Congratulations! After years of hard work, you’ve graduated and are now officially among the ranks of degree-holding job candidates. But what if you discover that you don’t actually want a job in the field your degree is in? This can be an extremely disheartening revelation for many graduates, but don’t worry. You’re not alone. What you want to do in your 20’s is often vastly different than what you thought you wanted to do when you left high school and lots of people choose to make a change early in their career. Use these strategies if you’re looking for a job outside of your degree field.
“The first ten years after graduation creates a story to your future. This is a pivotal point and if you want to change fields then don’t be afraid. Keep in mind that if you’re in a role, you should prove that you are successful in that role with real accomplishments and progression before you make a change. This is transferable and will help you pivot yourself as a winner into your next move!” says Sharon Tsao, Owner, Contemporary Staffing Solutions.
Determine Fields You’re More Interested In
Sit down and think about what it is you don’t like about your major. Is it the thought of sitting in front of a computer all day? Is the industry’s job market volatile? Are the salaries too low to help you pay off your debt and achieve your goals? Research fields that might meet your current standards and goals.
Once you know what you want to do, spend time looking into entry-level job requirements. In many fields, it’s not the type of degree that matters, just that you have one. See if you can leverage transferable skills you learned in school, during internships or on part-time jobs to get your foot in the door.
Determine Industries Your More Interested In
Do you find passion with relationships? Is your desire to work with complex products that you can help transition them into a company and get them to work? Do you love serving others and seeing them bloom and grow? Review what industries are booming in your market place and see if you can align with any of them! Drill this down to the positions available in that industry and see if you fit.
Close Skill Gaps If Necessary
While you might not be thrilled at the thought of heading back to school, you may need to close some important skill gaps before you enter a new field. However, there are inexpensive and even free ways to grow your skills both online and in person. Determine which skills you need to develop and look for classes or certification programs to beef up your resume.
Open Yourself To A “Non-Traditional” Approach
Find a recruiter that works with recent college graduates to help them get out into the workforce. As you develop a plan for your career, your recruiter can help you find a position your desired field, and they can help you adjust your resume to showcase the right skills and experience to catch a hiring manager’s eye.
Recruiters can also connect you with temporary and contract positions which can be excellent starting points for figuring out what you want to do and the type of company you ultimately want to work for full-time. Opening yourself to short-term project work will expose you to a variety of organizations and will allow you to get a feel for what it is you truly want out of your career.
Work With The Recruiters At CSS
If you are a recent college graduate who is looking to get your career off the ground, the recruiters at Contemporary Staffing Solutions are here to help. We will partner with you to match you with positions that align with your goals. Contact us to learn more about our commitment to your success.