Getting your foot in the door of the job market is a daunting task, especially while you’re still studying. Whether you’ve just enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, you’ll need to start thinking about your future career as early as possible.
The good news is there are plenty of ways you can boost your job prospects while you’re at university. To improve your employment prospects and land the career of your dreams, read below to find some of the best actions you can take today.
Gain Relevant Work Experience
We appreciate you’ll know this already, but it needs to be reiterated – academic excellence is essential. However, while you may be getting top marks and flying through your modules, it’s important to gather work experience in your chosen field too. You’ll find most employers look for candidates who understand the realities of the work environment. With that said, it’s wise to secure internships, summer jobs, or part-time positions associated with your field. Such opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience that is sure to make your CV stand out and secure job interviews.
Develop a Broader Skill Set
Nowadays, the world of work requires individuals to be adaptable and flexible. Improving your skill set is sure to make you a more versatile candidate to employers. You can enhance your knowledge base by enrolling on additional courses, both inside and outside your main areas of study. For instance, learning a foreign language or mastering a software programme can increase your employability significantly.
Partake In Extracurricular Activities
The great thing about extracurricular activities is that they show that you can manage your time effectively, work well in a team and exhibit leadership skills. There are lots of clubs, societies, and sports teams you can sign up for at university that gives you the opportunity to develop these soft skills. Once you learn and master them, you should have no problem getting job interviews and hopefully, scoring your dream job.
Live In the Right Location
Location has a significant influence on your job prospects. If you’re studying in a city known for a particular industry, like finance in London or technology in Cambridge, take advantage of this by seeking internships. If you are looking for opportunities in your university city, residing in student accommodation can make it easier to attend job interviews.Those looking for student accommodation in Exeter can check out Student Cribs. They offer well-equipped, comfortable student houses in the best locations in university towns and cities across the UK.
Build Your Network
When it comes to job hunting, networking plays a critical role. You can engage with industry professionals who have bouts of experience in your field, and, you may wish to attend industry events, workshops, and join relevant groups on social media platforms. Taking these actions helps you stay up-to-date with industry trends while opening doors to potential job opportunities too.
Increasing your chances of finding the right role requires a proactive approach. We’re not going to say landing your dream job will happen overnight. But, keepingstaying positive and doing the actions above should make it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for.