Feeling stressed out about your future career and possibly never being hired is a real problem that many University students face. If you are not lucky enough and didn’t secure a placement, as well as only have a job that helps to pay bills and doesn’t look good on your CV, I can tell you that many students find themselves in the same position.
However, it doesn’t mean that you need to send out a CV with just your history of education and some relevant skills you’ve learnt. So let’s break down some things thta employers may still look out for while going through piles of CVs.
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Never disregard your involvement in any sports clubs or societies. Being involved in any activity outside your studies means having a good time management skills, as well as (if you’re part of the committee) outstanding leadership and organisatoonal skills. After all, you would be combining it with full-time studies, possibly part-time job, and general living.
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Always make sure to mention your part-time job still. As simply as that, it just shows your employer that you don’t spend hours outside of university partying or doing absolutely nothing (even if it’s the case, definitely not a good look for anyone🤣). Plus, it’s always good to have a good reference from your previous manager who can tell the recruiter how committed, punctual and trust-worthy you are.
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If you can get involved with any volunteering opportunity, whether it’s just for a day or for extended amount of time - then I say go for it! Recruiters are aware how competitive the job market could be, especially when it comes to placements. So having a volunteering experience on your CV is always beneficial, especially if it’s somewhat related to the field you’re applying for.
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Make sure your personal statement accurately reflects on your personality, as well as adheres to the employer’s preferences. As much as it is tempting, never send out a generic CV (a mistake that many young employees do thinking they could save some time and still land the job). I kid you not, but the recruiter almost always can tell that they’re being sent a generic CV, and combined with not having any work experience in the field? Definitely not the best advertisement for yourself. So make sure to adjust your CV according to job description, even mention the company’s name you’re applying for to let them know that this beautiful CV you’ve put together was created for them only! Would anyone make feel special.
And lastly, just remember, going through job application process is as stressful, as it is rewarding. You may get rejected a few times, but by getting a feedback about your cv/interview would only make you better.
For example, when i got my part-time job, my recruiter openly told me, that he was interested in me as a possible employee, because I’ve sent out a tailored cv, with lots of volunteering, showcased involvement in lots of clubs and societies, as well as my personality shining through. If i can do it without lots of experience, so can you!
At the end of the day, you’re promoting yourself as a possible employee. So don’t get disheartened, work on your CV, include everything you possibly can, and push yourself forward, as it all would lead to you landing your dream job!
