As it is, job hunting is no easy task for anyone but more so for millennials, or
individuals born between the early 80s and early 2000s.
Competition among people in this age group is also tough as young generations of job
seekers double by the numbers year on year. If you are a millennial first-time jobseeker, you
may need the following practical guidelines to persevere in the job market that seems to be
growing more competitive by the minute.
Mentoring is not a bad idea
Mentors are people who are experts in their field and they can give you proper guidance in
finding the right job for you. They can also help in career development. If you’re looking for
ways to improve your skills or make connections, reach across the older generations for help.
Prepare to ask the right questions
When going for a job interview, prepare a set of questions that goes beyond asking how much
salary you will be receiving. There are more issues to consider in employment than just your
salary. You have to ask questions pertaining to benefits like health coverage, trainings and
other skills upgrading activities that could be expected, and growth opportunities within the
organization. Based on your drawn career goal, you can think of more questions to ask a
prospective employer. You also have to ask questions that align with your unique skill set and
aspirations. This will help ensure you find the company that is perfectly fit for you.
Be proud being a millennial
Experts classify millennials as the mostly highly motivated and intensely focused. You may
want to highlight these special traits on your CV and during job interviews. Let your would-
be employer know that with these traits you can contribute to the growth of the company as a
whole. If you had past endeavors in which you demonstrated leadership capabilities and
maturity, highlight them as well. Many hiring managers expect your generation to be tech
fluent, flexible and excellent team players. Amplify these abilities on your CV and in your
interview as well.
Debunk negative perceptions
Do not expect that everyone loves your generation. You may notice that some interviewers
have negative stereotypes about your generation. It’s normal, so don’t get offended. Many
perceive millennials to have a sense of entitlement and unwilling to pay their dues. Prove
them wrong as far as you are concerned. Cite some incidents when you worked hard to reach
a goal or put in a lot of extra work to help a project get off the ground.
Lacking soft skills, like the ability to communicate affectively, is also assumed among
millennials. Debunk this by paying attention when emailing, talking on the phone and
answering questions during interviews. Show hiring managers that you are professional.
Do not give up
As mentioned earlier, job searching is no easy task especially for newbies. It could be
frustrating in most times but do not give in to discouragement. Career development trainers
believe that the line saying, “no jobs are available unless you have years of experience and a
killer portfolio, demo reel or examples of professional-quality work,” is a myth. They could
be of great help, sure. But they certainly are not the only means of landing a good job. The
key is YOU. If you showcase that you possess strong work ethics, a great attitude, and
optimism, in every interview you attend, someone will eventually take notice. Don’t give up.
Embody perseverance and persistence that make your generation a cut above the rest.
