As you seek to gain some experiences to help solidify your career passions and talent, keep these tips in mind.
Make a list of activities you enjoy and consider how these activities can translate into a job. If you volunteer at an after-school program, positions such as a teacher or coach may be a viable option. If you like to take pictures in your spare time, you could consider working as a photographer.
Transferable skills can be transferred from one setting to another, such as teamwork, strong communication and leadership. Add these to your resume to demonstrate how past experiences prepared you for the job you are applying. Rehearse some example stories to tell during an interview that demonstrate how you apply these skills in a work setting.
As a first-time job seeker with little to no previous work experience, writing a resume can be challenging. Even if you have no previous work experiences, a resume is crucial.
Include clubs and organizations you’ve participated in, volunteer work, academic background, transferable and technical skills and certifications. Work history can be paid, unpaid, part-time or special projects. To help show alignment to your interests/skills and the company’s mission and job requirements, it is critical that your resume is updated and specific to each employer you apply.
Much like a resume, a cover letter is also necessary when applying for a job. Your cover letter should be custom tailored to each company you apply to, explaining how you’d be a valuable asset rather than focusing on your accomplishments. You’re more likely to hear back from a company if you gear your cover letter directly to them and explain how you’d be a good fit.
Pace yourself by setting daily or weekly goals. Set a goal to apply to X amount of jobs each week or spend Y amount of time job searching and networking weekly. Research industry averages, such as salary, so you know what to expect before applying for a job. Be curious and research industries you are unfamiliar with to gain additional insight into opportunities you may not have initially identified.
Start building your professional network online! LinkedIn is the perfect outlet to connect with classmates, potential employers, friends and family members while showcasing your skills. Add your skills, a short bio, and connect with businesses, professional groups and alumni groups. Our LinkedIn Guide can help walk you through the process from start to finish.
Your social media profiles can tell a potential interviewer a lot about you and can often be the deciding factor on whether you are offered an interview. Before beginning your job search process, take the time to reassess your online profiles; are they sending a positive message of yourself? If the answer is no, go through and delete all questionable content.
Create an elevator pitch that clearly states not only why you are interested in this company/opportunity but also why you are the best candidate for the job along with why the characteristics and skills you possess make you the best fit.
Focus on building your network. Attend networking and community events both virtually and in person to help make new connections and meet individuals in your field. Ask your contacts for introductions to key individuals in the community within your desired field of work or exploration. Keep in contact with classmates, friends and family members – you never know where a potential job lead could come from.
By volunteering, you’ll gain experience, acquire new skills, meet new people and give back to the community at large. Although often overlooked, volunteering is a great networking opportunity! It can help you expand your contacts, build career options and, most importantly, gain a sense of accomplishment while supporting your community.
Maybe the job you landed isn’t exactly what you were looking for. Instead of viewing this as a negative, try to view it as an opportunity to gain experience and contacts, to expand your network, and to build beneficial relationships for the future. This will help you advance to your dream job, so remain open to opportunities such as internships, job shadowing or volunteer opportunities during your job search process.