When you’re getting close to graduating college, or you’re just starting out in your career, you will always want to know that you can do well. Nobody ever wants to feel as if they’re going to fail. You want to know that you’re doing everything you can to get to where you want to be. But it’s hard. Because you can’t always see the future or know what’s going to get you the results you want. Instead, you have to put the work in and have faith in yourself. Sometimes, when you’re just getting starting, that can terrify you. So it’s always best to know that you’re doing what you need to be doing in order to get things off the ground. But how do you know where to start?
Well, this is where a few key career-boosters will come in. Whether you’re someone that’s looking to get an internship, land a great starting position, or even launch your own company, you’ll want to know that you’re doing all that you can to make it work out. And while you may need to do different things for different jobs, there are a few very general things that you can do to make sure that you get an edge. And yes, this does often mean that you need to work harder or put more time in or push yourself out of your comfort zone. But here are the things that can help you.
1. Networking
To start with, you need to make sure that you’re putting yourself out there. Because you’ll never really know where your relationships can take you. This is why you will need to join networking groups, go to industry events, and try to connect with people in your industry.
2. Mentorship
From here, you may find that getting a mentor is really good for you. If you’re worried that you’re not on track or you want some advice, mentorship can be invaluable. When it comes to mentorship programs and initiatives, like Gross Labs and Team Rogue are doing, really suss out what you need. Make sure that you’re choosing the right person or people to support you, and you will find that this is beneficial.
3. Accountability Groups
But then also, it might be worthwhile to join an accountability group. Or start one yourself. For this, you could each work together to hold each other accountable or to provide support, during the job hunt process. But not only that, you may also want to do something similar for growth. Because when you have other holding you accountable for your goals, you’re more likely to achieve them.
4. Social Media
Yes, this one is a form of networking, but it’s also a great branding and publicity tool. Because your social media can get you noticed, allows you to have a platform, and can help you to connect with those that you want to know. So make use of it. Make sure that you’re on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram – any platform that is relevant to your industry. And start to connect and brand yourself as you want to be seen.
5. Blogging
But also, you might like to think about starting a blog. This is something that can also allow you to establish yourself in the industry. If you want to think about ways in which you can get your opinions and expertise out into the industry, showcase your work and your ideas, and just generally connect with people, blogging can help you with that. So think about setting up a website and getting started today.
6. A Portfolio
And, of course, you are going to need a portfolio too. A professional portfolio allows you to demonstrate the things that you’re talking about in an interview. It can also get you the interview in the first place. So, as you’re interning, and then throughout your career, collate things that you’ve achieved so that you have evidence of what you’re saying you’ve done and what you’re skilled at.
7. Persistence
Now, the very last thing that will always work in your favor when done correctly, is persistence. Because if you’re someone that is very persistent, that’s always chasing up loose ends, and that goes the extra mile, you will stand out. But remember, there can be a fine line between persistence and harassment! So yes, make sure that you really get in front of the recruiters or the people that you want to impress, but not in a forceful kind of way!
No comments yet.