Get your foot in the door after graduation

After years of hard work, graduates look forward to entering the corporate world in their chosen professions.

Due to the countries high unemployment rate, a number of graduates are competing to get their foot in the door. However, there’s light at the end of the tunnel, according to education experts who advise with right approach graduates will be employed sooner than expected.

Head of the faculty of Humanities at The Independent Institute of Education, Sifiso Mnisi said there were a number of things you need to consider when launching your job search to ensure that you stand a better chance, Randburg Sun reports.

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Educators offer the following tips:

Change your mindset and get positive

• Looking for a job can be time-consuming, so start on a positive note and tell yourself that you already have a job. This step requires you to position yourself socially, chronologically and professionally to start thinking like an employed person.

“Create a schedule with a set number of hours a day to search for your dream position, sending out applications and making enquiries about job opportunities.

Due to the job search, inevitable rejections can be emotionally and psychologically exhausting. It’s important that graduates [must] not let it consume them. Take nothing at a personal level and try to enjoy the process which is also an important opportunity to learn and grow,” said Mnisi.

Update your CV and tailor it to each position

Independent Institute of Education head of the faculty of Commerce Fatima Razack said the first point of reference is your CV and cover letter.

“These are the first documents which potential employers will see and should show who you are suitable for their vacancy. Employers need to know that you are a good fit for their company, so your focus should be on convincing them that you are the best candidate for the job,” said Razack.

She said the CV should be tailored according to the requirements of each position and relevant to the field of work.

Create a strong online presence and professional brand

A strong online presence is crucial and graduates should actively manage their own profiles. Create Google alerts for specific vacancies and register your CV with reputable recruitment agencies, such as PNet and Bizcommunity.

Razack says prior to the interview, graduates should do their research on the company, the position and understand:

• What the company does to make money and what needs it’s trying to address in the market
• The organisational culture and leadership of the company
• What your contribution can make a positive difference in the company
• How the company positions itself in the mainstream and on social media
• How the company positions itself in the mainstream and on social media

Don’t stand still

Mnisi believes it’s important for graduates to keep acquiring knowledge and to stay informed about their industry.

“Constantly update your skills, do a short course to widen your knowledge and qualifications base, work with a mentor or volunteer. All these things grow you as a person and increase your competitiveness in the job market,” said Mnisi.

Every effort that you put in will help you to either refine your skills or develop your resilience or focus. Remember that as much as you are looking for them, they are looking for you too.

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