Have you been struggling to land your first job? Or feeling trapped in the endless loop of the get-experience-to-get-hired cycle? You’re not at all alone in this struggle. Many job seekers face this conundrum.
This vicious cycle has been haunting many a talent who are hard in pursuit of opportunities. Typically, employers’ preference for candidates who already have relevant experience makes it difficult for newcomers to break into the job market.
About 61% of full-time “entry-level” jobs require over 3 years of experience, as revealed by a TalentWorks study. It takes 3 to 6 months on average to find an entry-level employment opportunity.
However, five stepping stones can bring a candidate closer to finding a job. First, complete an internship in a relevant field; second, move on to an apprenticeship at a company; third, volunteer at social causes to gain practical experience; fourth, start your own project; and fifth, get involved with student organisations to develop organisational capabilities.
The digital age has simplified the job search process. Utilising online job boards, networking events, LinkedIn, social media, and career fairs can help one secure an entry-level position. Also, to succeed, it’s vital to respond to interviewers’ questions with both confidence and humility.
Clarity and perception must shine through in your answers, no matter how tough the question. Sending a post-interview thank-you note is also known to boost one’s chances of impressing the interviewer.
Start off by crafting a professional CV. It makes a strong first impression on employers. Even with all these efforts, setbacks can occur nevertheless. It’s essential not to take rejections personally, maintain a steady routine of attending interviews, stay motivated, and lead a healthy lifestyle to persevere consistency.
