10 ways a graduate can manage the period before employment [Daily/weekly routine]

Here, I share casual and engaging tips to help you make the most of this pivotal time, with an emphasis on skill development, networking, personal growth, leveraging online resources, and maintaining a healthy mindset.

Graduates Pulse Live Kenya

Embrace Continuous Learning

Tip: Dive into online courses and workshops that complement your degree. This era’s digital landscape is rich with free or affordable resources on platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning.

Example: Imagine you're a marketing graduate. Supplementing your degree with a Google Analytics certification can make your resume stand out.

Build Your Network Strategically

Tip: Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts; it’s about cultivating meaningful relationships.

Young people using technology Pulse Live Kenya

Attend industry meetups, engage in online forums, and don’t shy away from reaching out to professionals for informational interviews.

Example: Joining professional groups on LinkedIn or platforms like Meetup can lead to unexpected opportunities, like a casual coffee chat turning into a job referral.

Gain Practical Experience

Tip: Seek internships, volunteer roles, or even freelance projects related to your field. Practical experience is invaluable and can often be the bridge between theoretical knowledge and real-world application.

Example: Volunteering for a non-profit that needs marketing support can provide hands-on experience and a project to showcase in your portfolio.

Craft Your Brand

Tip: Use social media and personal websites to your advantage by showcasing your expertise, projects, and professional interests.

A well-maintained LinkedIn profile or a blog can serve as your digital portfolio. Example: A graphic design graduate might use Instagram to display their artwork, attracting potential employers or clients.

Young people having fun and using technology Young people having fun and using technology Pulse Live Kenya

Stay Financially Savvy

Tip: Managing finances post-graduation, especially if unpaid internships are part of your journey, requires savvy planning.

Explore part-time work, freelancing, or budgeting apps to keep your finances in check. Example: Balancing a part-time retail job while seeking positions in your field can provide financial stability without hindering your job search.

Prioritise Mental Health and Well-being

Tip: Job hunting can be stressful. Incorporate activities that promote mental health, like exercise, meditation, or hobbies, into your daily routine.

Example: Starting your day with a short meditation or a walk can help maintain a positive outlook and reduce stress.

Kenya's population is made up of over 9.5 million young people, more than 20 per cent of all Kenyans. (parentsafrica) Pulse Live Kenya

Embrace Failure as Learning

Tip: Rejection is part of the process. Each “no” is an opportunity to gather feedback, refine your approach, and understand better what employers are looking for.

Example: After a rejected application, ask for feedback. This insight can be invaluable for future interviews.

Seek Mentorship

Tip: Finding a mentor in your desired field can provide guidance, support, and insider knowledge that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Example: A mentor can help navigate industry-specific challenges, review your resume, and practice interview skills with you.

Stay Informed About Your Industry

Tip: Keeping up with industry trends, news, and technologies ensures you remain relevant and can contribute meaningfully to conversations with professionals.

Example: Regularly reading industry publications or listening to relevant podcasts can provide talking points for networking events and interviews.

What is the mental space young people are at? [pexels] Pulse Nigeria

Practice Self-Reflection

Tip: Regularly assess your skills, interests, and career goals. Understanding what you truly want can help you make more informed decisions about job opportunities.

Example: Keeping a journal of your job search experiences, feelings, and the skills you want to develop can clarify your career path.

Recommended daily/weekly routine

Morning: Start with a mindfulness exercise or physical activity to set a positive tone for the day.
Mid-Morning: Dedicate time to skill development through online courses or working on personal projects.
Afternoon: Focus on job applications and networking, including reaching out for informational interviews or attending virtual events.
Evening: Engage in a hobby or interest unrelated to your job search to maintain balance and mental health.

This content was generated by an AI model and verified by the author

Check it out here!

10 ways a graduate can manage period before employment [Daily/weekly routine]