The job search can be intimidating – and where should you start? At KMP we’ve got you covered with some tips for finding your first job once your studies are done and dusted.

Firstly, congratulations on getting your grades! A world of possibility awaits and it’s time to find the path for you. Remember that it’s quite normal to be unsure of what you want to do right now. You may want to spend some time studying the current job market (check out our most recent postings here) and analyse the skills and qualifications required and understand what you might enjoy doing.

Here are five helpful tips for a better job hunting experience:

Choose your path, but remember – this is not forever

Follow your interests, what industries are you enthusiastic about and what did you have a penchant for at university? Are you more people-oriented? Do you imagine being at a desk for forty hours a week? All these questions can guide you toward making the right career choices and finding your first job. However, remind yourself that your first job is just that – you may like it and decide it’s the path for you but you may want to explore other options and that’s OK. To make it more manageable, think instead about what you want to do for the next year or two.

Adapt your application

Whatever you decide on, make sure that you adapt your application accordingly. Employers do not like to see catchall CVs. It will show you’ve put in the extra effort if you adapt your resume to the job in question. In applications demonstrate your passion for that industry and knowledge for that path.

Be proactive

Your job hunt is a continuous process. Assess yourself and understand your aptitudes, values and interests as this will guide you in your search and throughout your working life. Ask friends and family who might work in your field of interest to give you some insider knowledge which will help in finding your first job. Inquire about possible career paths in the field, salaries and whether they know of any opportunities coming up. Networking is a tool that will always come in handy. Search career pages of companies you like and do not hesitate to get in touch to let them know you are looking for a job and that you admire what they do – whether or not they have open applications.

Tap into online resources

Show your interests by following pages and companies you admire or who are leaders in your fields of interest. Do not hesitate to engage with them on their posts. Reach out to recruiters and Keepmeposted to stay in the loop regarding recent posts and hot jobs in Malta right now. Make sure your profile on all social platforms is polished – post a quality profile picture and, where applicable, update your tagline with your interests or University major and update your skill set. Keep in mind most employers will use social media to screen candidates so make sure you put your best foot forward. Subscribe to Keepmeposted and follow our blogs for valuable resources on the job market and how to ace it at your job – once you find it.

Keep learning

We would all like to think that getting a degree from University will set you for life, but the truth is that to remain relevant in your field you have to keep learning. There are a variety of courses available online which will help you add a few skills to your resume. Many websites offer short courses to sharpen your skill set such as Skillshare or Udemy. You may also want to read some books or articles by industry leaders and follow pages and field-relevant websites to stay in the loop about recent advancements in the field.

Good luck on your job search and make sure to enjoy this exciting next step in your life.