Building a Career Post-College in the Current Hiring Freeze

People hope their first job after college graduation will pave the way for future opportunities and for their growth as specialists. Yet, landing a job in your field is difficult, and even more so if you have no relevant work experience. 

In this article, we examine the current job market for new graduates and how they can adapt to improve their chances of supporting themselves financially and advancing their careers.

The New Problems for Fresh Graduates

With the precious diploma in hand, a new college/university graduate is ready to put their knowledge to the ultimate test: getting hired. However, both the government and independent companies are entering a hiring freeze, halting the rapid growth previously seen through frequent new hires and expansion plans. 

Now, companies choose to manage their current resources, and when they announce new positions, they are likely to be mid- or senior-level openings. With many new graduates likely aiming for junior positions, such a shift dramatically reduces their potential hiring opportunities. 

It has always been challenging to land a job after graduating (especially without any experience). Now, unfortunately, the situation seems to have turned even more bitter.

Temporary Alternatives For a 9-5 Job

Until you get a job, supporting yourself is likely the primary goal. Of course, you can apply for less specialized positions, which should offer more options. 

You can also earn money online. Former students could sell their textbooks and notes, or even their unused internet bandwidth. The latter option is available through Honeygain: a company that pays you for sharing your internet connectivity. 

As for selling old notes, consider Stuvia or Course Hero. Don’t forget about old textbooks or workbooks that could be highly useful to first-year students. 

Your knowledge could also turn into online courses or a tutoring business. If teaching is not your cup of tea, freelancing could work. Sign up for platforms like Upwork to apply for temporary tasks. 

There’s also no reason to fret: this is a temporary solution, especially if you don’t sit idly but aim to hone your expertise in your desired field. 

Shaping Yourself as a Stand-Out Candidate

The reality is that with fewer job listings, competition intensifies. So, your goal is to nail the interviews you do manage to have. However, it entails building an impressive resume and portfolio. Here’s how to do that: 

• Follow the resume trends adored by hiring people. Don’t go overboard with formatting; stick to classic, neat structures, and make the information easy to scan.
• Do your homework before each interview, meaning you know a lot about the company. That could include their products, Moto, and the people they wish to hire.
• Build a portfolio of work: you can do this even without getting assignments from anyone. If you’re a programmer, work on a simple app to showcase your coding skills. If you’re a graphic designer, produce some art to impress.
• Consider applying for internships. Of course, you would ideally do this while you are still in college, but better late than never. 
• If you have always dreamed of working at specific companies, send your resume and cover letter, even if there is no direct job listing. You can find the email address for such correspondence on their career pages.
• Visit networking events to establish connections with people relevant to your intended role/industry.

Why Working And Internships Are Crucial While Studying 

If you’re still in college or university, take some time to have fun, but don’t forget your ultimate goal: to enter the industry you study for. Applying for internships or junior work while still in college helps you build a more impressive resume. Given the decreased number of open positions, such experience gives you the edge that many graduates do not have.

Conclusion

Finishing your studies might be everything you have dreamed of. However, the harsh reality is that landing a job has never been easy, and now, the cards are stacked even more against you. 

Regardless of the job market freeze, you can build your resume and skills, and continue applying to the listings you do discover. Over time, you will score a position, which opens even more doors and gifts you with pleasant memories! Until that happens, take temporary jobs and explore online earning options.