to find the first job in your life. Enjoy the road and keep our tips and tricks for finding your first post-graduation job in handy.
And if you need some professional help, don’t be shy – get in touch with one of our awesome HR wizards for a smooth, effortless, and enjoyable start of your career!
