Preperation for the start of a career
You're looking for a new job? Be prepared with these 6 tips
Entering the job market to find the first job, to search for a new job or even to move to a new area is always challenging, especially when you are competing with people who have work experience. However, following some tips and / or techniques, associated with your effort, commitment, self-confidence and ambition, make this a possible mission.
Here are some of the steps you should consider before submitting your application to potential employers:
Tip 1
Define objectives
It's important to think about what you really want for your career - in the short and medium term. “If you have no destiny, any road will be good!”. Ask yourself:
- What do I like to do?
- What am I really good at?
- What are my (soft and technical) skills and knowledge?
- What kind of company culture would I fit into?
If you keep this in mind, it will be easier for you to focus on your goals and align your actions accordingly.
Tip 2
Organize your resume
Your CV might be the first impression that someone (e.g. an HR Manager) has of you. If it is, it reflects your personal “brand”.
All sections of your CV require dedication and full attention. Before you build your CV, you should analyze different types of structure. Create a CV that transmits your personal branding and do not let yourself be limited by the traditional Europass.
Take a risk and create your own CV structure. Show your personality and be different!
Tip 3
Reinforce your training and / or volunteer actions
You can improve your employability by attending trainings (also online), workshops, TED Talks, Podcasts, etc.. You even might refer to your volunteer programs. All of these demonstrate initiative, proactivity to develop yourself and also social responsibility. These experiences will add value to your CV, can make your future job interview much more interesting and can also boost networking.
Tip 4
Who are you on the Internet?
If a recruiter does an internet search with your name, what will they find?
Do you have the right privacy settings to make sure your personal and professional life does not mix?
Can you assure that the way you behave on social networks (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn etc.) positively influences your image if it is found by potential employers?
Are you aware of the impact of the previous questions on an application process?
Tip 5
Your network is the key
People usually prefer to relate with individuals they know or that they have heard about (like a recommendation). Inform your friends, family, former academic colleagues and professional contacts that you are looking for a job or a new challenge and do not be afraid to ask for help in creating leads or recommendations.
Your LinkedIn profile will help you build your network, but attending conferences, workshops and related events can also be a great networking opportunity.
But: Remember that LinkedIn is not a social network. It's a professional one. Be careful with what you post, what you comment on, how you comment on, etc.
Tip 6
Follow, follow, follow!
Search for the pages of potential employers and become a follower (in all the online platforms that they might have: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.). Stay alert. You will not only receive news but also be updated on job postings. If you carefully follow these companies you will learn a lot about their company culture.
You will have a good perspective on what is currently happening on the job market and find out which company you're best suited for.
