Getting Your First Job

See your entry into a new job or career as a chance to focus on your future. In the past you may have sought out career advice and had some idea of the direction you wanted to take. Now the future is here and it is time to start acting on your intentions. At such an important and complex crossroad in your life, a few simple questions can help you to clarify your goals:

• Are you prepared to enter the work force or should you better prepare yourself by studying full-time ?
• What is it exactly that you want to do? What is it exactly that you don’t want to do?
• Do you prefer working for a large corporation or for a smaller, dynamic company? Why?
• Based on your studies and results, what jobs are you best suited to?
• What jobs are you best prepared for in terms of skills, education and experience?
• What would you be able and willing to learn?
• What job fields have you considered entering?

Remember to be realistic and practical. After completing a degree from the State Agricultural University, it’s unlikely that you’ll be hired as a sales manager for a telecommunications company.

• In which region do you want to work?

Again, be realistic. While some areas are undoubtedly pleasant to live in, the demand for say, nuclear physicists, is zero.

• Are you prepared to continue your studies in order to advance your career? Fantastic results at secondary school or at university are just the beginning; Be prepared to deepen and expand your knowledge continuously.
• Are you willing to compromise on your starting salary if your enthusiasm will lead to the opportunity for further education or other benefits?
• Don’t forget that most employers expect employees to have a big hand in their own personal development.
• What factors influence your choice of jobs and employers?
• What organizations offer an interesting career in you point of view?

Carefully think about where you would like to work and answer following questions:

• What are main requirements to be hired?
• What qualifications or experience you will need?
• Would higher formal education be of more help than experience and professional qualifications achieved while working?

Time and effort you will help you analyze your own needs and the needs of a potential employer. Moreover, the time and effort you invest now will pay off manifold both at the start of a new job and throughout your career. It is easy to make a quick decision, particularly when job opportunities seem limited. Changing jobs often is a common occurrence these days, largely because a job for life no longer exists. However, if you invest time and effort into the decision making process, your career development will be easier and less problematic. The decisions you take now will influence the rest of your career.