As the time for graduation approaches, many university students are starting to feel anxiety, panic and desperation engulf them. It's not the loss of friends, carelessness and ridiculous dress up parties that is the cause of these feelings. No, it's the bleak prospect of finding a job that torments them.
We've all been told how hard it can be to find a well-paid job we love. Yet, this does not make the job hunting process any easier. In fact, more often than not many begin to feel discouraged, if not depressed, after sending tens of CVs and attending as many interviews without securing a job.
But if we want to live 'the good life' (a.k.a. independence and money), we've got no choice but to keep on trying. So here are some tips and ideas how to avoid 'career depression' and keep yourself motivated until you get that dream job.
*This blog post was inspired by Grads.co.uk, a brand new, cool and exciting jobs site dedicated solely to graduate and student recruitment.
We've all been told how hard it can be to find a well-paid job we love. Yet, this does not make the job hunting process any easier. In fact, more often than not many begin to feel discouraged, if not depressed, after sending tens of CVs and attending as many interviews without securing a job.
But if we want to live 'the good life' (a.k.a. independence and money), we've got no choice but to keep on trying. So here are some tips and ideas how to avoid 'career depression' and keep yourself motivated until you get that dream job.
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| Image courtesy of winnond at FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
- First of all make sure you know who you are and what you want to achieve in life. As spiritual as it may sound to you, it is often the case that many graduates leave university not quite sure what they are passionate about and what path they want to take in life. Investing some time in developing your 'identity capital' will pay off in the future. To make this search more career-oriented begin by asking yourself these questions: What am I good at and how can I use my natural abilities to their greatest effect? What do I really want from a job and what field of work genuinely fires me up? What sort of work environment would work best for me? Would I be happier starting up my own venture, or would I work best connected to an existing organisation? Reading, watching and listening to inspirational stories, such as the Ted Talk I mentioned in another post, can be of great help.
- Once that is out of the way try to set specific goals in your job search process. Figure out the best way to break into your industry of choice, be it (paid) internships, speculative job applications or additional training. Decide when and how often you will apply for jobs. Sometimes quality is better than quantity. Surprise your prospective employer with a hand written cover letter or a short video attached to your email application. Be realistic - applying for jobs takes time, especially if you want to impress, so start with smaller goals, such as applying to two companies this weekend, and increase them gradually.
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| Image courtesy of pakorn at FreeDigitalPhotos.net |
- Of course, sending your CV and cover letter is only half the work. It's easier to secure a job if you have contacts within your preferred sector or company, because they will speed up the selection process by referring you to the right people. Making contacts can be done through networking. We've heard that many times but how do you network exactly? The Guardian says that "It is possible for graduates to find connections everywhere, from university alumni to your cousin's friend's mother." Find out where key people from your industry meet to network - both online and offline (LinkedIn groups are a good place to start). Attend career and industry related events and bring with you basic, but professional-looking business cards. It's the best way to make sure people remember your name and contact details. Browse through your existing contacts and your university's alumni list to see if anyone has connections to your preferred industry or organisation. If you are a shy bird, you can use Twitter to connect with potential employers. A little goes a long way.
- If all else fails, do not despair. Don't underestimate and undervalue yourself. You spent time and money on education and you deserve a decent job. As the job hunting process stretches over time, be creative and look for other ways to fill in your time. If you don't have the luxury to sit in your mama's house and wait for that dream job, try taking up a part time job or looking for work in companies within your chosen industry but not in your preferred department. Rumour has it that starting in admin/reception positions could lead to promotions and opportunities to move to other departments within the company. If you have the time and resources you can also try to come up with a small scale enterprise idea which will bring you some quick cash and loads of business skills.
So there you go. These tips are just a starting point. Each person will have a different approach to things based on their situation and preferences. Remember to keep your head up and keep on trying.
*This blog post was inspired by Grads.co.uk, a brand new, cool and exciting jobs site dedicated solely to graduate and student recruitment.