Hey there, newly grad! You are graduating from college and entering the workforce for the first time. Now is the moment to put into practice all you learned in school (and spent so much money on). You want to soon get an entry-level position that will put your knowledge to good use.

You are part of a group of job-seekers who all have different ideas about what an ideal workplace should be like, so income isn’t the sole influence in your decision-making. If the task seems more exciting, you may be prepared to take a wage cut. You have to weigh the benefits of material wealth to your mental health and happiness as well.

Consider the benefits and drawbacks, especially if you’re a recent college student just beginning off. Take your time in coming up with the criteria that will make you want to stay at a work for at least a year, and that will help you achieve your professional objectives. Having a history of job hopping or quitting soon after being hired looks bad on a resume. It’s also not a good idea to burn bridges with past employers in your field, should they provide you with unimpressive references.

Keep in mind the following advice while you search for your dream job and try to avoid falling into any traps:

Value yourself.

Employers often take advantage of recent graduates who are eager to start their careers. Internships and entry-level jobs that don’t pay well and don’t provide meaningful experience are traps that some people set up. When looking for a job, it’s a good idea to see what the going rate is. Don’t be shy about discussing your findings from study and negotiating for a higher wage if you don’t think the one being provided is fair.

Search for openings that match several of your skills and experience.

Companies often include a wish list of “essential” talents in job descriptions, even though they know full well that only a small fraction of candidates will really possess all of them. whether you’re considering applying for the posted position at the organization, you should first ask yourself whether you’re capable of carrying out the duties involved. Sort out the optional necessities from the mandatory ones. You should apply if you feel qualified to do the job. Don’t attempt to “fudge” your capabilities to make them seem more impressive than they really are; instead, be forthright about any experience you have that could be applicable to the job.

Emphasize your individuality.

Don’t allow potential employers write you off because of your chosen field of study, whether it’s business or history. Assist them in seeing that you are more than just a one-dimensional person with plenty to give. Highlight your strongest suit, whether it be hard or soft talents like flexibility, collaboration, or communication. It’s also feasible that your experience in a field unrelated to the position’s requirements may set you apart from the other applicants.

Use your network.

Talk to people you know and let them know what kind of job you’re looking for. If you know someone who works at the company that has a vacancy, that person may recommend you for an interview. Even if your contact says the firm is at capacity, it never hurts to ask for an informative interview or see if you can shadow someone in the relevant area. Don’t be a wallflower now! Put on your bravest face and ask away. Of course, be kind regardless of whether or not the people in your network can assist you.

You will have to pay your dues.

Any company interested in hiring you will need to spend in training you since classroom learning seldom translates to the workplace. Show the company that you’re not simply searching for a job, but a long-term commitment in your future. Don’t accept a dead-end job that pays little and offers no room to grow. Don’t settle for an entry-level job unless you can see room for advancement.

Fact: the typical worker will switch occupations eight times during the course of their working life. It’s possible that your first employment won’t be ideal. Progress may be measured by your ability to acquire new knowledge and develop as an individual without compromising your core values. You should appreciate your worth and ask for what you deserve. Then, make it your mission to validate the company’s faith in you.

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