We’ve reached the end of a very important chapter in our lives. Where do we go from here? What path do we embark on? Have we really thought about and developed a plan for our future? There’s a lot to consider in very little time.
If you’re a fresh graduate looking to land your first job, these tips will help do just that:
Tailor your CV for any specific job you apply for. Go through articles and websites that are well-known for helping candidates refine their CV and if they offer online services, you can build your CV online, arranging the items in a structural format. This will make it easier for the recruiter to go through your CV and quickly see if you’re the right fit. You might want to start out by highlighting the most important qualifications and use action words like ‘Founded’, ‘Designed’, ‘Improved’ or ‘Researched’ to give the recruiter a better knowledge of your skills. These keywords must be relevant and directly related to the job.
Don’t forget about your cover letter. If you’re approaching a recruiter, either physically or online, you might want to have a brief letter, introducing yourself and offering your skills and services. If you’re looking to apply for a specific job, mention that and say why you fit the criteria. If you’re looking to be a part of the company in one or another, mention that so the recruiter can suggest any appropriate vacancy. Don’t make the letter too lengthy or complicated. Ideally, it should outline your contribution, have your CV attached to it and convince the recruiter to consider your application.
Research must never be neglected. If you received a request for an interview, congratulations! Here’s one thing you must never forget: research. You need to study the company, via their official website, referrals, blogs… everything. Open your mind and the possibilities will be endless! The recruiters will expect you to know these things. If you study in depth and find things you resonate with or that you can directly relate your professional goals, that’s a bonus.
Explore the resources provided to you by LPU. There are various career advisory centres which give you access to career counsellors and a wide range of information and knowledge about finding first time employment. You may also utilize the libraries on campus or in your local area, to discover new resources and access that may not have realized were available.
Identify your strengths and communicate that. Recruiters will definitely want to know more about your various achievements, and how you are applying this to your professional growth. Describe your achievements in a proper format and be open to elaborating on that during your interview. How has your past success shaped or defined you? If you’ve developed technologies, products, useful skills or launched clubs, discuss why it was rewarding. Don’t forget about voluntary work (i.e. community service). Employers are keen to see in what ways you’ve been helpful to your society.
