September is a month I get quite excited about because it’s a time, very much like New Year, that is associated with new beginnings and fresh starts. Although this can be a motivating time, it can also be very daunting- particularly for those of you who are on the brink of graduation, or those who have just graduated. 

At this stage, some of your friends may be already starting their first jobs and you may not have had so much as one invitation for an interview. Whatever your situation is, FEAR NOT. Whether you’re in the job application process now for your first job, looking to start a new career path or just generally interested in exploring your options, I’ve written a few things which may help you get started in your job search!  

BRAINSTORM

I’m a planner by nature, so I always think this is a good place to start. Grab a pen and paper, or even the notes section on your phone and start thinking about these next few things: What are your personal strengths? What are your interests? What are some qualities you want in a job? Try to disregard the practical things and the obstacles you may be facing at this stage, it’s important to get the biggest and clearest vision of what you would like for yourself. 

No job is perfect, however you can start categorising what your non-negotiables are. For example, are you happy to work weekends? Would you want a job that keeps you off the desk or are you more suited to an office environment? Do you want flexible hours or do you prefer a 9-5 structure? This may not give you all the answers that you need but it’ll certainly help you get in touch with your basic ideas and give you a springboard to start your job search. 

PRO-ACTIVTY

Internet sites and online job adverts are extremely useful for us, and it certainly helps to narrow with our search. However it might be worth trying to contact employers with a personal letter or even investigate companies that may not be hiring, but that you would be keen to have a chat with should any opportunities come up. 

Not only does it show the company that you’re interested in what they do, but it also demonstrates passion and initiative on your behalf. Job hunting is a minefield and it can be quite hard to stand out, but a little bit of pro-activity may advance your chances if people can put a face to a name. 

VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering benefits are twofold: great for your CV and presenting possible opportunities as well as enriching the lives of others. If you’re even unsure of what job you would like, then just try and offer your services to an institution/ charity/ company or person that you are genuinely interested in helping. 

MONEY TO MOVE

Try and dream up some places you would love to live and work in. Job searching can be so daunting, but thinking about destinations that you’d like to end up in is both exciting and motivating!

I appreciate that many of us may not have the means to look freely at wherever we wish to work straight away. In any case, start off just trying to save some money. Granted, this may not be through your dream job, but if you can get yourself in a position where you are financially independent, you may be able to grasp more opportunities to venture out. 

Remember, your job isn’t the be all, end all. You have to be comfortable and happy with where you are living too. 

If you take anything away from this month’s blog post, it would be that it is OKAY not to know what you want to do. Some people will be set on their paths, others will have a couple of paths they want to follow and many of us are so confused that we can’t see a clear path ahead. Regardless, try not to look around you and make sure you focus on your own progress this September. 

With a different mindset, this can be such an exciting time- so enjoy the process and good luck with the search!

Written by Emily Hope

@eminemmz - Twitter/ Instagram