Securing a job after graduation is a major milestone for any individual, and it is one that often determines the trajectory of their career path. However, the reality is that finding employment after graduation can be a daunting and challenging task. As a rule of thumb, a graduate should secure work within 6 months of graduation. Unfortunately, in today's job market, it is not uncommon to wait 12-18 months or even longer. It is important to note that the duration of unemployment after graduation can have an impact on one's career prospects.
If you have been looking for work for a long time, it is crucial to assess your situation and take proactive steps towards finding employment. Over the past two months, I have encountered several graduates who have been searching for work for five years. This is an alarming situation, and it highlights the need for graduates to take their job search seriously.
One of the critical factors to consider is the validity of your qualification. Courses and qualifications have a "use-by" date, which means that if you are not practicing your profession, your qualifications may expire. If you are unsure about the duration of the validity of your qualifications, you should contact the university that awarded your degree. Universities have different time frames for recognizing qualifications, and it is essential to be aware of these time frames to ensure that you are still considered a qualified professional.
As time goes by, it becomes increasingly challenging to secure employment. The longer you remain unemployed after graduation, the harder it is to find work. Employers are likely to view long-term unemployment as a red flag, and it may impact your career prospects negatively. Therefore, it is crucial to be proactive in your job search and take action as soon as possible.
It is important to remember that there are options available for graduates who are struggling to find employment. However, it will take time, effort, and focus to secure a job. It is crucial not to ignore the issue or make excuses, such as COVID-19. Many people have successfully overcome these challenges, and it is vital to identify what they did and emulate their actions.
When it comes to finding a job, the key is to take small steps in the right direction. Like crawling before walking and walking before running, it is essential to start with small and manageable steps. For instance, you can start by identifying job openings in your field and applying for them. You can also seek advice from career counselors, industry professionals, and mentors who can guide you on your job search.
In conclusion, finding employment after graduation can be a challenging and daunting task, but it is crucial to take proactive steps towards securing a job. As a rule of thumb, a graduate should secure work within six months of graduation. However, in today's job market, it is not uncommon to wait 12-18 months or even longer. It is important to remember that courses and qualifications have a "use-by" date, and long-term unemployment after graduation can impact your career prospects negatively. Therefore, it is crucial to take your job search seriously, seek guidance from professionals, and take small steps in the right direction.
If you'd like to know more about the Graduate Accelerator Program (GAP) program let me know, do the following below and in the meantime enjoy your day.
A. Connect with me on LinkedIn.
B. Book a FREE 30-Minute Coaching Call if you want to discuss how I can help you
All the Best,
Mark Healy, the Graduate Coach
