If you are a young college graduate, who wants to start a professional career, there is one significant problem you may encounter. This is a lack of working experience. As you know, employers give preference to those candidates, who already have experience, leaving talented people like you out of eyeshot. Don’t worry, there are ways to deal with this. Here is a list of efficient tips for graduates, who look for their first job.
What kind of job are you looking for?
That’s it, let’s start with the most crucial question. What exactly do you want? What skills and career aspiration do you have? Think about something you are interested in. You can outline a way forward and start with something more accessible. For example, if you are pursuing a career of a journalist, you can start with something relevant like online writing services. Of course, when you need to build your financial life as quickly as possible, you may think that everything you really need is money. However, this doesn’t mean that you don’t have to look for better options.
Make a research and find companies you like
Before you apply for a job, make sure that you know the market. Try to find as many relevant firms as you can and read about them. Find some feedback from their customers and former or current employees. Learn the managerial structure. Grasp how everything works there, who is responsible for hiring process, and contact this person.
Check small companies
Starting your career with a large company might be risky. The reason is that large companies attract advanced professionals, so you have all chances to lose to an experienced candidate. What is more, these are usually old corporations that give preference to people, who already know what to do. Some of them are ready to take newcomers and teach them in the process, but this is something you need to be assured of before you apply. To increase your chances, you should start with small companies. Usually, managers are ready to train new workers in a very specific way that corresponds to their particular needs.
Pay more attention to your future supervisors
Of course, HRs make hiring decisions, but only partly. Be aware that your candidature will be whether approved or disapproved by a manager. You should focus your efforts on managers rather than relying on HR. Your communication with Human Resources Department can be limited to filling out the necessary documents and applications.
Take part in volunteering programs
One of the most efficient ways to get relevant professional experience is to take part in a volunteering program. You will have a chance to work and gain knowledge. What is more, this is something you can add to your CV and increase your chances to get a job you want.
Spread your interests wider
Your first career steps are all about building background and experience. So if you cannot get the job you want so much, don’t get frustrated – find something similar. Make your search as wide as possible and try different options. Find more places to test and improve your skills.
Make everyone know that you’re looking for a job
Tell everyone you know that you are looking for a job. Ask you relatives and friends if they know someone, who may need a person with skills of yours. The more people know that you are looking for a job, the more chances you have to get lucky.
Improve your skills constantly
Never stop developing your skills even during a job search. Check the requirements of the market and think how can you meet them to the fullest. Continue learning all the time and make professional education a part of your everyday routine. Good luck with your job search!
Jennifer Pauli graduated from Corvinus School of Management and finished the faculty of Journalism at Corvinus University of Budapest. Currently, she is an editor, business writer, and copywriter, working with different well-known companies, blogs, and personalities.