JackieZ

How to get a first job out of university?

4 posts in this topic

Hi guys, my university graduation is coming up in May and I still haven't found a full-time job. I've been sending off resumes for a few months but have only got a few phone interviews. I"m starting to think sending resumes isn't the best way to do it. 

I was wondering if anyone has had success with networking into a job? I found this networking guide when I was searching a careers forum and it looks like a good plan. My only issue is I am super nervous about going for coffee chats with random strangers. It seems like we would have nothing to talk about and it would get awkward.

Anyone have advice on getting a first job out of university or networking to find a job?

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Make sure your profile is on Linkedin, well polished with professional photo and all the background information. You can make yourself "available for job" by paying a premium (around 25$ monthly I think) this will mean recruiters are more likely to see you and you spot the new opportunities earlier. A small "job-seeker" badge will be added. 

Other than that, always make sure to add a covering letter that is specifically suited for that position. Check your grammar thoroughly using something like Grammarly and make sure there are no references to other jobs you applied for and forgot to amend.

What @Shivasaid, look for internships, they are good entry positions to get in a reputable company and if they like you, they may keep you..

Your CV should not be longer than 1 page. Remove any reference of elementary and high school and only mention University and any relevant experience you've had. I'd also NOT use a photo on CV, it takes split of a second for someone to dump your CV because they don't like your face..or something on it. Start the CV by adding few sentences about yourself, writing in 3rd person..not to brag but to bring up the interesting facts and any achievements. 

If you have any personal achievements such as previous success in sports make sure to point it out. To this day my 5time national champion title in Judo has impressed every interviewer :D especially if they are a bit competition minded even though the last one was 10 years ago

And finally, focus on positions that are not older than 7 days, anything older (unless it is a specialist job) would have been bombarded by 100 CVs and ad that point you'll just be wasting your time. Linkedin" Job Seeker" content also allows you to see how many people applied before you and how do you rate against them

Good luck ! The first one sometimes requires a lot of patience

Edited by Michael569

“If you find yourself acting to impress others, or avoiding action out of fear of what they might think, you have left the path.” ― Epictetus

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I'm still studying at university but I worked at some jobs (including at very good companies). In this case, it seems to be a matter of going out and talking to people. You can even go out to nightclubs if you will.

I study Animation Design, so it's important to have a very well fashioned resumé (maybe it's important for formal jobs too). Sometimes I feel it's kind like going out to meet women: you try, get rejected, learn, try again, get rejected, learn, try again, get rejected, learn, try again, get rejected, learn...

I wish I knew sanyone else who could help with tips to land a job, but the best one I know is Thomas Frank.

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I think I need to improve my LinkedIn and start applying for more internships. Thanks guys!

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