Page 29 - Dainfern Precinct Living Issue 2 2025

NUTRITION

LANDING YOUR FIRST JOB Building a professional network image you want to project. Whether in an
interview, on social media or at a network-
Networking is a crucial aspect of career
ing event, be mindful of how you present
development and the sooner you start, the
yourself and the impression you leave on
better.
others,” says Read.
AFTER UNIVERSITY “While still a student, take advantage Enhancing your soft skills
of networking opportunities such as
Technical skills and academic knowledge
career fairs, industry conferences and
university events. Join student organi-
communication, teamwork and adaptabil-
sations, clubs and societies related to are important, but soft skills - such as
your field of study—these groups often ity - often set candidates apart in the job
have strong connections with industry market.
professionals and they can provide ac-
cess to mentorship, internships and job Many universities offer career services
opportunities,” says Read. that include training in areas such as James Read
resume writing, interview techniques and Senoir Manager, Independent
It goes without saying that building your professional etiquette. These resources Institute of Education’s Rosebank
professional network online, through plat- can be invaluable as you prepare to enter College
forms such as LinkedIn, is non-negotiable the workforce.
in order to be to be noticed by companies
and employers you may not necessarily be Preparing for the job search
able to reach in person – yet. As you approach graduation, it’s important
to start researching potential employers
Developing a strong personal and industries that align with your career
brand goals, says Read. Look for companies that openings, tailor your application materi-
Your personal brand is how you present match your skills and interests, share your als, and follow up with employers. Practise
yourself to potential employers and plays values and offer opportunities for growth your interview skills with friends or at your
a critical role in your career success – in and development. higher education institution’s careers
particular when you need to stand out centre.
among a sea of candidates. Start by iden- Next, spend time on creating a profession-
tifying your unique strengths, skills and al resume and portfolio that will stand out. “Your university years are not just about
values. What sets you apart from other Your resume is often the first impression earning a degree—they’re about laying the
candidates? What are your career goals? a potential employer has of you, so it’s es- foundation for your future. By approaching
Once you clearly understand your personal sential to make it count. your education with an eye towards your
brand, ensure that it is reflected in your career, and not waiting to cross that bridge
resume, cover letter and online profiles. Then, start preparing for the job search until you get to it, you’ll be well-equipped
“A solid personal brand is also about and interview process, with the under- to navigate the challenges and seize the
consistency. How you communicate, both standing that this process is a job in itself. opportunities that await you in the world of
online and offline, should align with the Set aside weekly time to search for job work,” says Read.

DPL issue 2 2025 27
26 DPL issue 2 2025 Kyalami Estates • CONNECT • Issue 2 • 2024