As graduation approaches, it’s essential to consider the competitive job market and the need to stand out from the crowd. In today’s society, academic qualifications alone may not be enough to secure your desired job. Therefore, it’s crucial to take advantage of the time in college to improve your employability.

In this article, we’ll take you through seven effective career tips that will give you a significant headstart among your peers. With graduation approaching, it’s the perfect opportunity to gain an edge over your peers and make yourself stand out to potential employers.

1. Set up your Linkedin account

In today’s job market, networking through LinkedIn has become essential for everyone, including graduate students seeking job opportunities. However, creating a LinkedIn profile is not enough. To make the most of this platform, developing a strong profile and optimising it for recruiters to find you before or post-graduation is crucial.

To get started, you can follow these steps:

1. Customise your URL. Choosing a URL that includes your full name is best.
2. Upload a professional photo that is not a selfie or can be deemed as a casual picture.
3. Highlight relevant education and work experiences; list your academic and professional accomplishments that are in line with your career goals.
4. Fill out additional profile sections by showcasing your certifications, awards, languages, and up-to-date skills to make your profile stand out.
5. Display examples of your work by sharing design portfolios, personal projects, analyses, or video edits to demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
6. Build your network: Start by connecting with your professors, classmates, and colleagues, and expand gradually to individuals working in your dream jobs and companies.

By creating a compelling LinkedIn profile and expanding your network, you can enhance your job prospects and increase your chances of success in the job market.

To further expand your reach and increase your chances of landing your dream job, you can join a diverse set of closed groups offering unique networking opportunities. For instance, you can join online groups on social media platforms like Facebook, specifically designed for business networking. There are also closed groups on these social media platforms that cater to people from a specific profession or share a common interest, and the primary purpose of such groups is to share ideas and information. Additionally, community groups can be great for business networking and building professional relationships.

2. Collate reference letters and testimonials

Testimonials and reference letters from previous professors, colleagues, and hiring managers from past internships can prove your qualifications and abilities. While it may feel uncomfortable to ask for these letters, they can help your job prospects and validate your resume. Contact individuals who can speak to your strengths and accomplishments and request a reference letter before graduation!

3. Update your resume

As you embark on your job-hunting journey, ensure your resume is up-to-date with your latest skills and experience. Your resume is the most essential document you need to have during this process. If you’ve earned new certifications, gained volunteer experience, or updated contact information, it’s time to refresh your resume. Keeping your resume current demonstrates your commitment to your career growth and progression, setting you apart from other job seekers.

4. Craft your cover letter

Although some job postings may not explicitly require a cover letter, including one can give you an edge over other applicants vying for the same position. Crafting a compelling cover letter demonstrates your interest in the company and showcases relevant skills that can help you stand out to hiring committees.

Consider the cover letter as an opportunity to highlight how your qualifications and experience match the job requirements and how you can contribute to the company’s success. A well-written cover letter can provide additional context and personality that a resume cannot convey, making you a more memorable candidate.

Get a Headstart on Your Career Before Graduation

As international students in Australia approach graduation, the uncertainty of the next steps in their career journey may become overwhelming. However, it’s important to remember there will always be resources available to help you along your journey! University career services, online networking platforms, and job search websites can all provide valuable support and guidance in navigating the job market.

Along with implementing the career tips discussed in this article, such as building a strong online presence and crafting a compelling cover letter, students can gain a competitive edge by networking with people living in the same student accommodations. Y Suites offers an excellent opportunity for international students to expand their professional network by engaging with other residents and participating in social events. This can lead to connections with individuals from various industries, potentially opening doors for valuable career opportunities.

Networking is essential to building a successful career and living in student housing facilities like Y Suites can help students foster a sense of community and support during the transition to post-graduation job hunting. Social events such as networking mixers and career workshops can help students break the ice with their fellow residents and industry professionals.

Remember, the journey from graduation to employment may not always be easy, but with determination, hard work, and a willingness to learn and grow, you can overcome any obstacles and achieve success in your chosen career path. By taking advantage of the available resources and building a strong professional network, you can position yourself for success and confidently move towards your goals.