How to Slay the Job Market: A Gen Z Playbook for Pre-Graduation Employment
Still on that post-grad job hunt grind? Oof, not the vibe. Let’s spill the tea on how the true GOATs are securing that bag before they even say “peace out” to campus life:
Finding a job’s still got most uni kids shook, but the real ones aren’t just sitting pretty, waiting for opportunity to swipe right. Nah, they’re out here writing their own success story and making moves!
Ready to level up? Here’s how the pros are winning the job game before graduation:
1. They’re internship and live project fiends These go-getters know book smarts alone won’t cut it. They’re racking up real-world experience like it’s going out of style. We’re talking multiple internships and live projects that make employers go “
“.
Pro tip: Aim for one gig per year of your degree. Stack that resume!
2. They’re building a portfolio that slaps, not just uploading assignments for grades Forget basic academic assignments. These smarties are curating a fire portfolio showcasing their skills, creativity, and innovation. We’re talking projects, research, and case studies that make employers say “damn!”
Remember: No one cares about your exam scores. They want to see what you can actually do.
Goal: At least one banger project for each year of your degree.
3. They’re networking ninjas Connections are everything! These social butterflies are all over industry events, conferences, and meetups. They’re sliding into LinkedIn DMs, asking for advice, and finding mentors. Today’s small talk could be tomorrow’s job offer.
Mission: Meet 5 new industry pros, students, or potential connects every month. By graduation, you’ll have a squad of 240 people who can vouch for you.
4. They’re not afraid to flex (on stage or behind the scenes) These bold souls are volunteering for speaking gigs, crushing hackathons, and contributing to open-source projects. They’re making sure their name is on everyone’s lips.
Aim for: One spotlight moment each year. Four chances to make your mark!
5. They’re BFFs with their mentors A solid reference can be your golden ticket. These smart cookies are identifying potential mentors, building relationships, and soaking up that wisdom.
Squad goals: 5 ride-or-die mentors by graduation day.
6. They’re learning beyond the classroom These keen beans aren’t just sticking to the syllabus. They’re devouring online courses, hitting up workshops, and staying glued to industry blogs.
Level up: Master 3 topics outside your curriculum. These will be your secret weapons in interviews.
7. They’re giving back and standing out Volunteering shows you’ve got heart, leadership skills, and mad dedication. These do-gooders are finding causes they’re passionate about and making a difference.
Target: One non-profit or cause that gets you fired up.
8. Their LinkedIn game is on point In this digital age, your LinkedIn profile is your calling card. These social media mavens are showcasing their work, dropping knowledge bombs, and sliding into industry leaders’ comments.
Consistency is key: One post per week and 5 fire comments on industry bigwigs’ profiles.
9. They’re squad goals on campus Teamwork makes the dream work! These collaborative queens are joining forces with peers, cooking up innovative projects, and flexing those entrepreneurial muscles.
Boss move: Lead at least one initiative that’s your brainchild.
10. They’re sliding into experts’ DMs (for free!) This is the ultimate power move. These smooth operators are reaching out to senior researchers, academics, and industry experts, offering their skills gratis. They’re playing the long game, snagging that experience, recommendation letter, and LinkedIn endorsement.
Secure the bag: At least 2 projects with glowing recommendations to show for it.
There you have it, fam – the secrets of the job-landing elite. Remember, it’s not just about acing exams; it’s about creating your own opportunities, building your squad, and showing the world what you’re made of.
Now go out there and crush it!
SheSight
