Once it seemed like landing a degree was the last major obstacle in reaching a life of security and comfort. So there I was, ready to leave varsity, cheap beer, and two-minute noodles behind forever. Like a majestic falcon leaving the nest I was going to soar into a new chapter of life – one with roots, stability and pricey woolies food. Hey, I was even considering getting a dog…
1. Having a degree does not guarantee a job
Getting a degree is never a waste of time but I found that it didn’t mean I could sit back and relax. In the chocolate factory of job opportunities it was absolutely not a golden ticket. In fact there is no golden ticket, there is no hard and fast.
I found that using what I had learned to compliment other skills or as a foundation to build on was what mattered more than my fancy certificate. A degree didn’t prepare me for the working world – there’s always more to learn and there’s no substitute for experience.
2. Expect rejection and don’t take it personally
“ But my mummy thinks I’m special”. No. Hearing that you’re not the right person for the job is not easy- even when you can accept it might be true. I had to learn quickly to accept rejection and move on.
Being told “no thanks” sapped momentum at first but later on I realized the value of learning what people weren’t looking for. Being shown the door helped me make course-corrections and taught me how to market myself better.
I always asked for feedback no matter the outcome – which people appreciated. Accepting rejection gracefully ended up being worthwhile because even just meeting people and getting my name out there was worth a lot.
3. Learn to market yourself
This was something I had no idea how to do. Parading my achievements and every little deed of note, things that seemed minor as picking my nose, felt like arrogance. I thought my degree would speak for itself but qualifications only carry you a bit of the way. Marketing myself ended up being just as much about showing my communication skills, experience and proving my willingness to learn and be flexible.
I learned to show my potential and long-term value – and also my temperament. Enthusiasm is under-rated. Crank up the dorkiness because being cool, and aloof is a luxury. Most of all, though I had to appreciate and showcase how I was different. The best parts of myself the ones most attractive to potential employers, didn’t end up being my qualifications – my interests and my hobbies, the things I was passionate about, spoke volumes more than my degree.
4. Call in all the favours you can
I was never the type of person that felt comfortable asking for help – and even less comfortable when people offered it unasked. But what good is it having friends if can’t exploit them now an again? Networking was the most worthwhile and fruitful activity I undertook looking for that first elusive job. The wise words of Uncle Ben as usual, ring true, “ with great power comes great responsibility”- getting introductions and referrals should not be taken lightly as you are now representing whoever was kind enough to help you out. I had to learn to conduct myself accordingly.
Getting to meet people in the field I was interested in, hearing their stories and listening to their opinions not only helped me get my foot in the door, but it also was a great learning experience and helped me acclimatize. Being humble and willing to defer your opinion to those of greater experience can be really difficult but learning how to ask people for help was a great lesson.
Speaking to people, finding mentors and networking also taught me to adjust my expectations. I had no idea what I was “worth” and getting insight into what I should expect- particularly financially was jarring (and a bit sobering,- goodbye Woolies food). However I did also learn to spot when I was being taken advantage of.
5. Looking for my first job was a bit like speed-dating
I had to quickly (and politely) find out if my interests and goals and those of my potential employers matched-up. This required honesty on my part, and questions.
To ask the right questions I had to know the company and what I was talking about. Also, like any date, a bit of flattery is required – people want to know that they’re your first choice. The more questions I asked, the more enthusiastic and excited I was about a company- the more they felt the same way about me.
6. Be respectful. Be kind (It’s a small world)
Leaving off half-finished email conversations, not following-up and not thanking people for their advice or time (even if they rejected you) leaves a bad impression. Cape Town is a small place and everyone knows everyone. I soon figured out that if you piss someone off – you’re going to have a bad time.
In every step you take (∼ every move you make ∼) be respectful.
I continue to find it difficult to juggle the many conversations and online relationships that spring up through networking but I know it’s worthwhile to do my best at it.
Respect and being able to deal with tough situations (such as being rejected for a job) gracefully make a really good impression which leaves doors open to positive future interactions and opportunities.
Leave a Reply