Why Do Fresh Graduates Find It Difficult To Get A Job?
So you’re finally graduating from university. Congratulations! Soon you can start applying for your dream job and building your career.
It may all seem exciting, but as you might have seen from films, real-life job-hunting can be challenging. The truth is, getting a job these days is no walk in the park – and it's usually for reasons beyond your control.
Still, knowing what challenges await you and having ample preparation can go a long way in aiding you with finding a job that not only matches your skill set but also keeps you fulfilled. Here are some of the most common setbacks fresh graduates face and what you can do to help improve your chances of landing that dream role.
Intense Competition
Today, graduating from a top university does not guarantee an easy win in the job market. With educational institutions increasing their scholarship grant offers, more students now have access to the best schools. It evens the playing field and creates heightened competition for fresh graduates. Your educational background just won’t cut it, as thousands of other candidates – with degrees – are eager to land their first job, too.
Moreover, graduation season means an influx of new candidates looking for a job. You can get a leg up on the competition by submitting your resumes well ahead of the commencement exercises.
Did you have work experience prior to graduation? It may help you build an advantage over other freshly minted jobseekers. In your CV, highlight internships and volunteer work in fields that fall under your chosen industry. If you're not in a hurry to get hired, bulk up your resume by gaining experience in charitable or non-profit organisations. It will give you a feel of a work environment and a sense of fulfilment.
Most companies will require specific qualifications, but don’t let this overwhelm or discourage you. Apply anyway, as more often than not, most freshly graduated candidates don’t meet all criteria.
Related article: Job Search for Fresh Grads: 4 challenges you’ll face
Insufficient Experience
You might notice that job ads often indicate that they require at least one to three years of experience. Ironically, it usually applies to entry-level positions as well.
Don’t fret. While employers deem work experience an advantage, it does not disqualify or discredit whatever internships or volunteer work you’ve gained. Keep in mind that companies also look at the background or nature of your work-related activities. You might be surprised that hirers place a high premium on environmental advocacies or charity work. Experiences like these help you broaden your network. And, when it comes to job searches and career growth, sometimes, it’s all about building the right connections. You never know how much you can benefit from someone putting in a good word for you.
If you are not finding the job leads you want, you can also open yourself up to part-time work. Gain that much-coveted valuable experience while continuing your search for your full-time dream role. It gets you the best of both worlds, making you productive and helping you earn money. If your chosen field is portfolio-driven, you can always use this time to build samples of your work, too, be it designs, articles, mock-ups, or videos.
Lack of Skills
Another hurdle you may encounter as you try getting your first job is not having a certain level of expertise. It can encompass a variety of skills, from speaking, presenting, and using specific programmes or software, to analytical prowess. It ultimately depends on which industry you are targeting.
Again, preparation can do wonders for your job applications. Having determined the kind of work you are interested in, make sure you research what skills are required beforehand. This way, you can seize the opportunity to brush up on these. There are many ways to upskill. Consider attending a class or workshop, getting a certification, to seeking the guidance of a mentor or coach. Find the avenue that works best for you.
Furthermore, don’t underestimate the importance of good interview skills. As a fresh graduate, being interviewed can be one of the most awkward, uncomfortable, but essentially eye-opening experiences you can have. Different interviewers will have varying methods of getting to know you and examining your intellect, professionalism, composure, and long-term goals as well.
Make sure you prep yourself accordingly by readying answers to commonly asked questions such as, “Can you tell me more about yourself?” and “Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?” These classic questions may be phrased in many ways, and you are sure to receive a version of them during your interview. Answer honestly and deliver your opinions in a way that sounds natural and not too rehearsed.
Another thing you have to be particular about is how you write your resume. Whether you’re applying online or submitting printed CVs at a job fair, write them briefly and concisely. Consider that recruiters and HR personnel have to sift through hundreds, if not thousands, of job applications a day, so having all the vita; elements on one page is more than enough.
Related article: This is how you should write a cover letter with no experience
High and Unrealistic Expectations
Optimism is one thing, but having too lofty and unrealistic aspirations won’t do you any good while applying for your first job.
Some candidates might expect to be contacted by their dream companies just because they graduated from a premier school, while others demand a high salary straightaway. These situations aren't exactly impossible. Some fresh graduates will have the good fortune of receiving this kind of job offer. However, it’s best to have a slice of humble pie as you make your way into the ”real world.” More often than not, circumstances might not play in your favour, and you will have to learn things the hard way to adjust.
Consider that there are base salaries for entry-level jobs and that rankings depend on tenure. These details will typically dictate how much pay you can expect to get. Ultimately, the crucial factor is getting into a good company that pays you fairly for your education and skills. And, of course, enough to help you pay your living expenses.
Note that your personality must also be a good fit for the job opening. Try taking the Myers-Briggs Personality Test to determine your personality type and what the best jobs are for you.
Related article: Stuff I wish I knew when I was a fresh graduate
Eyes on the Prize
Although getting your first job may seem overwhelming and has its share of challenges, don’t let these discourage or demotivate you from applying. You’re not alone in this journey, and there are countless aids to guide you along the way, from family, friends, and colleagues from internships and volunteer work to mentors and coaches. Online, many avenues are available to amplify your knowledge and skillsets as well as the Career Resources page to give you a helping hand.
With proper planning and motivation, you can map out your job application strategy long before your graduation march. With ample preparation, research, and a firm idea of where you want to take your career, you’re sure to catch the eye of your first employer. You’ve got this. Stay the course and good luck!
