Category: Job Applications

The holidays are here, bringing loads of happiness, celebrations, and quality time with loved ones. If you’ve just graduated, you might feel tempted to hit pause on the job hunt for a while and just soak in the festive spirit. After all, isn’t everyone too busy with holiday festivities to think about hiring? Contrary to popular belief, the holiday season can be an excellent time to make significant progress in your job search. Here’s how you can jingle all the way to your career goals.

The Hidden Opportunities of the Festive Season

1. Holiday Networking: Christmas parties, family gatherings, and end-of-year events are rife with networking opportunities. You never know who might know someone hiring in your field. Be ready with your elevator pitch and a positive attitude.
   
2. Seasonal Jobs: Many industries hire temporary staff during the holidays. This is an excellent chance to gain experience, get your foot in the door, and demonstrate your worth. Your seasonal job may lead to more permanent positions.
   
3. Freelance Gigs: Many professionals take holidays, creating a need for freelancers to fill temporary vacancies. Look for freelancing opportunities that align with your skills and could lead to extensive networks or even full-time positions.

Job search tips for the festive season: 

• Think of jazzing up your CV and cover letter a bit like decking the halls for the holidays! Make sure they’re fresh, up-to-date, and polished, with no mistakes. Tailor them perfectly to the jobs you’re eyeing, making sure they’re as appealing as a well-decorated tree!
  
• Revamp Your Professional Presence: Use this time to add a fresh touch to your CV, LinkedIn profile, or personal website. A sprinkle of creativity and an updated professional outlook can make your profile stand out, catching the eyes of potential employers.
  
• Holiday Spirit in Communication: While maintaining professionalism, it’s okay to sprinkle a little festive cheer in your emails or communications. A simple “Happy Holidays” can set a warm and positive tone.
  
• The Gift of Gratitude: Show appreciation to the people who have supported you in your career journey. A simple thank you note can go a long way in nurturing professional relationships that can be crucial in your job search.
  

Setting Realistic Expectations and Goals

Remember that while the festive season can provide various opportunities, many professionals might be winding down for the year. Responses may be slower, but that doesn’t mean they are non-existent. Set clear and achievable goals for your job search during this time.

With that said, stay alert! Even during the festive slowdown, keep an eye on job listings. Companies might post new job openings in preparation for the new year, and being timely in your applications could give you an advantage.

Embrace the Festive Break for Personal Development

• Online Courses: Use the holiday downtime to upskill. There are plenty of online courses available – some even for free – that can boost your employability. Participate in online courses or workshops. Gifting yourself the asset of a new skill or knowledge could be the key to unlocking doors to new career opportunities.
  
• Read Widely and extensively: Dive into industry journals, insightful biographies, or motivational books that can provide new perspectives on your chosen career.
  
• Festive volunteering: Embrace the spirit of the season by volunteering. It’s an opportunity to make a difference, build new connections, and enhance your resume, showcasing a commitment to community and values.
  

Stay Motivated and Positive and Don’t forget to Enjoy the holidays

• The holiday season, full of joy and optimism, is a wonderful time to keep your motivation alive. Picture your goals, stick to a routine, and discover ways to stay cheerful. And don’t forget, the new year is just around the corner, promising a fresh start and a world of new chances.
• Set specific job-search goals for each day or week. Knowing your objectives will allow you to manage your time effectively, ensuring you have ample opportunity to partake in festive activities as well.
• Automate Your Job Search by Utilising job search engines and platforms that allow you to set alerts for specific roles. This way, you’ll receive relevant job listings directly to your inbox, saving you time and effort. 
• The holidays, while joyful, can also bring their own stress, and looking for a job on top of that can feel pretty overwhelming. Try to find some peace amidst the chaos—maybe through meditation, getting some exercise, or just chilling with the people you love. Keeping a positive mindset isn’t just nice, it’s a game-changer in navigating this busy season. 

Prepare for next year! 

Set New Year Goals – Utilise this period to set clear, achievable career goals for the upcoming year. Having a strategic plan will give your job search a sense of direction and purpose.

Practice and Polish Interview Skills – Dedicate time to practice answering common interview questions. Consider doing mock interviews to improve your confidence and performance.

Research – Use the holiday downtime for comprehensive research. Dive deep into understanding the companies you wish to apply to, their culture, and recent developments, preparing you for future interviews and interactions. 

Consult a Career Coach – Consider seeking advice from career coaches. Their guidance can provide new perspectives and strategies to enhance your job search.

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to sip cocoa by the fire and delay the job search until the new year, embracing the festive season can give you a head start. With a mix of networking, personal development, and a dash of holiday spirit, you can jingle all the way to your career goals. So, deck the halls and your CV, and dive into the festive job search with enthusiasm!

Are you a graduate looking to give your career a festive boost? Reach out to us for tailored career coaching sessions that can guide you through the holiday season and beyond. Remember, every step you take now is a jingle closer to your dream job. Happy Holidays!

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So you’ve been using your budgeting skills all throughout college, and now you’re ready to build your wealth by entering the workforce. Fair warning: it’s a competitive world out there! That’s why creating a compelling graduate CV is truly the first step toward landing your dream job after completing your studies. 

Crafting an impressive CV is vital to catching the eye of potential employers. This article is designed to walk you through the process of effectively showcasing your skills and achievements, helping your CV shine as you embark on your job search journey.

Crafting a Standout CV: Where to Begin

Start with a Strong Personal Statement

Your personal statement is the first section of your CV, and it should grab the reader’s attention. Use it to briefly introduce yourself, state your career goals, and highlight what makes you unique.

Tailor Your CV for Each Job Application 

Personalise your CV for every job application. Emphasise the skills and accomplishments that align with the specific job requirements.

Showcasing Your Educational Achievements

Highlight Your Academic Excellence 

List your academic qualifications prominently, including your degree, university, and graduation date. Mention any honours or awards you received during your studies.

Relevant Coursework 

Include a section that highlights coursework relevant to the job you’re applying for. This indicates your subject-matter knowledge and proficiency.

The Power of Internships and Work Experience

Internships and Work Experience

Describe any internships or work experience you’ve gained during your studies. Use action verbs to detail your responsibilities and accomplishments in these roles.

Quantify Your Achievements 

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with specific numbers. For example, mention how you increased sales by 20% during your internship.

Showcasing Your Skills

Create a Skills Section

When constructing your skills section in your graduate CV, keep it concise and impactful with these tips:

• Categorise Wisely: Organise skills into relevant categories like “Technical,” “Soft,” and “Language Proficiency” for clarity.
• Prioritise Relevance: Highlight skills most pertinent to the job you’re targeting, showcasing your suitability. 
• Offer Real-World Context: Demonstrate your skills by providing brief, practical examples of how you’ve applied them.
• Quantify When Possible: Give employers a sense of your proficiency by quantifying your skills, especially in technical areas.
• Emphasise Soft Skills: Soft skills like communication and teamwork matter; include them to stand out.
• Be Specific and Honest: Specify your skill levels honestly (basic, intermediate, advanced), avoiding exaggeration.
• Keep It Brief: Avoid overwhelming the reader with an exhaustive list. Concentrate on your most relevant and impressive skills.
• Stay Updated: Regularly update this section to reflect your evolving skills and certifications.

Use Keywords

Incorporate relevant keywords from the job description to make your CV more appealing to applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Emphasising Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular Involvement

Highlight your participation in clubs, organisations, or volunteer work that demonstrates leadership, teamwork, or other valuable skills.

Leadership Roles 

If you held leadership positions in any extracurricular activities, describe your responsibilities and the impact you made.

Crafting an Eye-Catching Design

Design Matters

A well-organised and visually appealing CV is more likely to catch the eye of a recruiter. Use a clean and professional format.

Use Bullet Points

Present information in a concise and easy-to-read format. Listing accomplishments and responsibilities is more effective when done in bullet points.

The Importance of Proofreading

Proofread Carefully

You could give the wrong impression if your CV is filled with errors. Proofread your document multiple times to ensure it’s free from typos and grammatical mistakes. 

Seek Feedback

Ask a friend or mentor to review your CV and provide constructive feedback. Fresh eyes can point out the mistakes you might have missed.

Additional Tips for a Standout Graduate CV

• Mention Relevant Certifications: If you hold any certifications or licences relevant to your field, make sure to include them. Certifications can prove your dedication to professional development.
• Create an Online Portfolio: In today’s digital age, having an online portfolio can set you apart. Include a link to your portfolio showcasing projects, articles, or presentations that demonstrate your expertise.
• Network and Seek Recommendations: Reach out to professors, mentors, or colleagues for recommendations. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for gathering endorsements, which can add credibility to your CV.
• Use Action Words: Begin bullet points with action verbs to describe your accomplishments. Words like “achieved,” “managed,” and “implemented” convey a sense of proactivity.
• Quantify Achievements: When possible, use metrics to quantify your success. For instance, mention how you increased website traffic by 30% or completed a project ahead of schedule.
• Stay Consistent with Formatting: Maintain consistency in formatting throughout your CV. Use the same font, bullet point style, and heading format to ensure a polished and professional look.

Create a CV That Will Stand Out!  

Your graduate CV is your opportunity to stand out and create a lasting impact on potential employers. By following the tips and techniques we’ve outlined above, you can effectively emphasise your skills and accomplishments, greatly improving your odds of securing your desired job.

Keep in mind that your CV isn’t merely a document; it shows what you can do and helps you get a good job. So, take time and create a CV that makes you stand out!

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Feeling like the digital age has simply given you more opportunities to miss out on job opportunities? Fret not. Whether you’re a fresh grad or fancying a switch-up, the hunt can be smoother, quicker, and more fruitful than you think, as you will see below.

1. Networking (yes, it’s still a thing)

You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth saying again. While LinkedIn is a modern marvel, don’t shy away from good old face-to-face events, workshops, and seminars. You never know who knows someone who knows someone…

2. Use a VPN to Widen the Net

With this tool, not only can you keep your online searches secure, but you can also unlock geo-restricted job boards and websites because with a VPN you will know immediately how to change your IP address on Windows 10 and other platforms. Want that dream job in Japan? Set your VPN to Tokyo and dive into local opportunities you wouldn’t usually see.

3. Tidy up Social Media

Hiring managers love a little peek. Make sure your profiles present you in a positive light, or tweak your privacy settings. No one needs to see those holiday snaps from Magaluf in 2009.

4. Specialised Job Boards

Sure, you’ve tried the big ones – Indeed, Monster, Reed. But there are a plethora of niche job boards out there specific to industries or roles. Get digging!

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5. Engage in Online Communities

Join forums, Facebook groups or even Reddit communities related to your field. Not only will you learn heaps, but folks often share job openings too, so it could put you on to the next big thing to help your career thrive. It’s lots of fun too!

6. The ‘Hidden’ Job Market

Sometimes, it’s not about the vacancies listed but the ones that aren’t. Speculative applications can be gold. Do your research, find a company you adore, and send over a dazzling CV and cover letter.

7. Temping or Internships

These might not be the dream permanent roles, but they’re doorways. Plus, companies often offer full-time positions to their temps or interns first. So, they are still very much a part of the job search equation.

8. University Alumni Networks

These aren’t just for reminiscing about your uni days. Universities often have career services and networks to help their graduates find fulfilling roles, so if you haven’t already hit yours up, you definitely should in the near future.

9. Go Local

Instead of just focusing on national job search websites, check out local newspapers, community boards, and regional websites. You’d be surprised at what you might find out there.

10. Freelance Platforms

Websites like Upwork or Freelancer don’t just offer freelance gigs. Occasionally, companies list full-time roles there too, so it is always worth taking a look and maybe setting up an alert or two in your niche. You just never know.

Equipped with these tricks, you’re poised to uncover a world of opportunities you might’ve otherwise missed. Jump in, be persistent, and remember – every no brings you closer to that elated yes!

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A Curriculum Vitae or CV is a formal document that is crafted by a job seeker and evaluated by an employer. It showcases an applicant’s unique strengths and abilities that can add value to the job.

But it is a complex document that requires specific writing styles, error-free writing, and whatnot. So, for that reason, we are going to share some simple techniques with you that can potentially increase your chances of you landing a job.

Before sharing these excellent skills with you, we are going to explain the importance and role of the CV in a job application. This will help you grasp the idea of how significant of an impact this brief document can have.

Importance of CV in Landing a Job

On the surface, a CV might look like a simple 1–2-page document. But it is much more than that. Most workplaces follow the traditional hiring method of evaluating a CV first and then calling for an interview. 

In other words, if your CV is not up to par, you won’t make it to the interview stage. Also, effective CVs can make your interview go smoothly as well. So, to put it simply, a CV is the basic requirement for grabbing a job you like. 

And this is the reason why such a document needs to be created perfectly. Since it is a relatively difficult task, we created this list of tips that will make the process easier.

Tips for Writing a CV

After a deep and careful analysis, we think these 7 are the most effective CV writing tips.  

1. Adjust Your CV According to the Job Description

Generally, a CV is an extensive document covering all your past qualifications and capabilities. However, there is a significant chance that some of your qualities are only relevant to specific jobs.

For example, if you applied to both a managerial position and an employee position, then you have to create different CVs for them. Skills like leadership abilities and communication skills are not that relevant for the employee position but need to be mentioned in the CV for the manager job. 

2. Select the Right Layout for Your CV

There is no universal CV template or format that can work for every job possible. You need to determine this format by yourself. You just have to keep the job requirement in mind when doing so. 

For example, if you are applying for a teaching job, your academic qualifications must be mentioned as early as possible. On the other hand, a job in firms and large companies value previous experience and qualifications more than academic achievements.

3. Keep all the Information Concise

In order to retain the attention of your employer, you need to convey information as concisely as possible. This applies especially in the cover letter of the CV. In this letter, you have to write a few passages about how you are of value.

If you use complex and extensive sentences in this section, the employer might disregard your application as a whole. They often have to review a number of different applications and don’t have the time to analyze your CV deeply.

That’s why you should use short sentences and simple words.

4. Mention All your Abilities and Achievements

In a CV, you need to showcase your expertise to the maximum. However, you need to ensure that the skills you mention are valuable to the job. 

Other than that, if your qualification or skill is remotely related and can be useful to the job, you should add it. 

5. Do Not Provide False Information

Don’t think of your CV as a ticket to get an interview. This will get you nowhere. You are wrong if you think you can impress the employer by providing false information about yourself. 

This is because even if you reach the interview stage, further progression will become impossible. When the job provider verifies information from the CV, you will get caught and rejected on the spot. That’s why you should provide authentic information.

6. Check for Grammar and Other Mistakes

Grammatical and other writing flaws can negatively impact the job employer’s perception of you. That’s why you need to proofread your CV and correct grammar mistakes if you find any. 

These grammar mistakes may include spelling errors, incorrect verb usage, punctuation mistakes and much more. However, finding these errors can sometimes be difficult to do. So, to save some time, you can use a free grammar checker to detect mistakes instantly.

Once you remove grammar errors from your CV, its quality will increase considerably. 

7. Ask Other People to Proofread Your CV

By letting people you trust proofread your CV, they can point out grammatical errors, poor writing and spot problems with your CV you may have missed. 

People you should ask for help include family, teachers, friends who have already written CVs, or even a career coach. 

Conclusion

Writing a CV to grab the attention of a job provider is a technical task. You need to keep a number of different things on your checklist when creating such a crucial document. However, the tips listed above can be followed to create a stunning CV that is much more likely to help you get the job you have been longing for. 

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Job hunting can be an emotional roller coaster with its fair share of highs and lows. One of the most challenging aspects is dealing with job rejection, as it can leave you feeling deflated and questioning your self-worth. However, it’s crucial to remember that job rejection is a common experience and does not define your value as a person. In this blog post, we’ll explore some strategies to help you navigate through job rejection without allowing it to negatively impact your self-esteem. So, let’s delve into the ways you can bounce back, grow, and maintain your confidence during your job search. 

1: Acknowledge Your Feelings of low self-esteem

Receiving a job rejection can trigger a wide range of emotions, including disappointment, frustration, and even self-doubt. It’s important to allow yourself to experience these feelings and acknowledge them without judgment. 

Remember – it’s perfectly normal to be upset after being turned down for a job you wanted. Give yourself permission to process these emotions and take the time you need to heal before moving forward. Also, remember that you are not alone. Hunting for a new role takes its toll on most people at some point in their life.

2: Separate Rejection from Personal Worth

It’s crucial to separate job rejection from your self-worth. Remember that a job rejection is not a reflection of your value as an individual, but rather a specific outcome based on a combination of factors, including the needs of the employer and the competition in the job market. Recognize that rejection is a natural part of the job search process and that it happens to everyone at some point in their careers.

Don’t take rejection feedback personally. Whilst it usually highlights a weakness or area of improvement, it does not mean that you do not have the potential. This brings us nicely to our next point…

3: Learn, Grow and Keep Moving Forward 

Feedback on why you were rejected is incredibly valuable. Adopt a growth mindset and realise that whilst you may lack in a particular skill at the moment, it doesn’t mean that you are bad at it. Instead, create a plan of action to improve in that area. 

If you have received several rejections with little or no feedback, get into the habit of asking for feedback where possible, or take some time to deeply reflect on your skills and interview performance. 

Instead of dwelling on the rejection, try to shift your focus towards personal growth and learning from the experience. Take the opportunity to assess your skills, qualifications, and interview performance objectively. Consider seeking feedback from the employer or trusted mentors to understand areas for improvement. Embrace the rejection as a chance to refine your job search strategy and enhance your future prospects.

4: Acknowledge and Celebrate Your Accomplishments

Don’t allow a job rejection to overshadow your achievements. Take a moment to reflect on your accomplishments, skills, and previous successes. Make a list of your strengths and remind yourself of the unique value you bring to the table. As you progress through your job search, celebrate even the small wins such as passing online tests and getting invited to interviews. These are all positive steps and interactions that will take you a step closer to getting your dream job. 

Recognising and celebrating your accomplishments can help restore your self-esteem and provide a positive perspective during the job search process. 

5: Seek Support and Maintain a Support Network

During challenging times, it’s essential to lean on your support network for encouragement and motivation. 

Share your experience with a select set of friends, family, or mentors who can provide a listening ear, empathetic advice, or even contacts that can aid you in your job search. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals will help you stay resilient and maintain a healthy sense of self-worth. 

You might like to consider setting up regular calls with people in your network who are also in the process of searching for a job. 

If you are sending out several job applications with little success, consider getting a career coach. Here at Graduate Coach, we have helped over 5000 students and graduates all over the world to get good jobs. We can help you with CVs, interview coaching, job applications networking and more. If you’d like support, send s a copy of your CV via our contact form. 

6: Practice Self-Care and Self-love 

Job rejection can be emotionally draining, so it’s crucial to prioritise your self-care. Take time to engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax. This could include exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in mindfulness practices such as meditation, having a spa day or journaling. By nurturing your physical and emotional well-being, you’ll be better equipped to handle setbacks and maintain a positive outlook. Be kind to yourself! 

7: Stay Persistent and Adapt to the Changing Job Market

Remember that finding the right job is a journey, and rejection is just a temporary setback. 

Stay persistent in your job search efforts and be open to adapting your approach when necessary. 

With advances in technology, the world of work is drastically changing. Be prepared to adapt to the changes in demand in the job market. Explore new industries, enhance your skills through training or certifications, or consider networking opportunities that may lead to unexpected job prospects. Keep your eye on the long-term goals and maintain a growth mindset.

Summary

Job rejection can be a challenging experience, but it doesn’t have to define your self-esteem. By acknowledging your feelings, separating rejection from personal worth, learning from the experience, celebrating your accomplishments, maintaining a support network, practising self-care, and staying persistent, you can navigate through job rejection with resilience and maintain a healthy sense of self-esteem. 

Your worth extends beyond any job opportunity, and with perseverance, the right opportunity will come your way. Keep your head up and believe in yourself!

Remember, support is available – reach out to us here at Graduate Coach to find out how we can help you. 

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Job hunting can be an emotional rollercoaster. You put in hours of effort crafting the perfect CV, researching the company, and preparing for interviews. With each application, you eagerly await a response, hoping for an opportunity to prove yourself. But sometimes, instead of a job offer, you receive the dreaded rejection email. It’s a blow to your confidence and can lead to a flood of emotions. It’s not uncommon to shed a few tears when faced with rejection, but the question remains: is it normal to cry after a job rejection?

The Emotional Impact of Job Rejection

Job rejection can trigger a range of emotions, and it’s important to acknowledge and understand these feelings. After investing so much time and energy into the application process, receiving a rejection can leave you feeling disappointed, frustrated, and even heartbroken. It’s natural to feel a sense of loss and to question your abilities and self-worth. Searching for a job is a journey filled with many ups and downs and a range of emotions that can sometimes be difficult to process. 

If you are reading this today because you are or were crying due to a job rejection, it means that you deeply care about landing a good job at a good company, and this particular opportunity meant a lot to you. Maybe you feel that the role could have transformed your life for the better or helped you to grow and develop. 

Remember that every cloud has a silver lining and you can use your job search to learn new ways to handle your emotions and to grow in resilience and strength. You can even shift your mindset from focusing on the emotional impact to a practical/ action-based one. This will allow you to embrace job rejections and the learnings gained from them to continually improve and develop until you land your next role. 

The Pressure of Society’s Expectations

In today’s society, there is often an unspoken expectation of continued success and advancement in one’s career. We are surrounded by stories of people achieving great things and making significant strides in their professional lives. You only need to log in to LinkedIn to seemingly see members of your network celebrating new job opportunities and promotions. This societal pressure can intensify the emotional impact of job rejection. It’s easy to feel like a failure or compare yourself to others who seem to be effortlessly excelling in their careers. 

Not everyone’s career can be depicted by a straight-line upward trajectory. That’s ok. As long as you are growing and developing your skill set and working towards your own career goals. During this time of searching for a job, try to mindfully focus on your career goals instead of societal expectations. 

The Vulnerability of Job Seeking

Job hunting requires you to put yourself out there, exposing your skills, experiences, and aspirations to potential employers. This vulnerability can make job rejection feel like a personal attack, even though it often has nothing to do with your worth as an individual. The feeling of not being good enough for a role that you really want or a company you’d love to work for can be really upsetting. 

 It’s essential to remind yourself that rejection is a common part of the job search process and does not define your abilities or potential. 

Processing Your Emotions

Crying after a job rejection is a natural response to the emotional weight that comes with it. It can be a way to release pent-up frustration, disappointment, and stress. Shedding tears allows you to acknowledge and process your emotions, providing a sense of relief and catharsis. Bottling up your feelings may prolong the healing process and make it harder to move forward. 

Seeking Support

Job rejection can leave you feeling disheartened and even frustrated, but it’s important to remember that you’re not the only one going through this experience. Reach out to your support system, whether it’s friends, family, or mentors. Talking about your feelings and seeking support can help validate your emotions and provide a fresh perspective. Surrounding yourself with people who understand and empathise with your situation can make the healing process easier.

Getting career coaching can be incredibly beneficial when navigating the complexities of professional growth and development. A career coach is a trained professional who can provide guidance, support, and expertise in helping you make informed career decisions. They can help you gain clarity on your goals, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and create a strategic plan to achieve your desired career outcomes. A career coach can also assist in developing essential skills such as resume writing, interview preparation, and networking. They offer an objective perspective and constructive feedback, helping you overcome obstacles and maximize your potential. With their expertise and support, a career coach can provide the guidance and motivation you need to accelerate your career and achieve long-term success.

Embracing Resilience and Growth

After allowing yourself to process the disappointment, it’s time to focus on resilience and personal growth. Job rejections can be valuable learning experiences. Take the time to reflect on what went well during the application process and areas where you can improve. Use the feedback from the rejection, if provided, to refine your approach for future applications. Remember, rejection is not a reflection of your worth but an opportunity to grow and become stronger.

Maintaining a Positive Mindset

It’s essential to maintain a positive mindset throughout your job search journey. Celebrate small victories, such as getting interviews or positive feedback, and remind yourself that rejection is a part of the process. Stay motivated by setting realistic goals and focusing on continuous self-improvement. 

Surround yourself with positive influences, whether through inspirational books, podcasts, or networking events. A positive mindset will help you persevere and ultimately find the right opportunity.

A growth mindset can be immensely helpful in dealing with the emotions related to your job search. A growth mindset is a belief that one’s abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, effort, and a willingness to learn. When facing the ups and downs of the job search process, a growth mindset can provide a positive framework for handling emotions

Is It Normal to Cry After a Job Rejection?

In the face of job rejection, it’s completely normal to cry and experience a range of emotions. Remember that your feelings are valid, and it’s essential to acknowledge and process them. Seek support from your loved ones and use the experience as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection. With resilience, a positive mindset, and continued effort, you will find a job that aligns with your skills and aspirations. Keep moving forward, and success will come your way! 

Don’t suffer in silence, if your job search is taking a toll on you emotionally, get in touch with us via our contact form. We can help you with our career coaching programmes. We will get back to you letting you know how we can help. If you are concerned about your mental health, help and support are available to you at any time.

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It’s truly heartbreaking to see your child upset or disappointed after their application for a graduate job that they really wanted gets rejected. It is even harder to see your child’s confidence and self-esteem decline with subsequent rejections. Ultimately you want your child to get a good job that offers plentiful opportunities and enjoyable experiences. However, unfortunately landing that job straight out of university is not always easy. 

In this post, we share some top tips and advice on how to comfort your son or daughter when they get rejected from a graduate role they really wanted or when they keep getting rejected after their interviews. 

1: Validate their feelings of sadness and disappointment 

It’s important to let your child know that it’s okay to feel disappointed or upset after getting rejected from a job interview. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know that it’s normal and reasonable to feel this way. You could say something like, “I’m sorry to hear that you didn’t get the job, I know how much you wanted it. It’s understandable that you’re feeling upset about the outcome.” Console them with a hug or a pat on the shoulder to show your support. 

You’ve likely experienced being rejected for a job you really wanted several times in your career. Therefore, you know just how disappointing and discouraging it can be. You might be tempted to say to your son or daughter not to worry because another opportunity, perhaps an even better one will come along because it will. However, having their current feelings validated may offer some comfort whilst they process this particular rejection. 

2: Encourage your child to reflect on their application process and talk about what they could have done better 

Job rejections can feel embarrassing. Even though they are a normal part of the job application process, your son or daughter shouldn’t feel ashamed of them. 

Encourage your child to talk about their experience and what they’re feeling. Listen attentively and empathize with their situation. This can help them to feel heard and understood, and it can also help them process their current emotions.

Talking may also prompt them to reflect on their job application or interview performance. Doing so may help them to recognise where they could have done better so that they can take it on board for the future. 

Comfort your son or daughter by reassuring them that with each rejected application they are getting a step closer to their job offer. 

3: Help them see the bigger picture

It’s important to help your child understand that getting rejected from a job interview doesn’t define their worth or abilities. Encourage them to think about what they learned from the experience and how they can use that knowledge to improve. Remind them that there will be other opportunities and that this experience can help them grow and develop.

They may take comfort in knowing that when they land their dream graduate job, it may make much more sense to them why they were not quite the right fit for the role they have recently been rejected from. Furthermore, reassure them that getting their first job out of university will likely be the most challenging. Subsequent jobs will be easier to get due to having more experience and a clearer idea of their career goals and interests. 

4: Offer practical support

If your child is feeling down, offer practical support to help them feel better.

For example: 

Hire a career coach for them 

If your child:

• Does not know what graduate role is best for them
• Keeps getting rejections after interviews
• Struggles to articulate their skills
• Is not getting invited to interviews despite sending out applications

You may consider getting them a graduate career coach. Find out more about the signs your son or daughter needs support finding a job.

Book them in for some interview coaching sessions

Interview coaching will give your child a competitive edge when it comes to sending out applications and interviewing.

It will also set them up for a lifetime of interview success.

Contact our team of professional graduate coaches today! We can help your child to overcome the hurdles they are facing that are stopping them from landing a graduate role.

An action-oriented approach may be comforting and reassuring that their current situation can change for the better by adopting a growth mindset and a positive attitude to take steps to continuously learn and develop. 

5: Help them stay positive

During the graduate job search process, it might be difficult to stay positive at times. 

By remaining positive as their parent, your child may take comfort in knowing that you believe in them no matter what and that you know they will succeed, even if they struggle to believe it at times. 

If you start showing them that you are worried or even disappointed by their job rejections, it could have a very negative and discouraging impact on your child. 

Keep gently encouraging them to continue their graduate job search.

Remind them that setbacks are a natural part of life and that they can bounce back from this experience. Encourage them to keep working hard and pursuing their goals, even if it means facing rejection along the way. 

Conclusion

Getting rejected from a job interview can be tough for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for graduates. As a parent, you’ll naturally want to be supportive and empathetic during this time. Validate their feelings, encourage them to talk about their experience and most importantly, offer practical support.

Hiring a Graduate Coach will help, your child to bounce back from rejection and ultimately land a graduate-level job.

To get the ball rolling, send us a copy of your son or daughter’s CV via our contact form and our team will review it and get back to you ASAP with the next steps.

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One of the best ways for your CV or resume to stand out among the competition is through extra-curricular activities. They can not only showcase your personality and interests but also the skills you will use in employment. But what extra-curricular activities should you include? And how should you write about them?

Activities to include

Language learning

Learning a foreign language is a rewarding and fulfilling thing to do and is also something that is in demand in the job market, and it could set you apart from your competition. As well as being obviously important for a translator role, learning a second language gives you the ability to apply for remote jobs outside your native country, or even the potential to work B2B with overseas businesses.

By learning a second language, you’ll be able to demonstrate to employers that you are dedicated, have an interest in self-development and you’re culturally aware. But it also offers you the personal benefit of making travel easier and boosting your communication skills.

Tutoring

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Tutoring is a rewarding way to use your spare time, being a great supplement to your CV while also helping others to learn. You can join a formal school tutoring programme to help others in your year or share your knowledge with younger children to help them develop core skills in reading, writing or mathematics by volunteering at a school once a week.

Tutoring shows that you have great communication skills, that you enjoy working with other people and that you have specific expertise in a certain area. But it also shows a willingness to help others and to share your knowledge, which is a skill that hiring companies will really value, and will look especially good if you apply for a teaching role.

Volunteering

Volunteering is similar to tutoring in that it shows your willingness to use your time to help others, but it’s often related to a specific cause such as for a charity. Adding a volunteer position to your CV showcases your passion for the cause and shows you’re dedicated to your responsibilities. Recruiters like candidates who have carried out volunteering positions because it shows commitment, organisational skills and motivation, as well as a strong work ethic.

Sports

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Young people are often naturally interested in sports, so why not put that interest to use and join a club or a team? Many sports rely on teamwork, so it’s a great way to make friends and meet new people, plus it helps you to stay fit and healthy.

Playing sports requires dedication and motivation, something that employers love to see in their employees, and it also shows great time management skills in order for you to make practice sessions and events. It is especially useful to put on your CV if you happen to be a team captain for your sport, as it demonstrates your leadership and communication skills which are valuable to businesses.

Student Council

Many schools and colleges have a student council to represent their students and it can help you develop a broad range of skills that can transfer to the workplace. From leadership skills and public speaking to collaboration and organisational skills, being a member of the student council is a great way to boost your CV, showing you are willing to put yourself forward for a position of responsibility, even at a younger age.

When you join the student council, you develop problem solving skills and boost your ability to make decisions, as well as developing your active listening skills. You learn how to work well with other people, take on board different opinions and react rationally, and often learn event planning or fundraising experience.

Art

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Art is a hobby that may seem like it won’t add anything valuable to your CV, unless you’re striving for a career focused on it, but that’s not actually true. Creative thinking is a top skill that employers look for and spending your leisure time practicing art is the perfect way to develop creative thinking skills that you can take with you into the workplace.

It’s a great hobby to spark innovation and see things from a different perspective, which are excellent skills to bring to a business. Whether you join a club, run workshops for other aspiring artists, or simply work on your own projects, art can help you develop key creative skills.

University societies

There are so many different societies at University that you are guaranteed to find one based around something you enjoy, whether that is a sport, game, or any other leisure activity you like. Joining a society is useful for your CV as it shows employers you’re enthusiastic, with this being especially notable if the society you join is connected to the job you are applying for, such as being a part of the drama society applying for a job in a theatre.

There is also the chance to hold a position of responsibility within the society you join, such as treasurer or fundraiser.

Where should extracurricular activities be placed on a CV?

Extra-curricular activities should be written about on your CV, in a section after your introduction and an explanation of your key skills that make you a suitable candidate. You should focus on extra-curricular activities that demonstrate relevant skills, as this is more appealing to employers, and shows why you would be a good fit for the job.

Final thoughts

You may be planning ahead in readiness for joining the job market or you may be edging closer to applying for jobs and want to upgrade your CV to stand out – whatever your reasons, there’s never a bad time to consider ways you can make yourself a more employable individual. While many hobbies and extracurricular activities may seem, on the surface, to be just for fun, you might be surprised by the skills you’ll learn through these activities that employers are looking for. If you need inspiration, take a look at a sample CV.

Featured Photo by picjumbo.com from Pexels