Eight Steps To Help You Transition To The Workforce

This post is presented in collaboration with the Australian Government’s jobactive website.

Getting a job is a bit easier said than done these days.

For those about to finish school, your elation has probably already been subsumed by reality: It's time to get a job.

Yep, in the famous and very inspiring words of Rihanna, it's time to get to...

We know you're probably gearing up for the end of year break, but it's never too early to start sussing out your options.

Here are eight short and sweet steps to help you get your foot in the workforce door.

1. Update your resume.

Everything’s digital now, so have a well organised job folder to store an updated version of your CV and any written references. You'll want to always have those files on hand. Most places only take digital resumes these days, but it’s not a bad idea to keep a paper copy on you. If you’re sending a digital copy, make sure you hyperlink things like your website, blog or email address. You want the employer to navigate your resume as easily as possible.

2. Do an internship.

We're sure you’ve heard it all before, but experience really is invaluable. However, you’ll be surprised by how much fun you might have during an internship, especially if it’s in a field or industry you want to pursue. It’s important to put your best foot forward and let people know that you’re keen and ready. Basically, be sure to make the right connections. (Network, work, work, work, work...)

3. Search the jobactive website.

The Internet is literally amazing. Back in the day, you’d probably only hear about jobs by trawling through newspaper adverts, by word of mouth or via carrier pigeon. These days, there are actual search engines specifically designed to help match people up with jobs. (What a time to be alive.) If going this route, it’s great to use a site that has a huge pool of potential jobs. The jobactive website is a great option, because it aggregates jobs from across Australia. If you want to be more succinct, you can even select locations and industries. There's also an app for it (on Apple and Android). Like I said, the Internet is an amazing place.

4. Pick up a short course.

Certain jobs will actually require you to have certification in order to qualify. Some of the most common ones include RSA and coffee-making (yes, it’s a thing that requires certification); they can also include health and safety courses. Consider places that offer short courses in your local area; you might just find one that’s super convenient and you might meet similar people and create friends and opportunities along the way too.

5. Interview aftercare.

Yes, interviews: a very scary thing that are totally fine to be nervous about. You can, of course, try to prepare for these by asking yourself common questions (hey, we’ve got an article on that!). What’s equally as important is how you conduct yourself afterwards. Send an email to say thanks for their interviewer's time and to reassert your eagerness for the job. If you think things went poorly, you can always ask for feedback. No guarantees they’ll give you any - it’s nonetheless a good chance to show them that you’re willing to learn and take on board valuable advice. Who knows? You might just be next on their list.

6. YOLO: Take every opportunity.

Okay, silly use of a dated acronym, but seriously: You do only live once and you don’t want to experience FOMO (again, dated acronym, but very true). There are only a few feelings worse in life than having “fear of missing out”. If you see a job that piques your interest, go for it. Even if you think your criteria is a smidge off mark, don’t let any opportunity pass by unnoticed. As Nike would say, just do it, TBH.

7. Prepare for rejection.

The sad truth is everyone gets rejected at one point or another. The harsh realities of life come crashing down upon us, yet the human resilience is strong! If you’re rejected for a job, tell yourself you're one step closer to a gig that’s completely the right fit. So yeah, own that rejection.

8. Make the most of your weekend.

Because you’re gonna have to. That nine-to-five, full time job is gonna be both a blessing and a curse. Don’t forget about all those hobbies you loved before your new job - you can still get around to them on the weekends. You’ll need to have a solid work/life balance. Take up a weekend activity or just lounge around at home. Do whatever you need to feel as though your life isn’t just work and nothing else.

Australian Government’s jobactive website lists thousands of jobs every day and connects job seekers with employers. So if you're looking for work, get started right away with the job search tool. Begin your job search here. jobactive is available on Apple and Android.

Photo: iStock.