Most fresh graduates are determined to get their first regular paying job. Naturally, the thought of going out into the real world and making your own money is quite exhilarating after years of being dependent on allowances given by parents. However, young job-seekers tend to forget that things are more than just resumes, email applications, and that first big fat paycheck. Here are some things that every upcoming professional like you should remember.
Fix your LinkedIn
Social media is more than just Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Outside the realms of those three, LinkedIn exists. Although it may not be part of your daily routine, a well-crafted LinkedIn profile is as good as any resume. In fact, some companies look for potential employees on LinkedIn. Given that, build a strong profile that makes a lasting impression. It will definitely benefit you in the long run and it is a must-have for every professional.
Contacts are Gold
The people you will meet in your future business meetings are also most likely the ones to help you in the real world. So, make sure to always add these people to your valuable business contacts. Whether in your phone or in your Google contacts, remember to include their phone/mobile number, email address, as well as their profession. You’ll never know when they could help you out so it’s important to just be ready all the time.
Fix your Facebook Privacy Settings
Gone are the days when you can post whatever you want and care less who sees it. Make sure that by the time you go back to the office from a wild weekend, people still look at you as a professional. Screen who can see your posts and always keep work and playtime separated from each other— well unless playing is in your job description.
Nowadays, Human Resources train their assistants and associates to investigate a person’s Facebook so they can see what they post. At times, they don’t like people who post strong political opinions and the sort. They find these kinds of personality aggressive and would most likely clash with the company’s culture.
Build an online portfolio
Nowadays especially for graphics designers and writers, employers want to see their skill level so they can see if they’re worth the price. One good way is to build an online portfolio. It doesn’t necessarily have to be works that have been used officially (some companies prohibit you from doing so). But, it can be prompts or inspirations that you created in your own free time. For writers, it can be articles they’ve written in the past. For graphics designers, it can artworks, logos, and brand materials they’ve created for other companies.
Having an online portfolio is also helpful when it comes to applying for jobs. Not only will you spare yourself the hassle of bringing so much paper with you but, it also makes it easier for Human Resources to process. Some people prefer sending a Google Drive link. Others prefer using WordPress as a means to build their portfolio.
Always update your online resume
Professionals always seem to forget to update their resume that when employers look at it, there’s a lot of missing information. It helps to update your resume every time you leave your former job so you can also take tabs on how you’ve grown. Resumes are not meant to be static; they’re meant to be constantly evolving especially for someone who prefers a more corporate environment.
Open accounts in Jobstreet, Kalibrr, or Monster
Asides from LinkedIn, there are other places to find jobs. Some of them include Jobstreet. Jobstreet is usually meant for local job offers alongside Kalibrr. Monster, on the other hand, has job opportunities that can be international or outside the country. You’re expanding your network by casting more nets in different job online marketplaces.
Updated and revised by: Kevyn Gohu