By Rogina Torabinejad
Whether graduation is just around the corner for you, or years away, finding a job once you graduate is an ever-looming prospect. Find out how you can be job-ready with these simple tips:
Learn a language
While it may not be necessary in certain fields, many employers find candidates who can speak two or three languages as having a skills above the rest. So whether you speak another language at home, or want to polish up your Year 10 French skills, having the ability to speak other languages on your resume will boost your chances of standing out to prospective employers and sealing your dream job.
Clean your digital footprint
In the 21st Century, employers are constantly looking online to find out more about their potential employees. Not only does this mean being wary of photos you’ve uploaded or are tagged in on Facebook, Instagram and the like, it also means setting up accounts on websites such as LinkedIn and portraying yourself as a professional individual online is highly recommended. Make sure you include skills and previous work experience on your profile, as well as an appropriate photo of yourself.
Polish your resume
Your first point of contact with an employer will almost always be your resume, so making sure it’s easy to read, free from grammatical and spelling errors, and presents you well is a must. Ask parents, relatives or friends to read over your resume and cover letter, and provide honest feedback to you. Alternatively (or even in conjunction), consider websites or professional services to proofread and edit your resume for you.
Know your way around a computer
While using electronic devices such as computers may come as second nature to you, it’s a good reminder that employers are always looking for candidates with computer skills. It’s great to show you know your way around basic applications such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel, as well as programs specific to your industry. These skills are especially important for jobs within the tech field.
Teamwork
Being able to work in a team is essential for almost every job, and shows that you are a reliable and easygoing candidate. Examples of teamwork experience can include being part of a sporting team, previous job experience (yes, this includes your part-time job at the local fast food outlet) and even volunteering experience.
A driver’s licence
It’s not an essential for every career, but having a driver’s licence and your own car is always a plus, as it shows you have a reliable method of transport to and from your place of employment.
Look to online job-seeking
There’s an abundance of job-seeking websites where employers have already posted advertisements describing the skills and abilities they’re looking for in an employee, as well as their contact details and even dropboxes for resumes to be uploaded. Put yourself out there!
Ask around and make connections
Often, the seemingly most difficult tasks are more simple than they first appear. While securing your dream job after graduating may not seem easy, it may be simpler than you think – start making connections and asking around to see where your connections can take you. You never know which relative, family friend or even neighbour may be offering exactly the job you’re looking for!
