Just Graduated? Top 5 Tips to Secure Your First Tech Job

Navigating the job market can be daunting, but with the right strategy and mindset, you can set yourself up for success. If you are a recent graduate these actionable tips will help you stand out and secure your desired role.  

1. Identify Your Target Role and Industry

Start by having a clear idea of the role and industry you want to pursue. This will allow you to tailor your job search and position yourself effectively.  

Familiarise yourself with the recruitment process specific to your chosen field and connect with key individuals within companies or those with insights into the industry. 

Networking is invaluable; by aligning your approach with their needs and expectations, you can significantly boost your chances of success.

2. Boost Your LinkedIn Profile

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first impression potential employers will have of you, so it’s crucial to make it count. Try and optimise your profile to reflect the roles you’re aiming for by clearly outlining your career goals. Ensure your profile is professional, well-crafted, and highlights your key achievements. 

Staying active on LinkedIn by engaging with relevant content, sharing insights and connecting with professionals in your industry can also help increase your visibility and attract the right opportunities.

Joining groups, following companies and consuming information in the area you are looking to get into will ensure you are up to date with market information.

Your LinkedIn profile can be discovered through the keywords it contains, so make sure to include the skills and job titles that align with the positions you're aiming for. This helps LinkedIn’s AI algorithm identify you as an active candidate. Additionally, activate the "Open to Work" feature to increase your visibility to companies who are hiring.

3. Craft a Top-Tier CV

Your CV is your primary tool for selling yourself to employers. To make it as strong as possible, have friends, family or ideally an experienced recruiter review it and provide feedback from different perspectives and ensure there are no mistakes.

Ensure you highlight your achievements and ensure your CV aligns with the needs and wants of the companies and roles you’re applying to. If you have won competitions, done charity work, or been the head boy/girl, these are good examples of aspects that sell your personality even if you think they are a little historic.

If you have an area you are looking to get into and are doing courses, or reading books, it might be useful to highlight this if it ties in with the roles you are applying to, remember a lot of CVs are found with keyword searches.

Including a summary of your key objectives and ensuring the content reflects the specific skills and experiences employers seek will make your application stand out.  

Read our blog: How to write a great Tech CV

4. Utilise a Recruitment Agency - Like Oho!

Partnering with a recruitment agency can be a game-changer in your job search. Recruiters have access to a wide network of opportunities and can provide valuable feedback to refine your approach. They understand what companies are looking for and can help tailor your application to better match job requirements, giving you an edge over other candidates. 

Leveraging their expertise can save you time and connect you with opportunities that might not be publicly listed, including roles at start-ups. This approach can also enhance your visibility within the market and help you discover roles you might have otherwise missed.

Keep in mind that recruiters can be your gateway to landing your dream job, so it’s important to make a positive impression on them and effectively present yourself. Since they often work closely with their clients and handle thousands of applications, it’s crucial to stand out and build a strong relationship with them. If they believe you are the best candidate available, they can greatly influence the client's decision on your behalf.

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5. Prepare Thoroughly for Each Interview

Preparation is key to acing any interview. Research the company and the role extensively and identify common interview questions by exploring resources like Glassdoor. Understanding what’s required to succeed in the position will help you articulate your fit during the interview. 

Be proactive in asking questions about what the company needs in your early-stage interviews and how you can contribute to their goals, so you can research more for any additional interviews. Furthermore, demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning things such as relevant books you’re reading or courses you’re taking. 

The manager you’ll be working for greatly impacts your career development and overall experience in the role. During the interview, it may be beneficial to ask about their management style, industry experience and how much time they dedicate to supporting and developing their team. Understanding how they prioritise mentorship and offer feedback can give you a clearer sense of whether they’ll invest in your growth and how much guidance you can expect as you advance in your career.

Most importantly, don’t be discouraged if you don’t succeed right away—perseverance is part of the journey. Don’t be afraid to pivot your focus on a new niche and a new sector, not every candidate is going to get the highest-paying AI role straight out of university, it might be easier to break into a slightly different sector and job title initially.

By following these steps and remaining focused on your goals, you’ll be well on your way to landing the job you’ve been aiming for. Remember, the job search is a process, and each step brings you closer to your ideal role. Keep refining your approach, stay motivated, and don’t give up!