Hey there, fellas! It's time for another update on our rollercoaster ride in the job search jungle. Buckle up and join us on this wild adventure! So, as Sheree mentioned in our previous post, the struggle of finding a job is no walk in the park. It's like navigating a maze blindfolded while juggling flaming torches – exhausting, to say the least!
Being a fresh-faced graduate eagerly awaiting that glorious graduation day makes the anticipation even more nerve-wracking. The whole process feels like a bizarre combination of excitement and frustration. You submit what feels like a million applications, meticulously crafting each cover letter and tweaking your resume to perfection. You pour your heart and soul into those documents, hoping they'll catch the eyes of potential employers. And then, the waiting game begins. You anxiously refresh your inbox every five minutes, hoping for any response. You know that feeling when it's so quiet you can hear a pin drop? Yeah, sometimes it's like that - like there's just nothing going on around you. It's like your applications disappeared into the Bermuda Triangle of job applications, never to be seen again. But keep hope!
Oh, by the way, it's Ange here. As She and our friends embark on their job-hunting adventure, I've found myself contemplating what comes next after tossing those caps in the air. It's fascinating to see how some people embark on exciting adventures in far-off lands or take a month to unwind and recharge. Meanwhile, others are eager to enter the job market, motivated by their aspirations to build a secure financial future. Both paths offer unique opportunities for growth and fulfillment.
As I considered my options, I decided to reach out to people who had already undergone the post-graduation transition. I aimed to gain helpful advice and insights on how to make the most of this period.
As I observed various individuals, I was captivated by their distinct post-graduation journeys. Their tales inspired a yearning for adventure, prompting me to pack my bags and embark on my epic journey.
However, others were quick to dive into the search for employment. The drive to establish a reliable source of income and lay a sturdy groundwork for their future spurred them to take action. They believed in the power of starting early, leveraging the momentum gained from years of studying to jumpstart their careers.
In my quest for guidance, I sought advice from seasoned individuals who had successfully navigated the post-graduation phase and developed these tips.
First, reflecting on your aspirations and motivations is essential. Analyze your goals and passions and contemplate how to integrate them into your behavior. Allow yourself to delve into your emotions and insights and strive to understand your values clearly. Examining your inner self can establish your priorities and pave the way to a more satisfying existence. I have also engaged in such reflections to understand my aspirations and discover what truly drives me.
During my self-reflection, I took out a pen and paper to explore my goals and passions. I asked myself vital questions such as, "What do I truly value?" "What activities bring me happiness and a sense of purpose?" and "What do I hope to accomplish in various aspects of my life?"
As I contemplated these questions, scenarios from my own experiences emerged. I remember being so engaged in writing a short story that time slipped away, and I felt excited as my creativity took over. It reminded me of my love for storytelling and writing in high school and my aspiration to become a published author one day. But being an author is my optional job or a hobby.
Reflecting on my goals and interests also made me consider the importance of personal growth and continuous learning. I recalled when I enthusiastically delved into new subjects, such as learning a musical instrument or exploring different cultures through travel. These experiences emphasized my desire for exploration, acquiring knowledge, and expanding my horizons.
The second thing to do is to update your resume and build a portfolio. While you are having a break after graduation, search for tips on how you will be able to create a good resume that will make the employer think that you have good qualities. Remember that your resume and portfolio are like your brochure, and you are the product. When I experienced working as a student assistant in the HR office of our school, I observed that many applicants still provided much information in their resume or portfolio that was optional.
At the same time, some applicants gave fancy formats that would make the HR have second thoughts if they are earnest about seeking a job. If you are in a similar situation, seeking guidance or attending career seminars before attending job fairs may be beneficial. This can help you better understand and explore potential career paths.
Attending job seminars may seem tedious sometimes, but keeping an open mind is worth it. Instead of tuning out the unengaging speakers, pay attention to those who provide significant knowledge. You might be amazed by what you can uncover!
Lastly, while taking much time to prepare for entering the world of industry, have yourself ready for the interviews. You must know what to brag about and not during a job interview. One time, I had a professor that was also the head of the HR office in their company. During one of our classes, he shared valuable insights about the hiring process and the qualities employers look for in potential candidates.
According to my professor, being "on point" meant clearly understanding the job requirements and effectively showcasing relevant skills and experiences. It's great to know that employers value it when applicants try to tailor their qualifications to meet the position’s specific requirements. This demonstrates that they have invested time researching and comprehending the role they seek to fill.
Upon reflecting on the various pieces of advice I've gathered, I've concluded that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to post-graduation life. It's a profoundly personal journey tailored to everyone's unique circumstances. Whether one chooses to embark on a global adventure or pursue employment right away, it's essential to remain authentic to oneself and stay on the right path.
Keep an eye out for additional insights, anecdotes, and advice as we go through mysteries of life after graduation. And, as usual, don't hesitate to share your experiences and thoughts in the comments section. ❤️
All images are mine unless stated otherwise. b
