Every graduate around the world encounters the same obstacles when trying to enter the job market. How can you compete with candidates that have more experience and education? The answer is simple. Don’t freak out and follow these four winning tips to make yourself stand out from the recent graduate crowd.
1. Request informational interviews 
Informational interviews are when you get in touch with industry experts and ask them for a 10 minute coffee to learn more about how to get a foot in the door of your dream job. Asking for informational interviews is a great way to get to your target companies BEFORE they advertise the position you want to apply for. The good news is that people are far more likely to give you their time as a recent graduate. This is not only an amazing opportunity to learn from industry experts but you can also shine. Make sure to ask questions that demonstrate your passion and understanding for the company, its objectives, company culture and that you have the skills and energy they’re looking for. This will give you the upper hand when a job vacancy opens up as they’ve already met you.
2. Position yourself as an emerging leader
As a recent graduate you might not have a lot of experience but market yourself as an emerging leader in your field. This is not as hard as it sounds. Create a blog or social media channel and post engaging content and engage with other industry leaders by regramming/citing their work and interviewing them in your posts. Over time you will generate valuable reciprocating relationships which will open doors to your dream job.
3. What are your greatest strengths? 
You may be lacking professional experience but everybody has valuable skills. Work out what your 2 or 3 greatest strengths are and how they can be used to bring value to a company or specific job vacancy.
4. Show willingness to learn
Be a sponge for knowledge and information. This will make you look more attractive to prospective employers as you can absorb new information quickly and improve in your role. Be able to provide examples of how you have achieved this in the past.
Life as a recent graduate can be daunting and it can seem like there are endless obstacles to overcome. However you have to remember for some companies you are a blank canvass that they can mould into the perfect employee. So if you can demonstrate sponge like willingness to learn and a few key strengths you will have your dream job in no time.