She Strengthens

The Unspoken Truth About Job Hunting

After graduation, many of us face the daunting task of entering the job market. My friend’s story is a familiar one – she had sent out countless resumes, completed numerous applications, and yet, received nothing but rejection emails. It’s easy to blame external factors, but the truth is, a successful job hunt requires more than just applying to job postings.

The Importance of Self-Improvement

A successful job hunt is akin to training for a long-distance marathon. It’s not just about showing up on race day; it’s about the preparation, dedication, and hard work that goes into it. As ultra-marathon runner Scott Jurek puts it, “It’s how you go about your business” that defines your outcome.

Going Beyond the Basics

My friend’s initial reaction to my advice was that it seemed like overkill. But I knew that simply applying to job postings wasn’t enough. A successful job hunt requires a continuous commitment to improving oneself and one’s skills. It means learning more about your field, connecting with mentors, gaining experience through internships, and practicing every possible interview question.

A Personal Lesson Learned

I, too, once thought that a successful job hunt was just about applying to job postings. But my experience in a co-op program taught me otherwise. After securing my first internship with ease, I assumed that the same approach would work again. However, my laziness caught up with me, and I went months without a single interview. It was then that I realized the importance of going beyond the basics.

Stepping Up My Game

I changed my approach and started researching companies, networking with current employees, reading books on self-development, and preparing for interviews. It was a lot of work, but it paid off when I secured my second internship with a reputable government department.

The Results Speak for Themselves

If you’re struggling to find a job, take a moment to reflect on your approach. Have you done everything possible to prepare? Have you researched companies, studied their history and values, and sought advice from mentors? If not, you’re not doing enough to increase your chances of securing a job. My approach may be time-consuming, but it’s foolproof. Commit to an eclectic job hunt strategy, and you will see results.