Are you a student interviewing for a summer job? Or, have you been out of the workforce for a while? Reality bites, and leaves teeth marks when you realise that most organisations hesitate when it comes to hiring people who lack experience.
1. Go Social – Polish up your C.V. and upload the data onto a LinkedIn profile at www.linkedin.com. Start joining groups in your relevant industry and post questions in the ‘Answer’ section. Although, make sure you take the time to understand the tone and conversation profile of the group before you start contributing to avoid breaching group etiquette.
While we on the topic of social media – make sure there is NOTHING on any social media profile that is incriminating. Human Resources Managers are not stupid, they will Google you, and it is surprising what you can find out about someone even if their profile is ‘locked’.
2. Internships – It’s never too late to apply for a summer internship and those few weeks work experience could be what gets you your first ‘real job’. Work out what roles would offer career development and a chance to put what you have learnt into practice. Get to know your tutors and lecturers and ask them if they have any good industry contacts. Identify which companies you would like to work for and research them carefully before making your approach.
3. Volunteer – Contact your local non-profit organisations that could use your skills. If you are based in Dunedin, check out www.volunteeringotago.org.nz . The Dunedin Fringe Festival, Yellow Eyed Penguin Trust, Red Cross and Age Concern are also always looking for support. If you do a great job, most organisations will be happy to give you a reference in return for your efforts.
4. Professional Organisations – Find out which professional organisations people in your industry belong too and join them, many organisations will offer you a student membership rate and be glad to see you at their meetings. I would also highly recommend joining Toastmasters, Rotaract, and your local Chamber of Commerce.
5. Personal Networks – Many students are so busy trying to prove themselves that they forget to ask their personal networks for help. Send out emails and give people a call. Talk to your family and friends and ask them for suggestions. You will be surprised what is offered when you simply say “I need your help, do you know…..”
This is only the start of your personal career project, and even if the role is not perfect, as long as it is in the right industry and you are getting experience you are one-step closer to finding your ideal career. Know that this role will allow you to discuss your ‘experience’ when you are interviewing for your perfect role!