So you’ve handed in your first pieces of coursework for the year and you think perhaps that now might be a good time to continue the job search – or start it! If you dread graduation, which is creeping ever closer, but still haven’t started applying for internships or jobs yet it doesn’t mean that you’re lazy! There are many reasons why you might not have started looking for work, but identifying those reasons can help you begin what may seem like a daunting task.
Looking for a job is a job in itself
Not only do you have to sort out a CV, compile a portfolio and gather references but you also have to research the companies you are applying for and fight your way through application forms and competence tests. To make the task more manageable, try devoting a short period of time to your job hunt every few days; sometimes a few short sprints can be less daunting than a marathon.
You compare yourself to others
Being surrounded by talented and successful people may make you feel a tad inadequate, especially if they’ve managed to find the kind of job opportunities you are looking for. Thing is, they probably felt just as nervous as you. Instead of comparing yourself to them, concentrate on your own experience or have a chat with them, they might be able to help you.
You’re put off by being told “there’s nothing out there”
But there is something out there! There are companies looking for capable people but they’re not going to find you unless you put yourself out there and start applying to their positions. Don’t listen to the pessimists! Usually the people that tell you there’s no jobs are just making excuses, haven’t been looking very long or are pretty unlucky.
You don’t know what you want to do yet
Getting work placements or a job can help you decide. Even if you do an internship at a placement that isn’t your first choice, you can use that experience to acclimatise yourself to the workplace so that when you do find something you want to do, you’ll feel more confident. Even if you do find a placement in an area you love but at a company where you don’t fit in, you can always look for something else if you’re unhappy.
You’ve got the fear
Moving into the world of work from university is a big change and can feel daunting, but remember that not all change is bad. If you put the work into finding a place that’s right for you it may even be a change for the better.
Have you been putting off the job search? Why? Let us know in the comments below.
Photo: Flazingo Photos / Flickr
English student at Warwick, writer, gamer, job seeker.
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