Attention Young Grads! Here's The Formula For Finding The Right Job!

Perplexed by the daunting task of finding the right job? Well, you are not alone in this. Unclench your jaw and relax your shoulders. In this article, we will help you find the best job for your budding career in the most strategic and step-wise manner. Also, don’t forget to check out the bonus tip at the end of the article!

Slow responses for applications, constant juggling with college assignments and learning new skills, unsure of where to kick start a career because of the plethora of choices, rejections and companies not getting back to you, lack of experience, salary expectations, etc. the reasons for the anxiety of landing a perfect job can be endless and can vary from person to person. But behind all these statements, one thing in common is the mission of finding the right job. 

If you want to do a job that meets all your requirements but you don't know what it is or where you should start, let's first answer some honest questions to discover your underlying thought process which lay buried under the dust of uncertainties.

Sidenote: Do not over-analyze while answering them and be rational.

• What is your source of motivation? 
• What have you enjoyed studying most? 
• If all jobs paid the same, which field would you go for? 
• If granted a wish, where would you like to work?
• What topics do you enjoy discussing with friends?
• What is your biggest strength?
• Are you okay working long hours or if required post-office hours?
• Does a promotion matter to you?
• Do challenges excite you or demotivate you?
• What kind of work environment would you prefer?
• If you are employed and seeking a change, what’s the one thing you dislike about it?

Even if it takes you an hour or a day to come to any conclusion for finding these answers, it is absolutely fine. Because it’s not about just finding a job, but the right job. 

Mark a strategic headstart

After all the soul-searching, the first step is to design a strategic approach. The process of searching for a job is no less than a complex maze. From applying for jobs to getting shortlisted for a series of interviews, a varied number of parameters are considered by employers. So, start with a targeted search. Don’t just apply at a single opening and sit idle. Have a rigorous approach. Use a journal to keep records. Make sure that while you are tweaking your resumes as per the job description, update your LinkedIn as well. You never know who is watching your account. Stay in touch with influential people on LinkedIn, and share their posts. This will keep you highlighted in their memory, and when the time comes, you will be the first person in their contact list for any vacancy.

Keep your passion and career in view

Yes, it is good to approach a dozen job vacancies, but don't be a blind sheep. Analyze your skillset and interests beforehand. If you see yourself as a successful illustrator a year down the lane, don’t invest your heart, mind, and soul in some entirely unrelated field. Of course, if you have devised a fool-proof solid plan then go for that “unrelated job” but do it at your own risk. Here it is important to understand that jumping at an opportunity because their environment is good or are paying a better salary is not healthy. Sorry to say, but this way you will be just another whining employee who is dejected and has lost drive and sense of purpose. Beware of falling into a rut!

The real need for market research

The business world is characterized by its dynamic nature and for this reason, a major part of finding the right job is about gaining a proper understanding of the real market scenario. There are thousands of websites and newsletters you can follow or subscribe to in order to stay informed. But don’t rely on second-hand information, find out everything yourself. Analyze the requirement of your skills in the market, see what recruiters are looking for, and observe what can be the probable demand in the future market related to the shortlisted jobs. 

Flaunt what you have got

Once you are aware of the market trends, now you know what your go-to job would look like. Learn and talk in their language, syncing with their ideology will get you the offer. Presenting yourself in a focused and smart way is equally important to grab the employer's attention. Use infographics, logos, smart charts, or narrate a story with photos, on your LinkedIn or portfolio. Tell them what you are seeking. Be bold and summarise how your skillset can be helpful to the organization. A word of caution, don’t get lost in emotions. Maintain a crisp script. Think in advance what they can be interested in listening to and get your message right!

Time for the bonus tip: 

We know finding a job after completing graduation is not easy. Moreover, the struggle of the unending dilemma of skipping a year or getting into just any job is pretty much exhausting. But, if you are denying job offers because of pay, and a long time has already passed since then. Let’s say 2 years, then prepare yourself for answering some of the most obvious yet annoying questions. The employer will want to know what you did for 2 years. So, it’s better to get some experience on your resume instead of weaving stories that do not add up. (until unless you were actually helpless) 

You’re smart and you have got this!

Some other articles which can be helpful for finding the right job are:

1. Improve your Résumé by turning Bullet Points into Stories
2. How to evaluate and negotiate a job offer?
3. Asking follow up questions can better your chances of getting hired
4. How to avoid Imposter Syndrome during Interview
5. How to subtly increase your LinkedIn Visibility