You’ve graduated, and now you’re out in the world looking for a job. Where to start?
You might already have an idea of what you want to do. If not, you can take a career test which can help you to determine where your strengths and skills could be put to good use.
If you’ve got a job in mind, that’s great! Now, you need to find an opening.
It sounds straightforward, but it can be surprisingly tricky. The job market is competitive, so it helps to think outside the box.
Here are four ways to find your dream job.
Network online
If you haven’t already, set up a Linkedin account – pronto! Learn how to optimize your profile so that you stand out to potential employers and create the best possible impression.
You can use other social media platforms to network too. Find some companies, CEOs, or professionals that you admire, in the industry you want to enter. Follow them and engage with their posts. You never know when someone will post a job, or will put out information useful to your job hunt.
Here are the top companies by industry:
It’s vital that your social media profiles reflect who you are as a professional. Clean them up to prevent any embarrassment, and then put some effort into cultivating your personal brand.
You can do this by posting opinions, sharing relevant articles with your own thoughts, or even posting some work samples, if relevant.
Network in person
It might seem old fashioned, but attending industry networking events is still a crucial part of job hunting.
It’s great to get your face out there, and you may be able to make a connection with a hiring manager that is just impossible to do via a cover letter. Put your best foot forward and speak to as many people as you can.
Not everyone will have a job going, but you never know what opportunities they might able to share with you from their network. Events are also a great way to learn the ins and outs of the industry and to keep on top of current trends, making you more employable.
If you’re feeling particularly brave, you could even track down the relevant person on Linkedin, express an interest in working there, and ask if they would be happy to have a conversation. This won’t be relevant for every company, but with the right manager, this bold move could be looked upon positively. It certainly helps you to stand out!
Make use of your existing networks too. Friends, family, old colleagues, class-mates – let them all know the type of work you’re looking for, and they may just know someone looking for someone like you.
If you know someone who works in the industry, don’t be afraid to invite them for a coffee to pick their brains. Everyone started somewhere, and people like to help others who are just starting out.
Read also: How This Blog Boss Earns $10K/Month
Agencies
Have you ever used an agency before? Employment agencies can be a brilliant way to get your foot in the door. I
f you find it draining trawling job sites and selling yourself to employers, this can be a great option. There are different employment agencies, whether general or industry specific.
Typically, you’ll send the agency a CV and have a meeting to discuss your history and your career ambitions. They’ll give you a call when there’s a vacancy that might suit you, and often they’ll even help you prepare for the all-important interview.
Send out a speculative application.
Let’s say you’re following a company you admire on Linkedin. You might not see any job openings advertised right now, but there’s nothing to stop you from firing off a speculative cover letter and CV.
If handled correctly, this can show initiative and courage, as well as an obvious interest in the company. Even if they are not hiring right now, they may keep your application on file for future positions.
Employ yourself
You might need a job, but who said you need a boss? It’s something that not many people consider when looking for a job. But a growing number are actually turning to self-employment.
It’s certainly a bold move, and won’t be right for everyone’s circumstances. But if you have skills like writing, marketing, or website design, you could potentially go freelance.
If you have good business acumen and a winning idea, you could even try to set up your own business. It’s certainly not easy and there can be many pitfalls.
This option may also take some time before it becomes financially viable. But by thinking outside of the box, you can create your own opportunities and potentially become your own boss.