You’ve finished university, you have your degree and are now on the hunt to find a graduate job to kick-start your career. Whilst you feel pleased about getting your degree, you may also be experiencing a sense of apprehension actually finding a job but don’t worry – everyone does. Here are 5 things you should bear in mind which will hopefully help you in searching and applying for a graduate job.

Be Resourceful and Prepared

When starting your job search, you should ask yourself these questions:

• Is my degree relevant to the position or is it not an essential requirement?
• Is there clear career progression within the company?
• What sort of salary can I expect to get with my qualifications and experience?
• What specific skills and experience do I need to have for that position?

When you have asked yourself these questions, you will gain a good understanding of what jobs are currently available for you and how the job fits in with your career ambitions. Also, these questions will help you in job interviews because you will clearly define what your key skills and strengths are.

Be Determined

Set goals. If you are serious about finding new career opportunities after University, then having goals will help you push through the monotony of finding and applying for jobs. Set a target of applying for at least 5 jobs a day.

Be Open to Networking

Remember that looking for a job online is not the only option. People around you might be able to help you in your job search. That friend of a friend could be looking for someone like you or know of opportunities that you may be interested in. Ask yourself if you already know anyone currently working in the industry and if you do, get in contact. Also Building your relationships with people through job open days or other events will allow you to have more connections to contact. Either way, asking people around you is always a good thing. Get your voice heard and don’t be afraid to ask people about job opportunities.

Be Realistic

After University, you may be one of the lucky ones and your dream company hires you straight away, however, it may take some time to reach that goal. Things never turn out how you plan so just be realistic. If you can’t find what you want today, there’s a good chance it will come up in the future. Think of your first job after graduation as a new opportunity to gain valuable work experience.

Preparation is definitely the key to helping you feel ready to take your first step on the career ladder. Make sure you take enough time to research companies and prepare yourself for any difficult questions they may fire your way. Remember, first impressions are key and that’s how your potential employer will remember you, so make it count!