The Harsh Reality about the Job Market

The job market is more competitive than ever and so are the demands on potential candidates.

Many freshmen enter college with a strong belief that once they graduate with a degree in their pocket, employers will line up at their doorstep with job offers. While this may have been true a few years ago, today’s reality is much different. Most entry level positions require: a bachelor’s degree; a few relevant internship experiences; one to three years of post-graduate work experience; proficiency in specific software applications; a proven track record in the given field etc. For many roles, the desired qualifications go even further.

So how do you get an “entry-level position” that requires mid-level experience?

There may be no solid answer to this question, but there is a reason for this phenomenon. If 50 candidates apply for an average position — so employers need to set their standards high to filter out the best candidates.

If you want to land your dream job, you’ll have to work hard. Let’s be honest — your Economics B.A. will not make you the next Wolf of Wall Street. Paving your way to success will be an uphill battle. So roll up your sleeves and be ready to work for your opportunity.

As a rookie applicant, you might have to settle for a sub-optimal position, like an unpaid internship. Your first job might not be ideal, but it can equip you with necessary skills and valuable lessons that will propel you closer to your dream job. Plus, it is going to give you the post-graduate experience that you need. Build your reputation with a great work ethic and a willingness to learn from the other people you are working with.

Don’t be afraid to work for free.

Look for opportunities where you can use your skills to help others. While they gain free labor, you gain the professional experience that’s in such high demand. Through freelance work, you could build great contacts, who might even recommend you later on. Take advantage of any free resources you can. For example, we live in a time when Harvard and MIT courses are freely available online! Google and YouTube are your best friends for boosting your qualifications at zero cost to you.

Most often, opportunity takes form as hard work.

As long as you realize you are responsible for seeking out opportunities, you are on the right track. Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get the job that you want right away. With creativity, dedication and patience you can land your dream job – just get ready to work for it.