What next after school? Work. Getting a job is not easy. But landing one in a career of your choice takes work, time, effort, exposure and the right people. Even those who get good jobs straight out of university still have to look for ways of progressing up the career ladder.
Here are ways to find opportunities that will take you further in your career journey.
Networking
Networking is a goldmine of big career opportunities. Many juicy jobs are rarely advertised. Only people in the know get the chance to apply for them. This is where the power of association comes in.
Being friendly with top executives keeps you informed of what’s happening in the big offices. So, talk to people, attend business conferences, join professional associations and make many contacts in your profession. These contacts will always let you know of any career opportunity.
Former bosses, colleagues, friends can inform you of who is hiring at the moment. Not to forget, colleagues can easily refer you for a position that they feel you qualify for. It never hurts to make more friends. The more extensive your network, the more likely you are to find new job opportunities.
Career websites
Career websites have made job searching much easier. Gone are the days when looking for jobs entailed you to move from office to office. The internet has made things easier. Nowadays, you can browse through online job sites like Brighter Monday, Uganda Jobline, Fuzu, and so on. And after finding a job post that matches your CV, you can apply online using the link in the job listing.
To find the best career opportunity online, frequently or regularly check on the available job posts. Don’t stop at that; apply for good jobs. Doing so increases your chances of getting that job you want.
Company websites
Most established companies have functional websites. These websites have a Careers section where job openings are posted.
What’s that company you have always wanted to join? Well, here’s your chance. Regularly check their career section. In due time, you will find the job listing you have been waiting for. To increase your chances of getting employed, do this for a number of companies you would like to work for. And any time a slot comes up, quickly apply.
Social networks
Social networks like LinkedIn are a goldmine of career opportunities. To get the best out of LinkedIn, create an impressive LinkedIn profile. The LinkedIn algorithm connects you to potential recruiters and like-minded professionals.
On top of that, it tailors job listings according to your preference or field of expertise. For best results, check your job listings frequently and connect with many professionals in your field. This increases your chances of getting better-paying jobs globally.
Make use of Internships or Volunteering opportunities
Many interns and volunteers complain about doing work with little or no pay. Let’s be real; this is not about to change. The best way forward is to change your outlook about internships. Look at internship or volunteering as doors to full employment.
For fresh university graduates out there, internships and volunteering can be the best way of finding employment immediately after campus.
Most internships in Uganda lead to permanent placements. And even if they don’t, internships add experience to your CV. They also build valuable contacts in the business world. Contacts that you can use in the future.
Recruitment agencies
The internal staffing process takes time, money and sometimes yields poor results. To get the best talent in the job market, some companies hire recruitment agencies or headhunters. Recruitment agencies specialize in finding the most qualified or suitable candidates to fill a vacant role.
You can submit your CV or apply for a position when a recruiter is seeking talented candidates. If you impress them, recruiters can interview you for the role. So yes, recruitment agencies or staffing and placement services are a viable opportunity to build your career.
Unsolicited applications
Unsolicited applications sometimes work. Pitch your CV even when companies are not looking for new employees. You lose nothing. On the other hand, you let businesses know that you are available. And when any staffing need comes up. The HR will most likely call you.
You can submit your CV physically or send an email with your CV attached to a potential employer. You can also call a business’ HR department and ask about upcoming vacancies.
Unsolicited applications are a game of chance. But sometimes, the companies can follow up on your application. With this in mind, ensure that you submit an updated CV with the correct contact information. A positive response can come your way. The worst that can happen is no feedback at all.
Career fairs
Career fairs bring potential employers to you. Many universities in Uganda hold annual career fairs. In these fairs, finalists get the opportunity to interact with potential employers and discover what is expected of them.
Career fairs target particular organizations or professionals from specific industries. Some of which specifically come to get new recruits. To increase your chances of walking away with a job from a prestigious company, attend the career fair prepared.
Among the companies attending, single out those you would like to work for. Research them and find out what they look for in prospective employees. Use this knowledge to write a good CV and polish your communication and marketing skills. And when you interact with recruiters or company representatives, represent yourself to the best of your ability. Leave each of them with a copy of your CV. This will increase your chance of walking away with a job.
Freelancing
Freelancing is an excellent way of spreading your wings. Most especially if you want to be your own boss while climbing the career ladder. Freelancing is suitable for copywriters, content writers, software development, web design and development, video editors, and other professions that can work independently.
To start your freelancing career, use freelancer sites like Freelancer, Upwork, Fiverr, and Truelancer. These sites connect you to clients hiring freelancers. The beginning is not easy. But the more work you do, the higher you will earn.
Conclusion.
There are many career opportunities out there. All you need are the right people, the right platforms, and the opportune time. But remember to make use of the available opportunities that come your way as you search for a better job.
Lastly, keep knocking on multiple doors. A door will eventually open. Still figuring out which path to take, get some insights from employment consultancy services. You will get great advice about career opportunities out there.