5 Tips for Starting Your First Job and Succeeding in Your Career

Begging Work and Getting it Right First Time.

As you prepare to leave school and enter the workforce, you may feel excited, nervous, and unsure of what to expect. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can set yourself up for success in your career. Here are five tips to help you navigate your first job after school and beyond.

Build strong relationships with colleagues and mentors.

One of the most important things you can do in your first job is to build strong relationships with your colleagues and mentors. Having a strong network can help you navigate challenges, learn new skills, and advance in your career. According to a study by LinkedIn, 85% of jobs are filled through networking, so taking the time to build relationships can pay off in the long run. To build strong relationships, be a good listener, express interest in your colleagues’ work, and offer to help when you can.

Source: https://business.linkedin.com/talent-solutions/resources/talent-acquisition/using-linkedin-to-find-job-candidates

Continuously learn and improve your skills.

Continuously learning and improving your skills is crucial for success in any career. In today’s rapidly changing world, staying relevant in your field requires ongoing learning and development. Attend conferences, take courses, read industry publications, and seek out new experiences and challenges. According to a study by the World Economic Forum, 54% of all employees will require significant reskilling by 2022, so investing in your skills can help you stay ahead of the curve.

Source: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/future-of-jobs-report-2020/

Communicate effectively with colleagues and managers.

Effective communication is crucial in the workplace, and it’s important to develop strong communication skills early in your career. This includes being a good listener, expressing yourself clearly, and avoiding misunderstandings. According to a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, employers rank communication skills as the most important skill they look for in new hires, so honing your communication skills can give you a competitive edge.

Source: https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/soft-skills-college-grads-need-to-get-a-job/

Take initiative and be proactive.

Taking initiative and being proactive in your work can demonstrate your value to your employer and help you stand out from your peers. Seek out new opportunities, take on additional responsibilities, and demonstrate a willingness to learn and grow. According to a study by LinkedIn, 80% of professionals believe that taking initiative is important for career success.

Source: https://business.linkedin.com/talent-solutions/blog/trends-and-research/2019/soft-skills-that-companies-need-most

Be resilient and adaptable.

The workplace is constantly changing, and the ability to adapt to new situations and bounce back from setbacks is important for success. Focus on developing resilience and adaptability by cultivating a growth mindset, seeking feedback, and learning from mistakes. According to a survey by the Society for Human Resource Management, adaptability and flexibility are two of the most important soft skills employers look for in new hires.

Source: https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/behavioral-competencies/global-and-cultural-effectiveness/Pages/Adaptability-and-Flexibility.aspx

In conclusion, starting your first job after school can be a daunting task, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can set yourself up for success in your career.

FirstJobAfterSchool #CareerAdvice #NewGraduate #SuccessTips #ProfessionalDevelopment #GoalSetting #EffectiveCommunication #Mentorship #TimeManagement #SelfCare

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10 Soft Skills Employers Look for in 2023.

Why mastering these skills is crucial for career success in the new job market.

Starting a career can be daunting, especially for young adults who are just about to leave school or have just started their professional journey. As someone who has been a career coach for over a decade, I have seen first-hand how the job market has evolved and how important it is for school leavers and first-time job hunters to be equipped with the right skills to succeed.

As we look to the future, the job market is bound to change in ways that we can’t even begin to imagine. But one thing we know for sure is that soft skills will always be in demand. With the rise of apps like ChatGPT, who knows what jobs we’ll be doing in a few years, but one thing we do know is that mastering these 10 soft skills will give you a leg up in the new job market.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “But I’m not a softie, I’m a tough, no-nonsense businessperson.” Well think again! According to research, these soft skills are crucial for success in the workplace.

  1. Communication Skills: Sure, you can have all the technical skills in the world, but if you can’t communicate effectively, you’re going nowhere fast. And it’s not just me saying this – a survey by NACE found that 73.4% of employers consider communication skills to be the most important quality in job candidates. You need to be able to articulate your ideas, listen actively, and communicate with people at all levels of the organization.
  2. Critical Thinking: You need to be able to analyse information, make decisions, and evaluate outcomes. And guess what? According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report, critical thinking and problem-solving are among the top 10 skills needed for the future workforce. So, if you want to be a valuable asset to any company, sharpen those critical thinking skills!
  3. Adaptability: In today’s fast-paced job market, being able to adapt to new challenges and changing circumstances is essential. And you don’t have to take my word for it – a report by McKinsey Global Institute predicts that up to 375 million workers worldwide may need to switch occupational categories and learn new skills by 2030. So, it’s time to be flexible and adaptable, folks!
  4. Teamwork: You need to be able to collaborate and communicate effectively with others, and contribute to achieving shared goals. According to a LinkedIn survey, 80% of professionals believe that networking and building relationships are important to career success.
  5. Time management is also crucial. You need to be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage your workload efficiently. And if you’re constantly late, beware! According to a survey by CareerBuilder, 29% of employers say that tardiness is the top productivity killer in the workplace.
  6. Leadership: Even if you’re not in a management position, leadership skills are important. According to a study by Deloitte, leadership is the most important talent issue facing organizations today. Employers value candidates who can take initiative, motivate others, and drive change.
  7. Digital Literacy: Technology is a crucial part of most jobs today. According to a report by Burning Glass Technologies, there is a digital skills gap in the workforce, with more jobs requiring digital skills than workers who possess them. You need to be proficient in using basic software and tools and be able to learn and adapt to new technologies.
  8. Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence involves being aware of and managing your own emotions, as well as understanding and empathizing with others. According to a study by TalentSmart, emotional intelligence is responsible for 58% of a leader’s job performance. Employers value candidates who can work well with others, manage conflicts, and maintain positive relationships.
  9. Creativity is the top-rated skill sought by employers, according to a report by the Conference Board. You need to be able to come up with new and innovative ideas, and think outside the box. Employers value candidates who can bring fresh perspectives and contribute to creative problem-solving.
  10. Professionalism: Professionalism involves demonstrating the appropriate behaviour, attitude, and appearance in the workplace. According to a survey by Accountemps, 93% of executives say that a person’s attire at work influences his or her chances of promotion. You need to be punctual, reliable, and respectful of others.

In conclusion, starting your career can be challenging, but by developing these essential skills, you can increase your chances of success in the workplace. Remember the wise words of Albert Einstein, The measure of intelligence is the ability to change”, so continue to learn and develop these skills throughout your career.

#softskills #careersuccess #jobmarket #communication #criticalthinking #adaptability #teamwork #timemanagement #leadership #digitalliteracy #emotionalintelligence #creativity #professionalism

10 In-Demand Careers for future School Leavers

Are you a school leaver wondering what career path to pursue? Or a parent looking to guide your child towards a stable and rewarding profession? With technological advancements and global shifts in industry, it can be tough to predict which jobs will be in demand in the future. However, based on reports from industry experts, here are 10 careers that are projected to be in high demand in the next 10 years:

  1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Specialists
  2. Data Analysts and Scientists
  3. Cybersecurity Experts
  4. Renewable Energy Technicians
  5. Virtual Reality Designers and Developers
  6. Healthcare Professionals
  7. Robotics Engineers
  8. Sustainable Agriculture Specialists
  9. Creative Professionals
  10. Environmental Scientists and Specialists

To succeed in these careers, it’s important to have the right skills and knowledge. For example, those pursuing a career in AI and machine learning will benefit from programming languages such as Python, R, and Java, as well as statistical analysis and modeling skills. Similarly, cybersecurity experts will need to have knowledge of networking and system administration, security protocols, and threat analysis.

Sustainable agriculture specialists, on the other hand, will need to have knowledge of sustainable farming practices and conservation, soil science, and pest and disease management. And creative professionals will need skills in graphic design, digital media production, writing, and social media management.

As you can see, each career requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. It’s important to keep in mind that the job market is always evolving, and new skills and technologies may become essential in the future. As digital transformation strategist Sukant Ratnakar says, “Our future success is directly proportional to our ability to understand, adopt and integrate new technology into our work.” Therefore, continuous learning and adaptation is key to staying relevant and successful in these careers.

In conclusion, there are a range of career paths available for school leavers and it’s important to choose a profession that aligns with your interests and passions. By focusing on the skills and knowledge required for these 10 in-demand jobs, you can future-proof your career and stay ahead of the curve. As Alan Kay, computer scientist and inventor, says, “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” So why not start inventing your own successful future today?

This post is based on data from the following reports:

  • “The Future of Jobs Report 2020” by the World Economic Forum
  • “The Future of Skills Report” by the Institute for the Future (IFTF)
  • “The Future of Work: Jobs and Skills in 2030” by Pearson and Nesta

#FutureCareerGoals #SkillsForSuccess #TheNextDecade #CareerAdvice #InDemandJobs #BeyondTheClassroom #PrepareForTheFuture #ThrivingInTech #CareerPathfinder #NavigateYourFuture

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your CV or Resume

Are you a recent school leaver who is crafting a CV or resume for the first time? Or are you a parent helping your child create a CV or resume? Either way, it’s important to know what to include – and what to leave out. Your CV or resume is a crucial document that can make or break your chances of getting an interview. To help you avoid some common mistakes, here are five things you should NOT put in your CV or resume:

  • Personal details: Avoid including personal details such as your age, marital status, or religion. These details are irrelevant to your ability to do the job and can even be discriminatory. As a career coach, I always advise my clients to keep their personal information private and only include information that is relevant to their job application.
  • Unprofessional email addresses: Your email address is one of the first things a hiring manager sees when reviewing your CV or resume. It’s important to use a professional email address that includes your name or initials. Avoid using email addresses that are unprofessional, such as “partygirl123” or “skaterdude”. According to a survey by CareerBuilder, “70% of hiring managers believe that an unprofessional email address or social media profile can negatively impact a candidate’s chances of being hired.
  • Irrelevant work experience: When creating your CV or resume, it’s important to focus on relevant work experience. Avoid listing jobs that are not related to the position you are applying for. I always advise my clients to tailor their resume to the job description and highlight their relevant experience.
  • Personal pronouns: Your CV or resume should be written in a professional tone. Avoid using personal pronouns such as “I”, “me”, or “my”. Instead, focus on using action verbs and phrases that demonstrate your skills and achievements. For example, instead of saying “I managed a team of five employees”, say “Managed a team of five employees”.
  • Negative language: Your CV or resume should showcase your skills and achievements in a positive light. Avoid using negative language or focusing on your weaknesses. Instead, focus on your strengths and accomplishments. As a blogging expert, I always encourage my clients to highlight their achievements and focus on what they can bring to the table.

In conclusion, your CV or resume is a crucial document that can impact your chances of getting an interview. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can create a strong and professional CV or resume that highlights your skills and experience. Remember, your CV or resume is your first impression – make it count!

#SchoolLeavers #CareerAdvice #JobSearch #InterviewTips #Volunteering #Networking #LinkedInTips #UniversityvsWorkforce #CareerPaths

Future In-Demand “Non-TECK” Career Paths for School Leavers

If you’re a school leaver who isn’t interested in pursuing a career in technology, you may be wondering what other job opportunities are available. While the tech industry may be booming, there are still plenty of other career paths that are in high demand and offer a promising future. Here are 10 job titles and career choices that are predicted to be in-demand over the next decade:

  1. Healthcare professional
  2. Teacher or education professional
  3. Environmental scientist or specialist
  4. Marketing and advertising professional
  5. Financial advisor or analyst
  6. Social worker or human services professional
  7. Cybersecurity professional
  8. Creative professional (e.g. graphic designer, writer, artist)
  9. Legal professional
  10. Sales professional

According to the World Economic Forum’s “Future of Jobs Report 2020,” the healthcare industry is projected to experience significant growth in the coming years due to an aging population and increased demand for healthcare services. In addition, teachers and education professionals will continue to be in high demand as the education system adapts to changes in technology and curriculum. Environmental scientists and specialists will be needed to address climate change and sustainability issues, while marketing and advertising professionals will be essential for businesses looking to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Future In-Demand “Non-TECK” Career Paths for School Leavers

The Institute for the Future’s “Future of Skills Report” highlights the importance of social and emotional intelligence, complex problem-solving, and critical thinking skills for success in the workforce. Financial advisors and analysts will need strong analytical and problem-solving skills to help clients make informed financial decisions, while social workers and human services professionals will require strong interpersonal skills to support vulnerable individuals and communities. Cybersecurity professionals will be needed to protect businesses and individuals from online threats, and creative professionals will be important for companies looking to innovate and differentiate themselves from competitors. Legal professionals and sales professionals will also continue to be in demand across a range of industries.

It’s important to note that while these careers may not be tech-based, many of them will still require some level of technology skills and familiarity with digital tools. For example, healthcare professionals may need to be proficient in electronic health records systems, while marketing professionals will need to be familiar with social media platforms and digital advertising tools.

As you consider your future career path, think about your own strengths and interests, as well as the skills and education required for the careers that interest you. Pursuing a career that aligns with your passions and values is key to finding long-term success and satisfaction.

In conclusion, while the tech industry may be dominating headlines, there are still plenty of other in-demand career paths available to school leavers. By staying informed about the trends and job opportunities in different industries, you can chart a course for a successful and fulfilling career.

This post is based on data from the following reports:

The Future of Jobs Report 2020″ by the World Economic Forum

The Future of Skills Report” by the Institute for the Future (IFTF)

The Future of Work: Jobs and Skills in 2030″ by Pearson and Nesta.

#careersuccess #careerdevelopment #jobopportunities #futureofwork #independentfuture #newgradjobs #careeradvice #skillbuilding #careerplanning #beyondtech

20 Top careers for school leavers and what UK Universities to go to. 

As a school leaver, deciding on the right career path can be overwhelming. With so many industries and sectors to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this post, we’ll take a look at the top 20 industries and sectors that school leavers commonly start their careers in and suggest some suitable universities for each industry.

  1. Accounting and Finance: The University of Warwick has a highly respected Accounting and Finance program, as does the University of Manchester and the London School of Economics.
  2. Advertising and Marketing: For Advertising and Marketing, the University of Leeds, the University of Manchester, and the University of Nottingham are all excellent options.
  3. Agriculture: The University of Reading is known for its strong agricultural program, as is Harper Adams University.
  4. Arts and Culture: The University of Edinburgh and the University of Glasgow are two well-regarded options for those interested in pursuing a career in Arts and Culture.
  5. Business: The University of Bath, the University of Leeds, and the University of Manchester are all excellent choices for those looking to start a career in business.
  6. Construction: The University of Surrey, the University of Nottingham, and the University of Leeds all have highly respected construction programs.
  7. Education: For those interested in Education, the University of Durham, the University of Exeter, and the University of Nottingham are all highly regarded institutions.
  8. Engineering: Imperial College London, the University of Manchester, and the University of Bristol are all highly respected universities for Engineering.
  9. Environmental Management: The University of Leeds, the University of East Anglia, and the University of Exeter all have highly regarded Environmental Management programs.
  10. Healthcare: The University of Bristol, the University of Leeds, and the University of Manchester all have highly respected programs for Healthcare.
  11. Hospitality and Tourism: For those interested in Hospitality and Tourism, the University of Surrey, the University of Leeds, and the University of Birmingham are all excellent choices.
  12. Information Technology: The University of Warwick, the University of Manchester, and the University of Nottingham are all highly respected universities for Information Technology.
  13. Law: The University of Durham, the University of Bristol, and the University of Nottingham are all highly regarded institutions for Law.
  14. Media and Communications: The University of Leeds, the University of Nottingham, and the University of Sheffield all have highly respected Media and Communications programs.
  15. Pharmaceuticals: The University of Manchester, the University of Nottingham, and the University of Bristol are all excellent choices for those interested in pursuing a career in Pharmaceuticals.
  16. Politics: The University of Oxford, the University of Manchester, and the London School of Economics are all highly respected universities for Politics.
  17. Public Relations: The University of Leeds, the University of Manchester, and the University of Nottingham all have highly regarded Public Relations programs.
  18. Retail: The University of Leeds, the University of Manchester, and the University of Nottingham are all excellent choices for those looking to start a career in Retail.
  19. Science: The University of Warwick, the University of Manchester, and Imperial College London are all highly respected universities for Science.
  20. Social Work: The University of Bristol, the University of Leeds, and the University of Manchester all have highly respected programs for Social Work.

In conclusion, the industries and sectors listed above provide a starting point for school leavers interested in exploring their career options. While Oxford and Cambridge universities are highly regarded for many fields, there are many excellent universities in the UK that offer top-quality programs in a variety of industries and sectors. If you want to do more research, I have posted about “The Top 10 UK University Search Engines for School Leavers” I hope that it helps.

#NavigatingYourCareer #CareerPaths #UniversityOptions #SchoolLeaversUK #TopIndustries #UKUniversities #FutureCareers #ChoosingYourPath #ExploringOptions #navigatingyourcareer

Mastering Your Job Interview: Answering 3 Most Common Questions with Confidence

As a school leaver or young adult entering the workforce, job interviews can be intimidating. However, being prepared and confident can increase your chances of success. In this post, we will cover three of the most common interview questions and provide tips on how to answer them effectively.

  1. “Why do you want to be in this industry or sector?” This question is an opportunity for you to communicate your enthusiasm for the industry or sector. Employers want to hire candidates who are passionate about the work they do and are committed to learning and growing in their roles. To answer this question, do some research on the company and industry you’re applying to. Identify the company’s goals and values, and think about how they align with your interests and career aspirations (if you have difficulties identifying you passions and interest, try answering my 5 questions here). Highlight any previous experience or education related to the industry or sector, and mention any hobbies or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your passion for the field.
  2. “What makes you ideal for this position?” When answering this question, focus on your unique skills and experiences that make you stand out from other candidates. Use the job description as a guide to identify the key skills and qualities that the employer is looking for. In addition to your technical skills and experience, think about other qualities that make you an ideal candidate. Provide specific examples of times when you have demonstrated these qualities in the workplace or in other contexts.
  3. “Why do you want to come and work for us?” This question is all about demonstrating your knowledge of the company and your interest in the position. Research is critical when answering this question. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, values, and culture, and think about how you can contribute to their success. Be specific about what you like about the company and how it aligns with your career goals. Reference recent company news or events, or mention specific aspects of the company culture that appeal to you. If you have any relevant connections to the company or industry, be sure to mention them as well.

By answering these common interview questions with confidence and authenticity, you can demonstrate your value as a candidate and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember to prepare ahead of time, practice with a friend or family member, and show up to the interview with a positive attitude and professional demeaner.

I hope this has helped good luck and please see some of my other articles to help you get you dream job.

#interviewtips #careersuccess #jobsearch #careeradvice #interviewquestions #jobinterview #jobseekers #jobhunting #careerdevelopment #careerjourney

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