Graduating from university or college is a great accomplishment, but after that, it starts a new journey of professionalism. It can be daunting to search for a first job after graduation. With no prior experience, the competitive job market can be challenging, so freshers might get overwhelmed. Getting a new job after graduation is easy with the correct approach, mindset, and preparation. This blog will walk you through how to get your first job after graduation with the right skills and process.
Why is a job required after graduation?
There are various reasons why a job after graduation is essential. Graduation is a great accomplishment but it is entering into adulthood which comes with responsibilities and independence. The main reasons why a job after graduation is needed for:
- financial independence
- developing skills
- professional growth
- having a sense of purpose
- career progression
- increasing personal goals
- gaining confidence and independence
- societal expectations
Getting a job after graduation is more than the necessity for being financially independent, it is a way for personal growth, fulfilling needs, and career progression.
How to get a job after graduation
Here are some tips for freshers so they can easily get a job after graduation.
1) Start early
You should start searching for jobs after graduation when you are in college. Get a good GPA (grade point average) which will help you to impress the managers. Try working in part-time jobs or have an internship not just to build your resume and work experience but also to make sure that you have an interest in the field you have chosen.
2) Job search
Make sure that your direction is correct while you are searching for jobs. Make a list of your experience, degree, training, interest, skills, and hobbies. This will help you to build a resume from which you can determine the job after graduation you can qualify for. Also make sure to use filters like benefits, industry, location, salary, and culture of the company.
3) Strong Resume
Make a resume that focuses on your skills, talent, and education. Start a brief objective which states what are your goals and type of job you want to proceed with. If you have no prior experience in the work field then you can replace that section with accomplishments. It is important to have a strong resume as it makes the first positive impression on the hiring manager.
4) Professional online presence
Make sure to have a professional online presence. Be present on platforms like LinkedIn where you can showcase your experience, and skills, and connect with several professionals. Have a personal site or blog which will highlight your accomplishments, expertise, and projects.
5) Networking
Start your networking during college itself. Join organizations, attend career fairs, and connect with professionals from your career field. Having personal networks can lead to new job openings which are sometimes not publicly advertised.
6) Strategies
Keep your focus on job applications. Customize your applications according to the job description which also aligns with your interests. Use social media platforms, job boards, and sites for opportunities that suit your interest the best.
7) Work experience through internships
Internships or part-time jobs are stepping stones for freshers with no prior experience. They offer not only work experience but also can help you to find full-time job after graduation if you perform well in internships. This also allows you to explore your interests in the career fields and roles which will help you to build a network accordingly.
8) Prepare for interviews
Prepare for interviews and questions asked during. Research about the companies you have applied for and accordingly prepare for questions asked during the interviews. This will show your genuine interest which will also help you to stand out in this competitive job market as a candidate.
Common Interview Questions for Fresh Graduates
Here are some common questions asked during interviews for fresh graduates:
- Tell About Yourself: This question is asked at the beginning so it gives you a chance to summarize your education, background, and work experience.
2. Why are you interested in this field? : The hiring manager tries to understand your passion and genuine interest in the job role you are applying for.
3. Why do you want to work in this industry? : Here the manager is curious to know if you have researched about their company and whether your interest aligns with theirs.
4. What are your strengths and weaknesses? : This question leads to your honesty and self-awareness.
5. What do you know about this company? : This question leads to checking whether you have put enough effort into understanding the interests of the company.
6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? : This helps the manager to understand your goals and ambition which will help them to understand that your values align with the company.
7. What makes you different from other potential candidates? : This makes the manager understand your experience and skills.
8. What are your salary expectations? : These questions might be tricky ones for freshers so better to search about the average stipend based on location and role.
9. Why Should We Hire You?: This is a chance to help you get fit for the role where you can summarize that you are a potential candidate.
Being prepared and ready for the interview will help you make a first positive impression with confidence.
Conclusion
Getting a job after graduation is a great milestone that helps you to build your career. The journey seems to be challenging but you have to be persistent and prepared about it with a proactive mindset which will make the difference. By having a strong resume, leveraging your connections, and having skills, you can make the best impression as a strong candidate in the market. Good luck to the graduates who are settling into the world of professionalism.
FAQs
How should I start looking for my first internship/job after graduation?
Start by knowing what are your interests and research the company that aligns with your values. Use LinkedIn, job boards and websites, and college career centers to find job openings.
What are the things to include in a resume for no/little prior work experience?
Focus on writing about your volunteer work, education, coursework, internships, and extra activities. Highlight your skills, leadership, teamwork, and communication skills.
Should I apply for job after graduation even If I can’t meet the qualifications?
Yes, if you are enthusiastic about the job role then you should apply for the job. The hiring managers often look for ideal qualifications even if the candidate has not reached up to the mark and shows eagerness to learn.
What can I do to showcase myself as a fresher?
You should have the willingness to learn, and show enthusiasm and adaptability. Highlight your internships, accomplishments, and projects which will showcase your initiative and skills. Customize your application and resume according to the job description for each role.
How to get job in bank after graduation?
It is easy to get a job in a bank after you graduate. Apply with a strong resume to BanksterIndia which is a job portal that connects top talent with openings in the BFSI industry including Commercial Banks, Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), Insurance Companies, Fintech, Mutual Funds, Co-operatives, etc.