As a fresh graduate, entering the job market can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. But with the right approach and preparation, you can increase your chances of landing a graduate job that kick-starts a successful and meaningful career.
In this guide, we’ll share some tips and advice to help you as a fresh graduate to navigate the job search process and stand out to potential employers.
What does the term fresh graduate mean?
A fresh graduate is a person who has recently completed their studies and has earned a university degree. They are typically new to the workforce and have little or no work experience in their field of study. Fresh graduates are often seeking employment opportunities to start their careers and gain practical experience in their chosen field or profession.
7 Tips for Success as a fresh graduate
- Don’t apply for jobs willy-nilly – first identify the graduate role that is best suited to you and tailor your job search, CV and cover letter accordingly.
- Show Evidence of essential employability skills – demonstrate essential competency skills on your CV and interviews.
- Remember: Your first job doesn’t have to be your ideal job – don’t turn down interviews, every interview is good practice. Also, your first job does not need to be perfect. Gain experience, refine your skills then look for another job once you’ve got experience under your belt.
- Treat your job search like a full-time job – Aim to send off four or five applications every day – but make sure those applications are relevant to your experience and talents.
- Brush up on your digital skills – as more companies digitally transform, having a digital skillset will be desirable.
- Prepare for video interviews – many companies are continuing to host their interviews online. Get some interview coaching to brush up on this essential skill. Learn the STAR technique and practice using the framework to answer competency-based questions.
- Put yourself in the interviewer’s shoes – Employers obviously wish to hire someone they believe will be able to do the job. But, above that, they will want someone who can demonstrate that they are keen to work with them; someone who definitely wants the job.
Why you might struggle to find a job as a fresh graduate
You Have No Idea What Career Is Right for You
It’s not uncommon to feel lost when it comes to choosing a career path. After all, there are so many options available, and it can be overwhelming to try and figure out which one is right for you. The key is to explore your options and try different things. Consider internships, volunteering or work experience opportunities to gain exposure to different industries and job roles. Attend career fairs and networking events to speak with professionals and gain insight into what they do. By exploring your options, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and find a career path that’s right for you.
You Lack Work Experience
Employers often look for candidates with work experience, which can be a challenge for graduates who are just starting out. However, there are ways to gain experience and enhance your CV. Consider internships, volunteering, or part-time work to gain experience and develop transferable skills. Don’t underestimate the value of extra-curricular activities, such as clubs or societies, as they can also demonstrate your skills and interests.
Your CV is Failing to Get You Interviews
Your CV is your first impression to potential employers, so it’s important to make it count. Make sure your CV is tailored to the job you’re applying for and highlights your relevant skills and experience. Use active language and quantify your achievements, such as the amount of money you’ve raised for a company or charity. Finally, proofread your CV carefully to ensure there are no errors or typos.
You Keep Failing Interviews
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation, you can increase your chances of success. Research the company and the role thoroughly and prepare answers to common interview questions. Consider practising with a friend or family member, or record yourself to identify areas where you need to improve. Finally, make sure you dress appropriately and arrive on time.
Starting your career journey as a graduate may be challenging, but by overcoming common obstacles, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes and face rejection but don’t let that deter you from pursuing your dreams. Stay focused, work hard, and take advantage of the resources available to you. With persistence and determination, you can achieve your career goals.
What can I do if I am a fresh graduate, but can’t find a job?
Are you a recent graduate struggling to secure a job in your field? Look no further than our expert graduate career coaching services. As the UK’s leading provider, we have successfully guided over 5000 graduates towards landing their dream job and advancing their career development. Don’t let the competitive job market hold you back – invest in yourself and let our team of experienced coaches help you reach your full potential.
Frequently Asked Questions by Fresh Graduates
Here are some commonly asked questions that fresh graduates ask:
Should I put “fresh graduate” on my resume/CV?
It’s not necessary to include the term “fresh graduate” on your resume/CV. However, you should highlight your educational history and any relevant coursework or academic achievements that demonstrate your qualifications for the job you are applying for.
You can also include any internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities that are related to your field of study and show your skills and abilities. Additionally, make sure to emphasise your willingness to learn and your enthusiasm for the job and the industry.
The term “fresh graduate” does not inherently have a negative connotation. It simply refers to someone who has recently graduated from a university or college and is now seeking employment or other opportunities.
However, some people may perceive the term as being associated with inexperience or a lack of practical knowledge, especially in fields that require significant on-the-job training or practical skills. In some contexts, using a more specific term like “entry-level professional” or “recent graduate” may be preferred to avoid any potential negative connotations.
What can I say instead of fresh graduate?
There are several alternatives you could use instead of “fresh graduate,” depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey:
- Recent graduate
- New graduate
- Entry-level professional
- Junior professional
How long are you considered a fresh graduate?
The exact timeframe may vary depending on the context and industry, but generally, it can refer to individuals who have graduated within the past year or so. After that, they may be referred to as a “recent graduate” or simply as a professional in their chosen field. It’s important to note, however, that the specific terminology used can vary depending on the organisation and the industry in question.
What do you write on LinkedIn if you are a fresh graduate?
If you are a fresh graduate and looking to create a LinkedIn profile, there are several things you can include in your profile to showcase your education, skills, and experience. Here are some suggestions:
Headline: Use your headline to highlight your degree and any relevant experience or skills. For example, “Recent marketing graduate with experience in social media management.”
About section: In your summary section, provide a brief overview of your background, including your education, any relevant coursework, internships, or volunteer work. Highlight your strengths, skills, and interests and explain what you hope to achieve in your career.
Education section: List your degree and any relevant coursework or academic achievements. You can also include any relevant student organisations or extracurricular activities.
Experience section: If you have relevant work experience, list it in the experience section. If you don’t have much experience, you can still list any internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs that are relevant to your career goals.
Skills section: List your skills, including any software or technical skills, languages, or other relevant abilities.
Recommendations: Ask professors, mentors, or former employers to provide recommendations that speak to your skills and abilities.
How do you write an email for a job as a fresh graduate?
When writing an email for a job as a fresh graduate, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
Subject line: Your subject line should be clear and concise. Make sure to include the position you are applying for and your name. For example, “Application for ABC – [Your Name]”.
Salutation: Address the recipient by their name if possible, or use a general greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager” if you don’t have a name.
Introduction: Start your email by introducing yourself and explaining why you are interested in the position. Mention any relevant skills or experience you have that make you a good fit for the job.
Body: In the body of your email, elaborate on your skills and experience, highlighting any relevant coursework, internships, or extracurricular activities. You can also mention any professional organisations you belong to or any awards or honours you have received.
Closing: End your email by thanking the recipient for considering your application and expressing your enthusiasm for the position. Include your contact information and invite the recipient to contact you if they need any further information or to schedule an interview.
Signature/sign off: Use a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your full name.
Example:
Subject: Application for the Graduate Finance Assistant position – [Your name]
Dear [Insert Hiring Manager’s name],
I am writing to apply for the Graduate Finance assistant position at [Insert company name]. As a recent Accounting and Finance graduate with experience in banking and finance, I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the position.
During my studies, I completed an internship at [Insert company], where I was responsible for supporting with financial reporting and analysis, preparing banks and credit issues and executing ad-hoc admin tasks throughout the day.
I am excited about the opportunity to join the team at [Insert company name] and contribute to the finance team.
Thank you for considering my application. Please find my CV attached for your review. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your mobile number]
How do you negotiate a higher salary via email as a fresh graduate?
Negotiating a higher salary can be a challenging task for anyone, but as a fresh graduate, it’s important to approach the situation with confidence and professionalism. Here’s an example of an email you could use to negotiate a higher salary as a fresh graduate:
Subject: Request for Higher Salary Offer
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am thrilled to have received an offer to join your team as a Graduate Marketing Executive at Acme Inc. After careful consideration, I would like to request a higher salary offer than the amount listed in the original job offer.
My skills, education, and experience make me a valuable asset to your team. During my studies, I gained experience in Digital Marketing. Additionally, my previous internship at ABC provided me with hands-on experience in [insert relevant experience or skills].
While I appreciate the initial offer, I have researched the industry standards and have found that my qualifications and experience align with a higher salary range. I am confident that I can bring significant value to the team and believe that a higher salary offer would reflect my qualifications and potential contributions.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter and I am open to further discussion.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Summary
Landing a graduate job as a fresh graduate requires a combination of hard work, determination, and preparation. By identifying your career goals, building your work experience, tailoring your job applications, preparing for job interviews, and staying positive and persistent, you can increase your chances of finding a job that aligns with your aspirations and sets you on a path to success.
Featured image: RODNAE Productions
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