Career Planning & Job Search Preparation - How to Identify Your Career Goals in 5 Easy Steps
"Begin with the end in mind."
Stephen Covey
We have started with a quote because we believe when it comes to your career and happiness, never were truer words spoken. Whether you're taking your first steps into work, changing the direction of your existing career, or seeking clarity in your current role, the first and most important step is to set well-defined career goals. Success doesn't happen by chance; it comes from choosing a direction with intention. By identifying your personal and professional goals early, you can choose your direction with purpose and save yourself a lot of time and detours on the road to a fulfilling career. Let's look at how we can achieve this in a simple and actionable five-step approach.
Step 1: Reflect on What You Really Want
Before you can set meaningful goals, you need to understand what truly matters to you. This is the foundation of career planning. Start by setting aside some time to reflect on your personal interests, strengths, values, and aspirations. If you are already in a career, take yourself outside of this and go back to what makes you, you! Sometimes, you are too deep in your work mindset to see the light through the trees!
Ask yourself:
What do I enjoy doing, and what am I good at?What kind of work environment suits me best?What are my non-negotiables (e.g. work-life balance, creativity, job security)?
What kind of lifestyle do I want my career to support?
Journaling your thoughts, speaking with a mentor, or using career exploration tools like personality or skills assessments can help you begin to see patterns and possibilities. This stage is all about grabbing as much personal and emotional data as you can; remember to keep an open mind and ask for as much help as you can.
Step 2: Explore Your Options
Once you've reflected on what's important to you, start researching industries, roles, and career paths that align with your values and interests. You don't need to have all the answers straight away, this is just the time to explore all ideas.
Tips for exploration:
Look at job boards and take note of roles that excite you.Use LinkedIn to research job titles and career journeys.Attend career fairs, webinars, or informational interviews.Reach out to professionals in fields you're curious about.
Talk to reputable recruitment agencies.
Keep a list of what appeals to you and why. This can help narrow your focus and avoid being overwhelmed.
Step 3: Set Realistic and Motivating Goals
Now, it's time to put structure around your ambitions. Break them down into short, medium, and long-term goals.
The SMART framework is especially useful for this:
Specific – What exactly do you want to achieve?
Measurable – How will you track your progress?
Achievable – Is this goal realistic based on your current situation?
Relevant – Does it align with your values and bigger vision?
Time-bound – What is your deadline or timeframe?
For example:
Short-term: "Complete a digital marketing course within three months."Medium-term: "Gain six months of work experience through an internship or part-time role."
Long-term: "Secure a full-time marketing executive position within the next year."
Step 4: Create an Action Plan
Goals without action are just wishes, so start writing down and mapping out how you'll achieve your objectives step by step.
Break it down:
What skills or qualifications do you need?Who can support or mentor you?What resources (courses, job boards, networking events) can help?
What will you do this week, this month, this quarter?
Now begin and move forward with your first action; you will be surprised how small, consistent steps will build momentum over time. Set weekly check-ins with yourself to review progress and adapt your plan as needed, but keep a well-timed diary of goals and achievements to give you a sense of urgency and try keeping to them.
Step 5: Stay Flexible and Open
Remember, career paths aren't always linear. You may discover new opportunities, passions, or challenges along the way. That's perfectly normal. The key is to stay open to change while staying connected to your core goals and values. Pivoting from one thing to another may only be one course away, or a chance meeting at a networking event. Just remember, be steady, constant and keep moving forward. When you feel something needs to be freshened up, reevaluate by reviewing the 5 steps again and see if anything has changed, this may give you the exact new heading you need to be traveling in. Don't be afraid to revisit and revise your career plan as you grow. What matters is having a guiding vision that keeps you focused and motivated.
Final Thoughts
Career planning is more than just finding your next job; it's about building a future that aligns with who you are and what you want. By taking the time to understand yourself, exploring options, and setting achievable goals, you'll set a strong foundation for a successful and fulfilling journey.
Whether you're just starting out or navigating a mid-career pivot, identifying your career goals is the first and perhaps most important step. By prioritising this first you can create a future you're excited about by finding a job and career path you love. We started with a quote so we will end with one; we think this Confucius chap maybe quite clever :)
"Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life."
Confucius
If you came here from our Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Dream Job then hit the button below to take you back. if you are looking for more resources of your next career more then hit that button!!
A Guide to Dealing with Redundancy
A Guide to Dealing with Redundancy
Being Made Redundant? Don't Panic – Take Control Instead
Being made redundant can be a stressful and emotional experience, often leading to feelings of uncertainty. However, it's crucial to remember that redundancy doesn't reflect your abilities or worth. It's a circumstance that many people will face due to many differing circumstances. Often, it is not about you, so do not take it to heart. Saying all that, we know on an emotional level that this is easier said than done, especially when doubt and worry enter the picture. The best way to move on from these feelings is to put a structure in place so you can feel back in control, and then if this still does not help the emotional side of things, make sure you address this with help and support. How you respond to this in the first few days will make all the difference! What is important now is how you tackle the situation head-on, so let's get started!
Addressing the Psychological Side of Redundancy
When faced with redundancy, it's natural to feel a range of emotions—from shock and anger to sadness and uncertainty. Recognising and processing these feelings is essential because emotional stability and well-being are necessary foundations for tackling the practical steps ahead.
Acknowledge Your Emotions
It's okay to feel frustrated, anxious, or even demotivated. Redundancy can shake your sense of security and identity, especially if your job has been a significant part of your life. Ignoring these emotions can lead to burnout and prolonged stress, so allow yourself time to process how you feel.
Talk it out: Share your feelings with family, friends, or someone you trust. Verbalising your thoughts can reduce emotional weight and provide fresh perspectives.
Write a journal: If talking isn't your style, writing can help you work through your emotions. Journaling allows you to reflect on your situation and can reveal patterns or ideas that help you move forward.
Avoid self-blame: Redundancy is often a business decision unrelated to personal performance. Remind yourself that your skills and values remain intact.
Seek Professional Support
Sometimes, speaking to a professional can provide clarity and relief. There's no shame in seeking help when life feels overwhelming.
Counselling and Therapy: Talking to a counsellor or therapist can give you the tools to manage your emotions and build resilience. Many services offer free or low-cost support. Take a listen to our podcast by Sandra Marston an esteemed counsellor and life coach for the past 18 years.
Helplines and Charities: Organisations like Mind UK and Samaritans offer confidential, 24/7 support. If you're struggling, they can listen without judgment and help guide you through challenging moments.
Maintain Your Mental Well-being
Staying active and nurturing your mental health can help reduce stress and keep you motivated. Here are some practical strategies:
Stay Physically Active: Exercise releases endorphins, which boost your mood and reduce feelings of anxiety. A daily walk, yoga, or a home workout can make a significant difference.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness and meditation help you stay present and reduce racing thoughts. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through easy exercises.
Stick to a Routine: Structure your day with productive activities like job searching, skill-building, and leisure time. A consistent routine helps create a sense of normality and control.
Prioritise Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for emotional regulation. Create a bedtime routine, avoid screen time before bed, and focus on winding down with calming activities like reading or listening to music.
Reframe the Experience
Although redundancy may feel like a setback, try to see it as an opportunity for a fresh start. Many people use this time to reassess their career goals and ultimately find more fulfilling paths. Ask yourself:
What have I learned from my previous job?
Is there a new direction I've always wanted to explore?
What skills and strengths can I build on?
Reframing the experience in a positive light won't happen overnight, but it can help you move from a sense of loss to a mindset of growth and possibility.
Stay Connected
Isolation can amplify negative feelings. Stay connected with your personal and professional networks. Surrounding yourself with supportive people—whether friends, family, or fellow professionals—will help you stay motivated and hopeful. Join local job-seeker groups or connect with peers in your industry. Sometimes, just knowing you're not alone can make all the difference.
The Practical Stuff!
Okay, now that we have got that out of the way, and you are in a better place, it is time to get practical and dive into the details of what you need to address. Once you have actioned all of these issues, you will feel firmly back in control of your life!
Step 1: Assess Your Finances and Know Your Rights
The first priority is to ensure you have financial stability while you plan your next steps. Here's how:
Check Your Entitlements
Ensure your employer has paid all the compensation you are entitled to, such as redundancy pay, notice pay, and any outstanding holiday pay.
The UK Government's website www.gov.uk provides up-to-date information on redundancy rights and entitlements. Use their tools and guides to ensure nothing is missed.
Re-evaluate Your Outgoings
Take a hard look at your monthly expenses. Identify areas where you can reduce spending or delay non-essential purchases.
Review your household bills and switch providers if you can find cheaper alternatives for utilities, broadband, and insurance.
If you are struggling with debt, contact your mortgage provider or lenders early to discuss your options. Many offer repayment plans or temporary relief in times of financial hardship.
Check for Available Benefits
Use the government's benefits calculator to check what financial support you may be eligible for. Don't overlook this resource—it's your right to access the help you need.
Plan for Future Expenses
Consider upcoming financial commitments such as holidays or big purchases. Can these be postponed, scaled back, or cancelled? Reducing future liabilities will ease financial pressure.
Step 2: Create a Job Search Plan
Being proactive and strategic in your job search is crucial. We have a very comprehensive guide on this here, but this will give you a quick guide to get started.
Identify Your Next Steps
Think about what type of job you'd like to pursue. Assess your transferable skills and experiences—this might be an opportunity to explore new industries or career paths.
If finding a new role quickly is essential, focus on positions that match your current experience and strengths.
Maximise Your Job Search Tools
Online Job Boards: Regularly check job boards and set up alerts to receive notifications for roles that interest you.
LinkedIn: Update your profile and connect with recruiters, former colleagues, and industry professionals. Let your network know you're looking for new opportunities.
Social Media: Don't underestimate the power of social media for job hunting and networking. Join relevant groups and engage with your professional community.
Work with Recruitment Agencies
At Prestige Recruitment Group, our interactive candidate database allows you to manage your job search efficiently and receive tailored job alerts. Our recruitment consultants provide valuable insights to help you tailor your job search and introduce you to roles that match your skills. Now, after that unashamed plug for our business :), we need to tell you that all reputable recruitment agencies are great for finding you a new career. Just do your research on them first.
Step 3: Upskill and Boost Your Employability
Redundancy can be an opportunity for self-improvement. Use this time to acquire new skills that make you more attractive to future employers.
Free and Low-Cost Online Courses
Platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and FutureLearn offer free and affordable courses on a wide range of topics.
Consider improving your IT skills, learning a new language, or obtaining certifications in your industry.
Address Skill Gaps
Compare your current skillset to the requirements of roles you're interested in. Identify any gaps and focus on closing them through online courses, workshops, or volunteer work.
Step 4: Perfect Your CV and Cover Letter
Your CV is your first impression, so it needs to be polished, professional, and tailored to each job you apply for.
Key CV Tips
Keep it clear, concise, and no longer than 2-3 pages.
Tailor your CV to match the job description for each role. Focus on relevant skills and experiences that meet the employer's requirements.
If your CV has a gap, that is okay! Frame it as a time for self-improvement.
Avoid generic CVs—emphasise your unique strengths for each application.
Proofread your CV thoroughly to ensure it's free from errors. Ask a friend or professional to review it for you.
Cover Letters
Although not always required, a well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out. Use it to explain why you're a great fit for the role and highlight specific achievements.
Like your CV, tailor each cover letter to the role you're applying for.
For detailed advice on crafting your CV, check out our blog: The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your CV.
Step 5: interview preparation and practice
Interview performance is crucial, and candidates often stumble in this area. We have plenty of advice on the interview process. Go through our blogs here, and you will find some gems!
Interviews are your chance to shine, so preparation is key. Practice common interview questions and rehearse your answers. For virtual interviews, ensure your tech setup works, dress professionally, and choose a distraction-free background. Research the company thoroughly to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with its values.
For virtual interviews, ensure your tech setup works, dress professionally, and choose a distraction-free background. Research the company thoroughly to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment with its values.
Step 6: Stay Positive and Focused
Redundancy can be challenging, but staying positive and motivated is key. Here are some strategies to help you through:
Maintain a Routine: Treat your job search like a job in itself. Set aside dedicated daily hours for job hunting, networking, and skill-building.
Stay Active and Connected: Regular exercise and social interaction can boost your mood and help reduce stress. Don't isolate yourself—stay connected to friends, family, and your professional network.
Celebrate Small Wins: Even small progress is worth celebrating. Whether it's completing a course, updating your CV, or getting an interview, every step brings you closer to your next role.
Final Thoughts
Redundancy can feel like a setback, but it's also a chance to regroup, refocus, and find new opportunities. The right job may not come immediately, but with a clear plan, persistence, and a positive mindset, you will find a new role that suits you.
We wish you all the best!
Ultimate Guide to Preparing your CV
It is well worth investing the time and energy to create a good CV. Never underestimate the power of it. It is your chance to showcase your skills and experience, so it must be informative, relevant and word perfect!
1) The first thing to bear in mind is one CV does not fit all. You should have a standard CV that you use as a template and tailor it for each and every job you apply for. It's ok to add things in or take things out that aren’t relevant to a particular job but never invent things that aren’t true.
2) Choose a format and layout; have a look online at examples as there are many different types out there. Choose the one you like, bearing in mind it needs to be easy on the eye to navigate the information it contains. It shouldn’t look overly fussy but should have clean lines.
3) How many pages: in an ideal world it should be two but up to three is acceptable, anything longer will get lost in translation and can lose a person’s attention.
4) Font: some look very old fashioned and confusing whilst others look simple, clean and modern so choose wisely, always popular are Ariel and Calibri. Also, ensure your point font (size) ranges between 10 – 12.
5) Ensure everything looks consistent, any spacing, highlighting or titles should be the same throughout
6) There is no need to title your CV “Curriculum Vitae” your name is the best title you can have!
7) Your name should be followed by your personal details, ensure the right contact details are displayed otherwise you may miss an opportunity. It also makes it easier for an employer to have your name and number together for when they call you, rather than having to search for them.
8) Next should be a brief but informative personal profile or statement, which will bring your CV “to life”. It is a snapshot of who you are, what you can offer and a chance to highlight anything of importance. This will need to be part of your tailoring to a specific job and if they want something in particular skills-wise then highlight it here.
9) Career history: this outlines what positions you have held, where (company name) and when (the start and end dates). All your roles must be headed up in this way followed by the duties you performed. It must be in reverse chronological order because your most recent role will be of most relevance
10) Duties: the easiest way to present them is by bullet points rather than paragraphs of sentences, which can be hard to decipher. Make the bullet points factual, they are a great way for you to embody keywords into your CV so that an employer can skim read through to check you have the right experience. Make sure you tailor your duties to the job description, and they describe your duties as well as your skillset.
11) Your career history does not have to in include every single job you have done in your lifetime, for those with a long history usually the last 10 -15 years will be suffice
12) Do not include irrelevant information, use plain English and avoid waffle, slang and clichés. Try not to write and is if you are talking, it needs to be concise and professional.
13) Education: Like your experience, this should be in reverse chronological order. Include your institution, qualification dates and grades where possible. If a job role asks for some specific qualification make sure that is clearly highlighted.
14) Training: if you have completed any courses that may be relevant to the job you are applying for then you can include them with your Education or have a separate heading.
15) Hobbies and Interests: this is a personal thing. Overall they aren’t really relevant but there may be some job roles that they would be, so again this can be tailored for relevance.
16) References: are not really an essential, if you have the space then you can add in “available on request” or if your recent employer has personally written one for you then you could attach a copy to the back of your cv.
17) Now the content is finished you must check for mistakes, then double check and triple check! Mistakes will not make your first impression a good one. It doesn’t matter how much experience you have or if you are perfect for a job if there are careless mistakes or spelling errors you could lose out.
18) Then take a break! Once you have composed your CV template or spent time tailoring it then take a break from it and revisit. Read through it again with a fresh pair of eyes checking everything makes sense as it could be you have missed something, particularly when you have been tailoring.
19) Finally get someone to check it over for you. They may spot something you haven’t as they are not the composer, ask for their feedback, do they find it easy to read and understand.
So there you have it, you should now be CV ready and confident when applying for jobs. Your CV is your silent sales tool, follow these guidelines and it should develop a voice and shout out loud!!!
More Resources
If you want to invest in yourself to get the best results in the job market, make sure you look at our other blog posts and articles to help you. Start with these two and you will not go wrong! How to Find a Job and our Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Dream Job! Then we have some great shorter blogs on interview techniques and CV writing below. Have a look at all these and you will be set for any interview! Remember, 'Luck favours the prepared! We wish you all the luck and success with your future!
The Top 10 Interview Questions You Should ALWAYS Prepare For!
Research You Should Consider Before An Interview
Ultimate Guide to Preparing your CV
How To Completely Nail Your Zoom, Skype or any other Video Conferencing Interview!
What questions should you never ask in an interview?
How to Answer the Question: What are your Strengths?
How to Answer the Question: What motivates you at work?
Finding a New Job? - It's Time To Clean Up Your Social Media Presence
Also, remember if you are attending interviews you may get rejected, do not take this personally! A lot of things in life are a numbers game, meaning the more you get rejected the closer you will come to getting the job. It is simple maths, the more you do the better the chance of success. It is a healthy part of the process so read the article below and don't let rejection slow you down!
10 Top Tips for Coping With Those Soul-Destroying Job Rejections!
The Ultimate Guide to Working After Your Graduation
Congratulations, you’ve graduated! Three (or more) years of deadlines, reading, exams and coursework and it’s finally all over. Almost 300,000 students start their journey at university across the United Kingdom every single year, but after graduation, life can be difficult. Finishing university can be a confusing time, especially in the times we are living in at the moment, with COVID-19. Reports from the Office for National Statistics says that almost two-thirds of students have experienced a decline in their mental health this academic year and universities have experienced unprecedented levels of demand for mental health services. Research by the graduate jobs website 'Milkround' has shown that just 18% of graduates have secured jobs in 2021 compared with around 60% typically. Many graduates have found themselves unable to secure work experience as most firms withdrew their internships because of the pandemic. Also, this is exacerbated by companies slashing their graduate schemes, which is the first step for many graduates. We know how hard it has been for you this year, so we have put together some help to give you the best possible chance of getting your first career step and moving into more exciting and positive times for the future.
Mental Health
First off, it is essential that your mental health is in good order. If you are suffering then reach out for professional help, life seems so much easier if you have a positive outlook. If you are just feeling a little flat and lacking motivation then have a listen to a podcast that we produced with Sandra Marston an esteemed counsellor and life coach for the past 18 years. Although these two podcasts were about working in the lockdown and motivation, they hold all the information you need to get the best from yourself. We talk about all the big issues, from sleep and exercise to food, meditation and breathing, these two podcasts cover it all so take a listen! Regaining your mojo with motivation and the Survive and prosper In the world of lockdown podcast
All Change
Everything you have grown to know over the past three years seems to have changed dramatically. Now is the time to really have a focus on what you want to do and move towards it in a concise and focused manner! Don’t just apply for every job you see with a generic approach. You will get much better results if you decide where you want to be in terms of the type of job and company you want to work for. What do you feel you would be good at? Do you have any transferable skills? How would you like to start your career? Then craft your CV and covering letter tomarry it to the position you are looking to attain. You should always be tweaking your CV and covering letter to match the position and the company you are applying to. A generic cover all approach will not get you far, you need to look like you are the perfect match for the position, so make sure you put the time in and get this part right! A great start for some tips on CV writing is our blog so head over there after you have read this and take a look.
Bring Focus To It All
You need focus in terms of a job-hunting strategy as well as a focus on what you are saying to a potential employer with written applications and interviews. Talking of interviews, the pandemic has pushed a lot onto video conferencing platforms and even coming out of the pandemic, we are seeing a lot of companies taking advantage of this for the first interview stage. Like everything in life, this is a skill you have to learn to be good at, master this and you will stand a better chance of moving on to a second interview. We have created a guide to give you some top tips on video conferencing interviews, reading through this will be well worth your time. Alternatively if you have a face to face interview then take a look at our comprehensive article , this article has a section about how to handle face to face interviews. Whichever style of interview you have, learn the skills and practice! If you feel nerves will get the better of you in an interview setting then take advantage of this blog on how to overcome these feelings.
Craft Your Story
Graduate employers place emphasis on finding candidates with the right attitude and skills and depending on the sector you choose to work in, there will be specific skills and knowledge needed. So bring all the strands together that may help your situation. Did you do any part-time work that may have been relevant in the past? Have you any blogs you may have written that may be relevant to the sector, no? Well, why not start a blog on the sector you what to work in? What we are trying to say is craft your story around where you what to be so it looks like you would be a great fit for the position. We understand that finding a graduate job can be difficult, especially if you don’t have much experience. But don’t fear - we have listed some essential skills that you should develop to ensure that you can make the best start!
Networking Is Important - Do It
Do you remember when you first got to university and you joined as many societies as you could? You did this to meet more people and make more friends. Networking is exactly like this but in a more professional setting. Regardless of the job you are doing, it’s really important to meet and interact with people from different professional backgrounds – particularly in the industry you want a career in. There are tonnes of networking events all over the UK, and you never know when someone you meet is going to benefit your career choices in the future. Another great tool for networking is LinkedIn, where you can chat and engage with different companies and important people across your industry. Have a look at our LinkedIn guide here to get started.
Digital Awareness
With the development of technology over the past few years, many companies have realised the importance of the digital world. When hiring new employees, companies have an increased focus on graduates that have a deep understanding of social media and the online world. Online developments mean that a company’s digital presence is essential to pushing company branding. Therefore, every graduate should ensure they have an understanding of the basic social media platforms. Even if the career you will be working in is not directly linked to social media, it is still an essential skill in understanding the modern-day makings of today’s working world.
Now, if you are a young graduate we are taking it that you are social savvy, if you are, then heed this warning! According to a 2017 report by 'The Muse,' one in three employers has rejected candidates based on something they found out about them online. YouGov a UK based research agency revealed in 2017 that a huge 36% of UK employers rejected candidates based on their social media profiles. We think it is very safe to say if you are applying for a job in 2021 companies have upped their game in digital screening since 2017, take it for certain that you will be checked! If you don't read anything else, make sure you do read our guide on cleaning up your social media when applying for jobs. this may be the difference between getting your dream start or losing it. On top of that, companies may not tell you it is because of your social presence, so you may never know this has been the issue that has scuppered your chances. Get your social presence in order and don't lose out!
Teamwork And Communication
In any working environment, teamwork is vital. In your first job, you may find that you’re going to be working with different people than you’re used to. At university, you probably lived or studied with a bunch of similar minded people. When you get your first job, you’ll find yourself working with people who are completely different from your mates at uni. Depending on the company or industry you are going into – you might be the youngest and least experienced, chances are you will be working in a team of diverse individuals from different walks of life and therefore, you must be able to develop your ability to work within a team. For many businesses, finding someone who embodies their company culture is vital, and for that, they need people who will be able to work efficiently and effectively within their already established team. This links into the importance of communication skills – you should be able to talk to your peers and superiors efficiently in order to get tasks done whilst embodying the company culture. Although it can be tough, your first job is a great opportunity to get a taste of the working world, you should remember that you are able to learn from every person you meet within your new role.
Self-Motivation
In today’s modern society, there is increased independent working. Although you may be part of a team within a company, you will have your own individual responsibilities. Similar to studying at university, you may not have someone checking in with you all the time so you should be able to work independently to get everything done. With COVID-19 remote working and flexible hours have become very standard, therefore, you should ensure you are motivated enough to be able to work from home while maintaining the same working attitude that you would have if you were working in the office. We have a handy blog on motivation here.
Eager To Learn
As with any job, you must show passion and enthusiasm. When applying for graduate roles, it is important you show companies how eager you are to learn new things to be able to make a difference. The fact you have been to university already shows that you were eager to continue your education and shows that you are a hard worker who is dedicated to learning. Use this to promote your want for more information, to show companies that you are eager to always be learning.
Personality
As we’ve already said, almost 300,000 students go to university every year so you must use your personality to stand out from the 299,999 other candidates. Allow companies to see who you are and show you are unique to everybody else. Companies don’t want to hire just any graduate, they want someone who is interesting with a good personality, knowing they can add something to the team.
Although it can be scary moving from a learning establishment that you love; when you get your first graduate job you will realise how exciting working can be. Just because your time at university has come to an end does not mean that you can’t learn to love something else – you have your whole career ahead of you!
This Job Won’t Be Your Last
It’s not always easy to get a specific job that relates to your degree so if you find yourself in a job that’s not immediately related to what you thought you wanted to do – don’t worry. You may decide to do some temporary work to gain experience and start to build a great CV but whatever job you are doing whether it be to develop skills, gain experience or show you are prepared to do whatever it takes, it will all help you eventually get your dream job. Your career ladder can go as high as you want it to, so consider this as taking a step onto the first rung. You may have to 'kiss a few frogs' before you get your dream job so don’t put pressure on yourself when you start out. In the job market, it’s all about interpersonal skills, attitude and hard work that will set you above the competition, not necessarily who has the best grades. Being able to effectively communicate and show your passion is key.
Ultimately - It’s Up To You
At university, you were pretty much left to your own devices. You were set coursework with deadlines and it was up to you to see your tutor and ask for feedback. Working is no different to this. At the end of the day, the impact you make is completely dependent on you. Show your passion, network, support your company the best you can and make a name for yourself! You have done really well to graduate but you need to understand that your degree isn’t necessarily everything and doesn’t come with any guarantees, you need to work and develop your skillset and knowledge within the working world. This doesn’t mean that just because you’ve graduated, work has to become your life. In fact, you might still go out drinking on a weekend – just make sure your hangovers aren’t taken to work!
Conclusion
This blog will give you an understanding of some of the issues you need to address, but we have deep resources on how to get you a perfect start in your career. We have listed them all below for you, so take a day out of your schedule, read them all and implement them. For this bit of study investment, you will be a more accomplished person at finding and obtaining your dream starting position!
More Resources
If you want to invest in yourself to get the best results, make sure you look at our other blog posts and articles to help you. Start with these two and you will not go wrong! How to Find a Job and our Ultimate Guide to Getting Your Dream Job! Then we have some great shorter blogs on interview techniques below. Have a look at all these and you will be set for any interview! Remember, 'Luck favours the prepared! We wish you all the luck and success with your future!
The Top 10 Interview Questions You Should ALWAYS Prepare For!
Research You Should Consider Before An Interview
Ultimate Guide to Preparing your CV
How To Completely Nail Your Zoom, Skype or any other Video Conferencing Interview!
What questions should you never ask in an interview?
How to Answer the Question: What are your Strengths?
How to Answer the Question: What motivates you at work?
Finding a New Job? - It's Time To Clean Up Your Social Media Presence
Also, remember if you are attending interviews you may get rejected, do not take this personally! A lot of things in life are a numbers game, meaning the more you get rejected the closer you will come to getting the job. It is simple maths, the more you do the better the chance of success. It is a healthy part of the process so read the article below and don't let rejection slow you down!
10 Top Tips for Coping With Those Soul-Destroying Job Rejections!