Finding a job is easy nowadays. The current employment market is candidate-driven, regardless of whether you are in Europe, the US, or the Middle East. Candidates can pick and choose between various job offers. However, this is usually applicable to experienced candidates. New graduates or people wanting to change their careers face many obstacles while trying to step into their dream career path with no related skills or job-related experience. And here’s the Catch-22: “You can’t get a job without experience, and you can’t get experience without a job.” I’ve been in the situation myself, and my experience has shown that this is not impossible.
Here are some suggestions to consider:
Highlight relevant experience
Try to think of any projects you worked on at university that connect with the role you would like to apply for: the project may include group or individual assignments. The best advice I could give you is to relate your thesis to the industry you would like to develop in. A research project will also help you describe your motivation for a role and present better during a job interview. If you are changing careers, try to link your previous professional experience and what you have learned to the desired field.
Create your own career experience
I know it seems like an impossible mission but try to think outside the box. If you aim to become a graphic designer, you will likely have some drawings or work you can include in your first portfolio. Maybe you are a blog writer, and some of the content that you produced relates to your dream job. Could any of your articles be included in your resume?
Show your personality
Identifying the transferable skills that are closely related to your dream is beneficial. Employers are looking for potential so highlight your strengths. Studying the job description will give you an idea about what sort of traits are required. They may include teamwork, communication, problem-solving, listening, analytical, or IT skills
Network and use social media
Being visible on social media is always a good idea. You can use LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter. Share relevant content and invite others to join your network. If you are applying to a particular company, invite corporate recruiters to join your social network as well. Uploading your resume on various job boards will also make you noticed
Learn foreign language
Some of the reasons that people learn foreign languages are to discover other cultures, travel easily, or study abroad. It can also improve employability. Corporations are opening their branches globally, dealing with customers around the world. Therefore, candidates with a working knowledge of multiple languages are increasingly in demand. From my experience, the roles that require fluent knowledge of at least two languages (e.g., German, Danish, and/or Norwegian) are the most difficult to fill. There are plenty of openings for candidates speaking foreign languages other than English. Frequently, these are entry-level roles and a great way to start your career.
Focus on your hobbies and interests
Be interesting! When speaking passionately about your hobbies, your actions imply engagement, which is crucial to all employers. Also, employers want to find out more about who you are as a person, and find out what you can do in your free time is one way to do that.
Use the advantage of student exchange programs.
Student exchange programs offer countless benefits for students keen to embark on an international adventure. After completing a study abroad program, you will have a new perspective based on the culture, language, history, and geography of the country you studied.
Internships
An Internship is, without a doubt, the best way to get your first professional experience. If you struggle with getting a placement, I would advise considering volunteering. Taking this approach will help you determine what you want to do and how you can contribute to the company.
If you find any of the tips above useful, please let me know in a comment. Also, if there is anything I have missed and you would like to add, let me know!