Navigating the Job Market as a New Graduate

Are you a graduate looking for your first professional role? Or currently a student seeking an internship?

It takes me back to when I was applying (with no real success…). It can feel like going through the motions, resorting to robotic and formulated cover letters and CVs. It is key to stand out from the crowd.

Below are 3 tips that could help separate you from everyone else!

1. Make your CV stand out

If you’ve got great grades and achievements, yes highlight them but prospective employers are now looking for the ‘right’ people almost more than the technical skills. Aim to demonstrate your rounded skill set and what you will bring to your new team. Especially your softer skills that some of your peers may not. Communication, collaboration and initiative are all key! You can demonstrate this through explaining how you all action these through part time roles, volunteering and sporting / cultural activities.

2. Put time into your cover letter

Don’t copy and paste with changing the company name. Prospective employers see hundreds of those! And chances are, you will likely forget to paste the wrong company name… your cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your writing ability. It also helps connect your genuine interests and longer-term goals with your understanding of the company. The ideal graduate role or internship will see you with the company long term. They’re investing in you and it is the perfect foundation to set you up to progress within the organisation. Also talk about your connection to the location (family, friends, nightlife, sport…) and why you can see yourself being settled there long term.

3. Utilise LinkedIn and networking

Connect on LinkedIn with employees, HR professionals and managers within the companies you’re applying to. Follow their social media, turn up to job fairs and participate in events sponsored by industry companies. Make yourself known! Your applications will resonate if they’re being read by the same people or you can then refer to those people in your application, demonstrating a genuine interest and knowledge that others won’t be able to – another way of standing out.

Bonus tip!

Be proactive in finding opportunities. Utilise SEEK, other job boards and company career pages. Even better – try to contact companies directly through email, phone or handing your application into reception in person. Whatever you do, keep track of where you’ve applied! There are some helpful 3rd parties also – check out Lewis Wall‘s awesome initiative: www.thestudenthand.com / The Student Hand