Having trouble finding your first job in the IT industry?
Here is a few useful tips to help you kick-start your year and career…
Here are 5 top tips to help secure your first job:
- Tailor your CV and cover letter to the job you’re applying for. It’s important to highlight the skills and experience that align with the requirements of the position. Studies have shown that customising your application to the job can increases your chances of getting an interview by up to 50%.
- Network, Network, Network! Building relationships with people in your field can be incredibly valuable when it comes to finding job opportunities. In fact, according to a study by the job search website, LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking.
- Be proactive and persistent. This means going beyond just applying to job postings online and reaching out to companies and recruiters directly. Research shows that the average job seeker applies to an average of 24 jobs before getting an offer, so persistence is key.
- Highlight transferable skills. If you are transitioning from one field to another or have limited experience in your desired field, it’s important to emphasize transferable skills that demonstrate your ability to adapt and learn quickly. A study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) found that employers place a strong emphasis on transferable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication.
- Participating in extracurricular activities and volunteer work can help you gain valuable skills, experience, and connections that can help you stand out to employers. According to a survey by the Corporation for National and Community Service, 72% of employers are more likely to hire candidates with volunteer experience.
It’s important to note that, these tips are not a guarantee of getting a job, but they can certainly increase the chances of getting an interview, and ultimately, a job offer.