5 Things To Do If You Don’t Have A Job After Graduation

When I graduated from university a couple of years ago, I did not expect to be still depending on my parents. With my degree in communication, I had envisioned starting a career immediately. But instead, I found myself jobless, stressed out, and sending out numerous CVs daily.

Being jobless and desperately sending out CVs is probably where you are at. With the expectation of 3-5 years of experience to qualify for an entry-level job and the pressure to land a position immediately, the reality of your job search can be difficult and the lack of responses from your submitted applications can be frustrating.

To stop this from breaking your spirit and discouraging your efforts, here are five things to do if you don’t have a job after graduation.

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1. Widen your search

A reason you might be struggling is that you’re focusing on your ideal job instead of searching for one that fits your scope of interest.

Open yourself up to more locations, diverse industries, career types, and entry-level positions, even if you qualify for a higher-level job. Focus on getting your foot in the door.

Don’t settle for a job you dislike. Rather, be open to the ones that might not completely fit what you consider your dream.

2. Consider an internship

To prove that you have the suitable qualifications to do the job, you need experience. By applying for an internship in the field that you’re interested in, you’re gaining valuable knowledge in the career you want to have. At the same time, you’ll be making connections with professionals who could be potential employers.

3. Reach out to your network

Send an email to the lecturer you’re close to, contact the freelancer you admire, and set up a meeting with a like-minded peer. Who knows – you might discover an opportunity that wasn’t listed on a job board and solidify your relationships with others along the way.

You can also attend events or join professional bodies such as College Alumni Associations, Networking Events, Career Fairs, Professional Organizations and even LinkedIn.

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4. Build on your skills or learn new ones

While you might not have a job yet, you can still invest in the resources that will make you competitive as a professional and well-versed as a person.

Do you love writing ? Launch a blog. If you’re not sure which skills to build on, you can always boost your credibility with these certifications.

The best way to stay current in the field you want to work in is to produce work and showcase skills that can support your chances of hiring in the first place.

5. Update and tailor your CV

Every job description is different – and your CV should reflect these variations. Although it’s a smart idea to have a general draft of your CV, remember to put in the extra effort to tailor it to the job you’re applying for.

Skim through the job description for keywords and incorporate all of this in your CV where appropriate. Also, don’t forget to describe your accomplishments and quantify these accomplishments when numbers are available.

In Conclusion,

Despite the stress of looking through job listings, fixing your CV, and making yourself vulnerable to potential rejection, applaud yourself for relentlessly trying. Continue to believe in what the skills you have to offer and recognize that the right company will be able to appreciate them.