It wasn’t that long ago you were wearing your convocation gown and accepting your diploma. Now it’s time to move away from the world of academia and into the business world by looking for a job related to your desired field. Here are three pieces of advice to keep in mind while you embark on your professional journey and start your career:
Don’t Underestimate Yourself
Many new grads feel overwhelmed when looking for their first job, and they let self-doubt, fear, and anxiety hold them back. In result, they take low-paying jobs that they’re overqualified for and miss the opportunity to find jobs that will provide a stepping stone into their desired career. Job-hunting is also challenging and competitive, and it’s easy to become demotivated or feel inadequate when you’re reading job descriptions and desired qualifications. It’s important not to underestimate the value of your degree and what you’ve learned, and what you can offer a company. It’s also crucial not to take rejections personally, and to keep trying and applying. Don’t allow yourself to be overwhelmed by many entry-level positions that require experience you don’t have yet – remember, many other applicants will also be recent grads, and some employers may be flexible if they like other aspects of your resume.
Don’t Look For The ‘Perfect’ Job, Look For The ‘Right’ Job
Despite what you may see in movies or television series, the perfect job doesn’t exist. There will always be aspects of a job that you dislike and challenges that need to be overcome. Don’t be overly picky while job hunting and stay bound by the belief that you need to find the ‘perfect’ job. Look at the ‘right’ job that will provide reasonable job satisfaction, opportunities to learn, and reasonable economic benefits. However, to find the right job you need to be diligent as well as prepared while searching. Look at new job postings every day, and apply to jobs that interest you. Have a resume and cover letter ready (and be sure to have a professional at your university/college’s career center review it and provide input). If you’re called in for an interview, be prepared by researching the company and practicing your answers to common questions. And during the interview, take note of the company’s environment and culture, and ask questions about opportunities to learn new skills and grow. If a job seems like a good opportunity, even if it has some drawbacks, accept the position knowing that you don’t have to stay there forever.
Look For A Job That Provides Learning Experience
Your first job as a new graduate won’t be your only job. In fact, statistically, you probably won’t stay at your first job for more than two years. Most first jobs are entry-level positions that provide great experience and on-the-job training. After a few years, you will likely want to move on to another job that offers you more room to grow or will teach you new skills. When searching for your first job, consider positions that will provide you with learning experiences to help you move into a higher-level position in the future. Think of your career as a ladder, and each job as another step that will allow you to reach the top.
Harcourts: Dressing Grads In High-Quality Graduation Robes & Convocation Attire Since 1842
Harcourts provides custom-made convocation attire legal robes and call-to-the-bar attire. When you get your graduation robe from Harcourts, know that your convocation gown is part of Harcourts’ long history of providing students with the finest quality robes to highlight their academic achievements. Contact us to receive a quote and to learn more about our convocation attire and gown rentals.
