You’ve spent years hitting the books, attending lectures and cramming for exams. Finally, you hold that degree in your hand, and it feels like a golden ticket into your chosen career path. But graduating from university is rarely that straightforward. The gap between finishing university and starting your career can be wide and challenging.
As someone who recently began a new role at Smith Goodfellow, I’m excited to finally pursue a career aligned with my passions and goals – I have a degree in English Literature and Film Studies, with a particular interest in Media Psychology and Advertising. However, it took six years after earning my degree to step into my desired career. This is a recurring theme amongst graduates, so let’s explore why that is and what you can do about it.
The rush to find a job
One of the biggest pressures new graduates face is the need to support themselves financially. The urgency to land a job quickly is compounded by the expectations of family and loved ones to get out there and start earning! This pressure can lead to a rush to accept any job that pays the bills and offers you stability. For many, this means taking roles in unrelated fields such as retail or hospitality. While these jobs are crucial and valuable, they might not align with your long-term career goals.
The vicious cycle of unrelated jobs
Once you start working in a job unrelated to your field, it’s easy to get comfortable. The steady income and familiar routine can make it hard to leave. Before you know it, months or even years have gone by, and you’re still in the same role. This can create a vicious cycle where you’re gaining experience, but not the kind that helps you transition into your desired industry.
The graduate scheme conundrum
Graduate schemes are often touted as the only avenue to breaking into your field. They offer structured training and a clear career path. However, getting into these schemes is no walk in the park. They’re highly competitive, with stringent criteria and limited spots. Plus, not all industries offer them, making it even harder for some graduates to find a foothold.
The experience paradox
One of the most frustrating aspects of job searching is the experience paradox: you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience. Many entry-level positions still require one or two years of industry experience, which can feel like a Catch-22 for new grads. This paradox can make the transition from university to industry seem almost impossible.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on my journey, there are key lessons I’ve learned that could help others bridge the gap between graduation and their desired career:
Work hard and get the best grades possible: It may sound obvious, but your grades do matter, especially for competitive graduate schemes. They can open doors and set you apart from other candidates.
Take initiative with freelance work or unpaid experience: Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek out freelance work, internships, or even write for blogs in your field. This not only builds your portfolio but also demonstrates your proactive attitude to potential employers.
Network, network, network: Connecting with professionals in your industry can be invaluable. Use LinkedIn, attend industry events, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people for informational interviews. Networking can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t being advertised.
Consider further education or certifications: Sometimes, additional qualifications can make a big difference. Specialised certifications or short courses in your field can give you an edge over other candidates.
The silver lining of a delayed start
Although I reflect on why it took me so long to work within my chosen industry, starting a dream role later in your career can be a hidden blessing. By the time you land that role, you may feel better prepared to handle the responsibility and pressure that comes with it, rather than landing a position before you felt ready and not delivering full potential.
I now have life experience and transferable skills from varied and challenging roles that an individual going straight into their chosen field after university might not have. As they say, you don’t really know people until you’ve worked in customer service!
Moving forward
Remember, every career path is different, and it’s okay if it takes a bit longer to get where you want to be. Keep moving forward, stay motivated, and make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Good luck!
We’re thrilled to welcome Jenny to the SG family where she joins us in the role of Team Administrator. We’re excited to support her aspirations as she moves into her chosen career in PR and marketing and we can’t wait to see what she brings to the team!
Think you might be interested in working for us too? Be sure to keep an eye on our vacancies page and follow us on LinkedIn to see when new opportunities come up!
Update 11/10/24: I am now enjoying an expanded role as Smith Goodfellow’s Team Administrator and Account Executive!