THIS time of year is usually known as the peak season for graduations. It can be an exciting time, but it can also bring a sense of worry. Many may begin to worry about their future and what lies ahead, such as job readiness and employment. I vividly remember the challenges of transitioning into a career after completing my studies at the University of Guyana. You are taught the essentials of your profession or field. You learn the theories, practices, and values that underpin your profession or field. Whether you’re graduating from a university or secondary school, you are seldom taught how to join the workforce and how to navigate job preparation successfully. This can seem lonely and even overwhelming. As such, I am dedicating this week’s column to helping young students and graduates who are now preparing for the world of work.

Employers are now demanding innovative workers with unique skills. The job market is very competitive, and as such, you need to be on top of your game. You need to set specific goals and create a strategic plan on how you will navigate the process of gaining employment. One of the most critical aspects is compiling a Curriculum Vitae (CV). When most employers request applications, they will ask for your CV to be attached. Therefore, it is the first step to gaining employment after graduating. My best advice is to research templates for a CV or use apps such as Microsoft Word or Canva to help you create one. A CV is best written while you are still studying so you can capture the essence of your academic activities, such as participation in student societies or volunteering. A CV should give a concise picture of your education, experiences, skills, titles, awards, and jobs you have held in the past or present. A CV must also not be a fixed document—it should be adapted depending on the job and skills required.

In most cases, after the application process, an interview is required. I often describe job interviews as the opportunity to see if you “walk the talk.” The fact that you were shortlisted for an interview means your application and CV were most likely impressive to the interviewer. The interview is where you are questioned about your interests, competency, and skills. It’s good to practise with mock interviews with trusted friends or associates. Ensure you research the company or organisation you are applying to and have a good understanding of their mission and values. Landing your dream job is a great accomplishment, but even if you don’t succeed with a specific job, do not give up. You should regroup and try again with other opportunities.

After graduating, I got the job I wanted, but I soon realised that I still needed to grow professionally and academically. That was not the end of the road for me, and it certainly should not be the end for you, either. I urge you to continue building professional networks, seek mentorship from senior personnel in your field, continue to develop your skills and academic pursuits, and also maintain a professional social media presence. Currently, the demands for employment are also changing, especially in Guyana. Certain skills, such as social media management, are highly valued. You can now consider part-time employment, remote work, and even seasonal employment. Therefore, it is essential to understand these demands and invest in yourself. The world of work can seem intimidating for some, but with resilience and persistence, you can excel. Good luck to all the new graduates of 2024—I hope that this article helps in your pursuit of excellence.