You’re About to Graduate… Now What?

My quest for finding a job began long before I graduated. I have always been a determined individual when it came to applying for internships and finding opportunities. So, around December, I started applying for post-graduate positions. I didn’t have high expectations for finding a job immediately due to still being at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was hoping to have more luck as the time got closer to graduation. 

Here’s how I got the ball rolling, along with insight into my personal experience finding my first job and some helpful tips.

Application Overload

I knew there wouldn’t be an abundance of job openings due to COVID-19 and the majority of businesses working remotely. I ended up applying for about 40 positions only to receive 5 interviews. I never panicked about the number of applications I submitted or worried that I genuinely wouldn’t find a job. 

Tip #1: Don’t panic! It doesn’t help when looking for a job, especially during a crisis.

It wasn’t until I had my first interview with Red Branch Media (RBM) that I realized that the weight was off my shoulders. No matter what you tell yourself, there is a big burden during any job search, especially your very first one, post-graduation. 

I could tell right away that they would be a company that would push me to be my best but also expect a lot in return. After another interview, I was sold. All of my worries about finding a job were gone, and I was thrilled to share with friends and family that I accepted a job offer.

Tip #2: Look for a role that challenges you. If not a specific role, then look for leadership that will! 

Finding My Place

When I first started at RBM, I had those typical initial fears. I was worried if I would be a good fit for this environment, if I would be capable of putting out work that met their expectations, and so on. However, I was welcomed with open arms and was able to train and see how RBM truly works. I have never had a moment where I felt lost, wondering if my work is meaningful or if I was just another number in the office. All of my co-workers were willing to mentor me as I adjusted to this new role.

Tip #3: Ask about training and mentoring programs early on to avoid becoming disengaged.

I have always been a visual learner, so being able to share screens and Zoom has made my training process much easier. I also feel like I am still getting that in-person interaction at RBM. Every day, we have “standups,” which are an opportunity for everyone within their pods to go over their tasks for the day, ask questions, and answer a brain teaser. 

In addition to this, RBM has a monthly “eating meeting”. During this hour, we have a chance to socialize as we would during office hours, play games, and eat snacks. It says something about a workplace that wants people to get to know each other besides just being co-workers.

Tip #4: Look through social media and the company website to get an idea of the kind of company you’re getting into!

Rethinking Remote 

Over my first few weeks at RBM, I have learned so much in a short amount of time. Gaining new knowledge and growing was important to me no matter where I would find work. Even working remotely, I feel that I have a true sense of my purpose and know who my co-workers are. 

Communication has become crucial and working remotely has almost forced me to over-communicate. Something that I truly respect about RBM is its environment. I work at a place where I feel like I can truly be myself. Everyone is relaxed, wants to get to know each other, and praises each others’ success. You can’t always say this about companies and that’s why I value having this experience. At RBM, we are a family.

Tip #5: Remote work is hard enough so check what collaboration options a company has to alleviate any issues that arise.

DO’s and DON’Ts for Post-Grad Jobseekers

My advice about finding your first post-graduate position? 

• DON’T sell yourself short by settling for that “first job” role. Yes, experience is better than no experience, but finding something you enjoy makes the experience a lot better. 
• DO your research. If the position or company doesn’t align with your goals, keep looking. 
• DO be honest with yourself. 
• DON’T give up. I realize I am fortunate enough to have found a position quickly and one that I am passionate about. However, it isn’t the end of the world if it takes you longer to find a role that speaks to you. 
• DO try starting with an internship or simply keep applying and networking! 
• DO create a space where you can succeed, if your first job happens to be remote. Whether that means decorating your desk, asking for an extra monitor,  or taking work to a coffee shop! It might even make the day go a little quicker.

I am thankful for the opportunity that I have had to work at Red Branch Media thus far and wish for all graduates to find a career that makes life just a little more enjoyable!

For additional job hunting and application tips, check out Tips And Tricks To Help You Beat The Applicant Tracking System.

The Branchers

We build the best damn marketing campaigns on the planet. And we do it for industries and companies you might not identify as easy to market (right away). Working here takes a very special kind of person.