What are a few useful things that you can do to just get going as you apply for jobs?

So, even though I am in the ‘encouragement business’ of supporting young people as they prepare for their next chapter, I meet them ordinarily when there is an interview on the horizon.  Just having a point to focus provides the initial frame work for our discussions.  But when meeting with a graduate who still has absolutely no idea as to where to even start – then the approach to start the conversation differs.

Firstly – just start that CV.  Use this as a trigger to ask the questions:

What have I done thus far that fires me up?  

What have I been good at?  

What are the conversations that I WANT to be having with others?  

What has led me into this avenue thus far?  

IF I were to start studying again, what else would I learn about?  

What kind of environment do I know that I feel best rooted in?  

When are the times that I am really energised and absorbed – what area of work would give me that?

What do I care about?  What matters to me?

IF I were to send my CV (and follow up with a telephone call) to ONE company today – which company?  The point here is to just send in ONE application.  Give yourself that one very manageable task.  PRIOR to sending in your CV, research the company and address the questions in your covering letter as to what you would like to offer that company interns of your own skills and why that company resonates with your own values.  

You will find that once you actually start this process, then there will be ANOTHER organisation that you are curious about and would like to apply to … and then another and then another.  In just getting started so momentum will build, your letters and applications will become better and better and you will be learning about yourself and various industries that are beginning to really interest you.

Yes, I know, there are just so so many different arenas within the workplace but as you start, reassure yourself that more and more clarity come your way as you work through the process.  

Because you are wanting to open doors into the working world, your approach to this time makes a difference too: 

Looking for work is a job in itself – honour this;

Do the work on a clear desk – in a space that can be private;

Dress for the occasion – see yourself already as that professional;

Carve out a schedule that prioritises this time (knowing that you are being rigorous in your search will really lessen overwhelm of the task);  

In keeping a notepad and pen at hand, you can keep a list going of ‘other’ ideas that you will be having;

And do keep reminding yourself that you are equipped and very able – that you have what a company is looking for and that you are excited about the prospects of working.

Why getting the mindset right is so imperative is because it gives the energy required for the perseverance and resilience that will enable your to keep going, despite hurdles.  

This is the work now that YOU need to do, but my hope and prayer is that this time will also be rewarding and you will gather so many insights along the way that will teach you, inspire you and direct you.

And keep talking to yourself as if you are the worlds greatest encouraging coach!