Rules of Getting Hired

It is important to do the necessary groundwork before you start your job search.

Finding promising job leads through various platforms is the easy part of the job hunting process. Attracting recruiters and successfully getting hired is a different ball game altogether. Besides impressive paper qualifications, you will need to prep, plan and take positive action in order to boost your chances of standing out among other candidates and grabbing recruiters’ attention!

Rule 1: Start your prep work early

Job hunting is so much more than just churning out applications to prospective employers. Your preparation should begin even when you are still in school as it will take time for you to gain industry knowledge and build the right connections. These two factors are especially important as they will greatly help you get hired.

Research is important

• Do not wait until the application process is underway to do your research. Start early and maximise as many sources as you can. For instance, talk to seniors who are already working to find out about their experience thus far.

• Understand the job market and manage your expectations about different roles. This will help you plan your education and career, especially when you are applying for internships or picking majors. • Keep abreast of both local and international current affairs, as well as industry-specific news. Awareness of these will showcase your genuine enthusiasm and interest in the job during the recruitment process.

Rule 2: Build your network

Networking is a great way to learn about a particular industry and scout around for job opportunities that may not be advertised. It is also an excellent way to meet people with similar professional interests and career goals.

Widen your network

• Families and friends are the easiest way to start growing your network. You can tell them about your career plans and who knows – they might connect you with an important contact that could help you in your job application. • Keep in touch with contacts from past work experiences or internships through platforms like LinkedIn or even over email. • Attend networking sessions student clubs or societies organise, or look at event platforms that promote sessions based on collective interests.

Rule 3: Expand your job search

To truly optimise your job search process, do not limit yourself to specific employers or roles. Be open to different job opportunities, while still keeping in mind that they should also match your ultimate career goals.

Do not limit your job search

• Instead of staking all your hopes on big and popular employers, consider applying to roles in both big and small companies. As a fresh graduate trying to get ahead in your career, you should accumulate as much relevant experience and skills as you can, which can be acquired regardless of the size of the employer. • Consider different roles that may have a similar job scope or those that may help you develop skills that you are keen on picking up. List them down for reference as you trawl through job sites while doing your research. • Not all job vacancies are advertised, so do not restrict your search to just job portals. You could look for leads on the employers’ websites, or send in speculative applications to showcase your interest in working for specific employers.

Rule 4: Be proactive

Job opportunities will not be handed to you on a silver platter. There is no other way to get yourself out there except to be proactive and take action throughout the process. So work hard and do not let opportunities slip away!

Persevere

• Regardless of the economic climate, you should remain positive about your job hunt. Be patient and keep a positive mindset.

Follow up

• Follow up emails after a meeting or a networking session with a potential employer can influence a recruiter’s decision to shortlist you as a potential candidate. • Reply to prospective employers promptly as some may be rushing to fill the position. Do not risk losing out!