Once you graduate from university, it is time to land your first job. However, the market is saturated with qualified graduates, and it is important to stand out from the rest. So how can you do that? That is where I come in. Below I have listed some insightful tips which you can implement in order to land your first job. So if you are eager to get ahead of all other candidates who are aiming for the same job, these tips are extremely valuable to you.
- Make the best out of social media
While most people think that social media is just for catching up with friends and family, many social media platforms are actually valuable networking tools.
Before applying for your first job, create professional social media profiles and become active in job communities that are part of your industry. Use your social media profile to showcase your skills, achievements, and recommendations, in addition to communicating with other people in your industry. - Be confident but stay humble
Having confidence in your skills and abilities will definitely give you a leg up when applying for jobs. Confidence is visible to your potential employer, and during an interview it will make you seem like you can be trusted to get the job done right.
Having confidence is important in all jobs, from receptionists to website designers, to marketers. - Make a good first impression
When applying for your first job, it is important for you to make a good first impression. Firstly, ensure that your appearance is clean, smart, and appropriate, as personal grooming will influence the way you are perceived. Apart from making sure that your hair and clothes are neat and clean, also make sure to be respectful to everyone that you meet. Being courteous is a forgotten art, and a simple please and thank you will make sure that you are remembered by those you come across. One other obvious tip which many people seem to forget is to turn their phone OFF in the interview room. - Stay persistent
When you apply for your first job you will hear the word ‘no’ more than once, regardless of your skills and grades. In spite of this, you need to remain persistent amidst the rejection. Every time you receive a rejection to a job application that you have submitted, take the following steps: – Ask the company or potential employer to contact you in the case that another job opening occurs – Leave your resume in case they decide to look over it again – Thank your employer for giving you their time and attention - Get experience
As you already know, experience is a necessity when applying for any job. Make sure you get experience during your time at university, and you can do this through the following methods: part-time work, volunteering, internships and leadership roles on campus e.g. student council. Apart from getting jobs and internships that will teach you responsibility, commitment, and time efficiency, you should look for experience that is significant for the career you are venturing into. For example, if you are aiming for a career in education(http://www.scholarbasket.info/uni-jobs?place=United+States), look for work as an instructor at a summer camp, or search for a job as a tutor. If you are looking to become an accountant, look for work at local stores where you can learn how to handle the books. Career related experience is very important!!