Ahh, remember back at college when they made those promises that a degree would be your golden ticket to the career of your dreams? It turns out they weren’t painting a completely accurate picture.
So, if you’re a graduate who is still working behind the tills of your local supermarket, you are not alone. This is unlikely to offer any comfort as you count your average wage following another week in a job that you thought would end with your studies. But there is still time to land your dream job; you just need to know how.
The first step is to appreciate the reasons why your degree hasn’t unlocked the door just yet. Here’s all you need to know.
#1. Jobs Are Difficult To Find
It’s been a decade since the double recession completely changed the world of business as we know it. While there has been a massive recovery since then, the fallout can still be felt to some degree. When combined with the fact that there are more graduates than ever, it makes the field more competitive than ever.
There are plenty of jobs out there. However, finding the right positions in your field of expertise can be difficult. Knowing where to look is arguably the hardest step of all, but agents like Alexander Daniels can point you in the right direction. This information alone will instantly put you in a stronger position than well over half of all graduates.
Meanwhile, it’s always worth trying to open your network with LinkedIn and alternative services. After all, it’s who you know that matters.
#2. Degrees Are Often Too Generic
A degree gives you a foundation of knowledge in a chosen field. This should theoretically leave you in a position to apply for a whole host of different roles and position. In reality, most companies are far more specific in what they are looking for. This can work against you.
That’s not to say that your degree doesn’t give you a great starting point. Still, additional courses and qualifications will make you stand out from the crowd. It’s those licenses that will work like a magnet. From there, the rewards of your degree will come into play too.
Qualifications only go so far. It’s equally important to gain valuable experience. Taking internships and voluntary work can be demoralising but can pay dividends in the long run. Do not underestimate for a second.
#3. You Haven’t Represented Yourself Well
Many graduates allow themselves to be ruled by their degree or CV. In most cases, though, employers are equally interested in getting to know you as a person. Character traits are what truly separate good workers from great ones.
First impressions count for everything. As such, building a portfolio website can showcase your talents in a very effective fashion. Meanwhile, conducting research into the company ahead of interviews will serve you well. Personal appearances are an equally important factor, and suits from Brook Taverner can give you an advantage. If nothing else, it will boost your self-confidence levels.
The first graduate job is the hardest to land as you have little experience to back up your skills. Present yourself well, and the odds of success will suddenly look far brighter.
Have you found it hard to find a job after uni? What are you doing to improve your chances?
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