You've Graduated, Now What?

Have you graduated from secondary school or university and are wondering what to do next? Looking for a full or part time job would be the next big step. However, if you are unable to do so immediately after finishing your studies, then the most suitable alternative is to register with the employment office. You also have the option of continuing your studies in this country or abroad.

Before you begin obtaining experience and seeking a job, ask yourself these several important questions. The answers will help you realize what you are looking for.

WHAT DO I WANT?
These are actually simple questions but they concern your plans and preferences:
•What are your professional and personal interests?
•What type of company or institution do you prefer (large, small, family, foreign, etc.) and what type of employer would suit you?
•How important is if for you to be employed within a specific region and what job opportunities does this provide you?
•    Do you feel capable of establishing a business?
•    Are you interested in working abroad?
•    Lastly, what are you willing to sacrifice for your career?
Most potential employers will be much more interested in your opinions, experience and willingness to work than your academic standing. In most market segments, the same applies to your field of specialization during your studies – you will not be the first to get a job in a field you are interested in, but you can improve it. 

Continuing to study is the most attractive alternative for many graduates. Applications to schools are usually submitted by the end of February and the entrance examinations themselves take place until June. Technical faculties, in particular, will announce additional deadlines later on. Potential applicants can opt for studying full-time, which requires their every day attendance at school, or studying part-time, which they can do while working a job.

More and more students are also trying to apply to universities abroad, where they can study in their chosen location and also perfect their language skills. However, you can also obtain language certificates in this country, for instance by taking e-learning courses. Language certificates, as well as confirmation of completion of specialist courses, are an important element that you can use to your advantage when looking for a job.

Most graduates decide to work after completing their studies. Ideally you will start looking for a job while still studying, but can still begin looking for one after graduating. The best alternative is to be active in your field while studying by taking advantage of professional residencies.

If you are in the stage of making enquiries, it is important to show initiative from the start and devote all your time to finding a job. You should search job offers, monitor companies, contact them and distribute a well-executed curriculum vitae together with a motivational letter every day. Recruitment agencies will also help you find a suitable job and prepare for job interviews.