Study can be pretty stressful, but it is life afterwards – going into the ‘real world’ of full-time work – that tends to leave most students struck with worry.
Finding a full-time job in your field of study after you graduate can be difficult, especially when the market becomes flooded with an influx of candidates fresh out of university or TAFE. However, there are five things you can do before graduation is on your horizon to enhance your chances of nabbing a post-study job.
1. Research your industry
Before you send out any applications, you need to know what jobs are actually out there. Research your industry to find out what graduate or entry level positions are available in your field and who the typical employers are. Doing this will also illuminate any gaps or niches in the market, which will inform whether you need to complete some work experience or internships to develop the skill set to fill this gap.
2. Volunteer
Getting work experience in your field can be frustrating, especially when many job vacancies make relevant work experience a mandatory requirement for applicants. One way to get around this and add some meaningful work experience to your CV is to seek out volunteering positions in your field.
This could mean contacting organisations or charities that are associated with your area of study to see what find out volunteer experience is available.
3. Craft a tailored CV
A one-size-fits-all resume may be easier to send out to multiple applications but tailoring your CV to the position you’re applying for is definitely worth the extra effort.
By matching the skills and experience on your CV to those in the job requirements, you are showing that you not only understand what the role requires but that you also have the aptitude to be the best candidate.
4. Seek out career support
If you’re feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of finding a full-time job, why not engage with career support services?
Your institution will no doubt have a careers service, where you can talk with advisors about potential pathways and programs that may lead to a job in your field of interest. Better yet, many of these services offer workshops on resume writing, job interviews and more to help you prepare for life after graduation.
5. Network with a difference
For many of us, networking can be a nightmare. Going to job fairs or networking events can leave you feeling discouraged and disheartened, especially when everyone else seems to have connections to the industry you’re trying to break into.
However, networking doesn’t have to be like this. Networking can be utilising resources you already have to uncover connections you didn’t know you had. Reach out to tutors, family, friends or your existing workplace – you will be surprised by how many people you already know can connect you with someone who works in your field of interest.
You can gain valuable qualifications to aid your job hunt from National Training today!
