How New Graduates Can Apply For New Jobs?

This is the season for new graduates to test their mettle in the job market , hoping that the investment in a ‘good education’ will pay off. Applications will be sent, interviews given and fingers will be crossed until ‘the call’ comes through.
We have a pecking order of preferred employers, going downs to ones that we accept because ‘we need a job’. As the process drags on, our spirits begin to flag and despondency – nay desperation – creeps in. You begin to question the fairness of the ‘system’ and even end up wondering if you are good enough for anyone.

People who have survived this arduous process will tell you that it is ‘ all part of toughening you up for the challenges ahead. ‘Indeed, dealing with disappointments in a mature manner is the hallmark of people with a high EQ. In this respect, think of actors, dancers and musicians who go through hundreds of casting calls and are given a few seconds to make an impression. In fact, the back story of most actors and successful public figures should serve as an inspiration.

So what does one do while going through this torture? Let me share a few thoughts and examples of what happens when we don’t get what we want.

Life has a way of shaping our future – from what we want to what could be. A friend was disappointed about not getting into an engineering school and went on to do an MBA instead. Today, he heads one of the largest media-buying houses in Pakistan. Another friend has a hard time getting a suitable position in firms of his choice (he was eminently qualified) and today has a successful logistic business recruit hundreds of others.a. Looking back at my own journey ,having been unemployed half a dozen times took me to opportunities i never imagined.

How does any ogre this help you? Simple: you know what you want because you know what you know. However, there is much that you do not know and did not even think of. So put in your best efforts and hope for the best. In addition, be reasonable in your expectations; there are only so many premium jobs in premium companies at top dollar. What you really need to do is make the best of the opportunities that come your way , consolidating your credentials as a professional. When we look back on the tough times in our lives we realise that it was exactly those time that made us tough.

By Leon Menezes. The writer is professor-of-practice at the IBA Karachi, a senior HR Practitioner and an executive coach.

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