Despite signs of economic recovery, the global job market is still very competitive as many experienced professionals who lost their job during the recession remain in the ranks of the unemployed. This oversupply in the market spoils employers with the availability of candidates who may have more experience and knowledge than it is needed for a job — and who are often willing to accept surprisingly low wages for the sake of returning to the workforce.
This scenario also complicates the job-hunting process for fresh graduates who may feel the need to fight the more experienced over scarce entry-level jobs.
In this competitive market, however, fresh graduates can easily position themselves to capitalise on existing opportunities by playing up their capabilities and education that can make them a better fit for the employer's financial and professional requirements.
To do so, they must understand their own points of strength in today's market and be able to communicate them clearly and concisely. They also must be aware that even though an older and more experienced job candidate seems to be a good deal, an employer will still have concerns regarding this person's ability to fit it. Experience does matter, but it is not the only factor at play.
Here are a few points to consider if you're a fresh graduate looking for a job and trying to position yourself as a better fit than a more experience rival:
Fresh perspective
Take a forward looking approach: While you may be lacking in practical experience, having up-to-date education with an aptitude to learn is a huge plus. That is why it is important to highlight your relevant academic qualification to the hiring manager, and affirm your willingness to learn and receive training, if necessary. Many employers who are hiring for entry-level jobs may prefer to hire those who begin their careers on the company system rather than trying to convince older and more experienced professionals to change their ways. Employers appreciate the flexibility of new graduates. So what you need to do is to show how outgoing you are and prove to be able to integrate and adopt the system.
Affordable choice
No one likes to be an inexpensive option. But to get your first job money shouldn't be an obstacle — a fact that both you and the hiring manager will be aware of. Your task here is to convince the hiring manager that you can do the job just fine and there is no need to pay extra for experience. To do so, you will need an excellent resume that explains your education, any experience gained through education, and most importantly a list of references who are willing to vouch for you. You also need to realise that in today's tough market, you must be willing to slightly compromise in money negotiation, if any, for the sake of getting this first job. Once you get your foot in the door and prove your qualification and abilities, you will be in a better position to negotiate a higher pay.
Individual edge
Work out an individual advantage that sets you apart from other graduates in your field and level of experience. This could be academic excellence, volunteer work, an internship, or even your personal passion for technology, social media, etc. The point is to provide the hiring manager with a surprise advantage that makes up for the lack of experience and simply proves you're a good deal.
Commitment
Don't lose out on the stability point. It can be a concern for a hiring manager that you, as a fresh graduate, are likely to use the job as a jumping pad to a better position. And because employers do invest in training and through the learning curve of their employees, providing assurances of your career commitment can go a long way. While no one will stop you from jumping jobs later, racking a couple of solid years of experience before making a move can position you as a reliable and stable worker.
Thriving industry
If your education and qualification give you choice of different industries, try to select a path that has not been badly hit in the recent years of economic turmoil. This can help you begin in a more normal environment where it might be easier to score the first job — even though it won't guarantee professional shocks down the road. After all, no industry is totally immune of the market ups and downs.
Rania Oteify, a former Gulf News Business Features Editor, is currently a journalist based in Seattle.
The first job
- Play up your education and abilities.
- Focus on the job rather than the money.
- Show commitment and a bonus point.
- Don't go down a dead-end job career path
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