You’ve finally landed the job of your dreams, only to realize it isn’t meant for you.
The culture seems off, leadership is distant, and co-workers disengaged.
What should you do?
First of all, realize you’re hardly alone. Harvard Business Review says in So You Want to Quit Your Brand-New Job that 30% of 2022 hires are leaving their jobs in the first 90 days. The Guardian reports even more employees (70%) are shocked enough at the new workplace culture that they’re considering whether to stay.
No matter the situation, here’s how to strategically figure out your next steps:
Analyze what you could gain by staying in the new job.
Perhaps you negotiated desirable benefits or compensation that make you feel you should ride it out, such as:
A salary bump that makes other areas of your life easier (like the ability to afford quality child care or ease worry over rising inflation).
A new job title that means you’ll have more leverage as you rise up the career ladder in future roles.
New, in-demand skills you’ll earn in training, or additional responsibilities that will help make you even more valuable in your field.
Career prestige from working at a name-brand company.
These positives may outweigh any other part of the decision.
The corporate culture and team atmosphere may not be a fit, but if you can maintain your position long enough to reap long-term rewards, the discomfort may be a small price to pay. The point is to think strategically; will you be GLAD you stuck it out? Can you make an agreement with yourself that you’ll stay for a certain amount of time?
Decide if a quick exit will save your reputation or sanity.
Employ Inc.’s 2022 Job Seeker Nation Report reveals that 65% of all workers believe you can get a good idea of the company culture in less than a month.
In other words, pay attention to your intuition.
Maybe you can’t bear to deal with the new job for even another WEEK, due to:
Promises made to you that are now broken, despite your best effort to carefully negotiate aspects such as remote work, specific benefits, or compensation.
An atmosphere so toxic that you’re concerned for your mental health.
Signals from past or current colleagues, such as comments about how they can’t believe you took the job.
Practices that would land in the Ask A Manager column, where you’ll see questions on crazy workplaces.
Any of these situations would show your fears are warranted.
If you can’t decide what to do, lean on past mentors or colleagues to discuss what’s going on and whether it makes sense to throw in the towel.
If there’s still a strong market for your skills (meaning that recruiters and employers are seeking you out), it could make sense to leap now, rather than waiting for things to get worse.
Prepare for an eventual (or immediate) job search.
Even if you’re planning to stick it out for a while, always, always, ALWAYS be on the lookoutfor your next opportunity!
First, identify employers you admire using parameters such as industry, products, or company size. Then, assess their company culture (which you can look up on Glassdoor).
Reach out to insiders and make connections, follow them on social media, read company news, and check out their mission statement to get an idea of their values.
Next, brush up your resume and LinkedIn profile with data-driven achievements and branding statements, as described in What Should Your Resume Look Like in 2022? Give compelling details on how you add value as a strong leader in past positions, with examples directly tied to the position you’re pursuing.
If you’re leaving your new job immediately, you may be able to omit it from your resume or LinkedIn for a few months, but you’ll need to prepare a strategy for discussing this at the interview.
Develop and refine a short, powerful statement that outlines your value proposition to ideal employers. Use it as your elevator pitch and incorporate it into your cover letter.
Re-activate your network – and relaunch your search.
Maybe you didn’t reach out to others during your previous job search. However, it’s never too late to build a strong network.
Notify your personal and professional contacts that you’re on the move and show gratitude for leads or information they share with you.
Spend time getting to know THEIR job status and find out how you can repay them by staying in touch, writing a recommendation, or even assisting them in their own search efforts.
Consider contacting employers from your previous job hunt; they may have hired a candidate who didn’t work out. Respectfully let them know you’re back on the market and stay on their radar. Do the same with any recruiters you’ve worked with in the past.
If you’re looking at job postings, decide if the role and employer match your desired criteria and workplace fit (you don’t want to get burned twice; see Fast Company’s How to Identify a Toxic Culture Before Accepting a Job Offer). Job postings can sometimes signal unrealistic expectations, so read between the lines.
Your job search will be considerably faster if you use a variety of methods to find ideal positions, including discussions with recruiters, online job postings, and job leads from your network, coupled with interviewing skills that strike the right impression with employers.
To summarize, you must quickly review your options with a clear head if you’ve found yourself in a less-than-ideal position. Carefully consider what’s MOST important to you and how each option fits your long-term career plan.
It can make sense to stay for a while if the new role benefits you, or simply jump ship and restart a fresh, strategically planned job search.
Despite the economic recession and an unstable job market, healthcare is still considered one of the most in-demand sectors. In fact, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment rate in the healthcare industry is expected to grow by 16% over the next 10 years, which translates to 2.6 million jobs.
The healthcare industry seems more promising, due to the aging population and the continuous fight against the COVID-19, as well as the presence of administration healthcare programs on the internet. Not only that; with the large number of retirees, expect a rapid increase in the demands on healthcare professionals to meet this need.
If you want to land one of the best healthcare careers and achieve financial stability and job security, now is the right time to pursue it. This is because, beyond patient care, the healthcare sector has also expanded into other career fields, including administration, marketing, and information technology, giving better opportunities to job seekers.
Want to know more about the industry? Let’s look at the best healthcare careers you can pursue, the industry’s job outlook, median salary, and how you can penetrate the medical field easily.
Overview of Healthcare Careers
The healthcare sector offers a wide range of career options involving both direct patient care and technology support. As mentioned earlier, BLS reports an expected growth that’s much faster than other occupations. This could be mainly due to the current aging population, resulting in a dramatic increase in healthcare services.
The healthcare sector is categorized into three primary career areas—allied healthcare, support, and hospital management. Allied healthcare services are directly related to patient care, as well as occupations that involve proper maintenance of healthcare equipment. Some examples of allied healthcare workers are nurse practitioners, physicians, dentists, medical technologists, MRI technicians, and home care aides.
Another healthcare field that you can explore is healthcare technology. This involves securing hospital records, patient history, and software maintenance. Some healthcare technology professionals are server technicians and information analysts.
If you have excellent leadership and communication skills, you can pursue a career in healthcare management. This field focuses on business-related aspects, policy creation, budgeting, and staff management. Career options may include medical clerks, administrators, front desk supervisors, and office managers.
Benefits of Working in the Healthcare Field
As long as you’re open to constant learning, working as a healthcare professional is beneficial and fulfilling, despite all the challenges it entails. Here are some of the perks of working in the healthcare industry.
Constant Patient/Staff Interaction
You are expected to communicate with doctors and fellow hospital employees when attending patients. You will work with patients about their symptoms and various concerns to determine the cause of sickness. Pursuing a career in healthcare is definitely rewarding for those who are passionate about helping others.
Flexibility
You can recoup your investment in education faster once you land your first job. As you gain experience over the years, you can create more flexible work schedules as you meet new patients. Once you have established a career in physical therapy or nursing home care, for example, you can set your own schedule, number of patients you can handle, and service fees you can charge.
Career Advancement
The healthcare sector is dynamic in nature, allowing you to pursue the best healthcare careers possible. If you’re currently working as a nursing assistant, for instance, you can be promoted to advanced practice registered nurse with the help of additional education units and state licensure exams. You can even become a medical writer if you have adequate writing skills and a passion for sharing your own ideas.
Financial Security
Healthcare workers can earn as much as they want from overtime pay and freelancing services. If you’re a regular employee, you can receive a salary raise and incentives. You can even enjoy higher earning potential if you work as a medical consultant, a private doctor, or the owner of a medical facility. However, just like any other profession requiring higher academic standards, you also need to pursue further studies and pass government-regulated exams to increase your market value.
How to Find the Right Healthcare Career Path
Since career options in the healthcare industry are broad, it might seem overwhelming for some people what career path to choose. You can narrow down your choices by considering these factors:
Required Length of Study
Each job in the healthcare sector has a corresponding length of education, experience, and skillset. This also depends on your financial capacity and how far you can go in supporting your studies. You need to devote ample time when taking the preferred healthcare course and the length of the apprenticeship program that you must complete.
Career Outlook
There’s no doubt that all professionals want to make progress in their careers. Hence, consider where you intend to stay a few years from now. Determine which areas have increased demand for particular positions that may offer you a greater opportunity.
Desired Salary
If you have plans to pursue a career in healthcare, you need to set a target salary range that will fit your lifestyle and family needs. Consider your current expenditures as well as plans like a career change or migration. Aside from meeting your basic needs, you might have plans to open a new business or acquire a car loan, so make sure they are included in your considerations.
List of the Best Healthcare Careers
Let’s delve a little deeper now that you’ve learned about the various fields in the industry and some factors to consider before pursuing this career path. Browse through this list of the best healthcare careers to discover what fits your preference.
1. Physician Assistant
Physician assistants perform various functions similar to what a traditional doctor does. They work in hospitals, medical schools, and federal healthcare institutions. This position is responsible for the following tasks:
Examining patients to come up with a diagnosis based on interviews and tests
Requesting tests to ascertain the nature of illnesses
Prescribing medications and administering immunizations
Securing patient records
Monitoring treatment plans
Providing proper documentation for benefits and claims
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in healthcare fields, master’s degree is a plus, and Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination
Average salary: $121,530
2. Physician and Surgeon
Physicians and surgeons perform several tasks, including examining patients, prescribing medications, ordering diagnostic tests, and interpreting laboratory results. They provide advice to patients regarding lifestyle changes and preventive health care to improve their quality of life. They also perform surgical operations to treat injuries and diseases. Relevant job responsibilities include:
Administering immunizations
Updating patient’s history
Giving direct orders to nurses, physician assistants, and other healthcare workers
Educational requirements: Medical Doctor (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and Physician National Certifying Examination
Average salary: $208,000
3. Dental Hygienist
Dental hygienists diagnose and treat patients with tooth and gum infections. They provide professional advice about preventive oral care. They often manage their own team of workers, including dental technicians, dental assistants, and receptionists. Dental hygienists use a wide range of equipment like mouth mirrors, brushes, forceps, and digital tools like scanners and X-ray machines. Dentists typically perform the following tasks:
Getting rid of decay from filling cavities and teeth
Repairing tooth damage by using sealants
Administering dental procedures for sensitive cases
Creating models for dentures and jackets
Prescribing medications when needed
Educational requirements: Associate’s degree in dental hygiene
Average salary: $77,810
4. Registered Nurse (RN)
RNs directly provide patient care while closely working with physicians. They’re trained to provide public advice on overall preventive care. They also offer emotional support to patients and family members during treatment. Registered nurses can work with other healthcare specialists based on the hospital or patient needs. They also perform oversight functions, which carefully monitor practical nurses, home care aides, and nursing assistants. Here are some of their core tasks:
Assessing the health condition of a patient
Recording all patient history, symptoms, and observations
Assisting physicians in surgical operations as needed
Administering medications prescribed by physicians
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in nursing and government-sanctioned exams (National Council Licensure Examination)
Average salary: $73,300
5. Radiation Therapist
They’re responsible for administering radiation treatments for cancer patients. In addition, radiation therapists determine the number of doses that should be given to the patient based on diagnostic results and treatment plan. They typically work in hospitals, particularly in the oncology department, but you can also encounter them in outpatient departments and medical offices.
Educational requirements: Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in nuclear medicine technology, physics, and radioactive drugs or related professional degree
Average salary: $82,790
6. Occupational Therapist
They’re responsible for developing a physical rehabilitation program to help patients recover from an injury or disability. Occupational therapists help patients regain their ability to resume work or daily life routine. Aside from that, they also perform other tasks, such as:
Conducting psychological and physical assessments of patients based on the treatment plan
Making necessary adjustments to home or work environment
Assessing the patient’s overall mental health and physical condition
Choosing the appropriate equipment to help patients perform daily activities efficiently
Educational requirements: Master’s degree in occupational therapy and state licensure examination
Average salary: $85,570
7. Cardiovascular Technologist
Also known as medical stenographers, they work under the supervision of a cardiologist and other specialized doctors to diagnose or treat patients with heart-related ailments. They use advanced imaging equipment like electrocardiograms to conduct tests. This position is also involved in performing certain medical procedures, including defibrillators and cardiac pacemakers.
Educational requirements: Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in cardiovascular and vascular technology or other related courses
Average salary: $60,570
8. Physical Therapist
Physical therapists treat patients with health conditions that affect their mobility. They formulate specific treatment plans to help patients recover from injuries while alleviating pain. As a physical therapist, you will work in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and sports centers alongside other healthcare specialists. Here are some of the relevant responsibilities:
Developing rehabilitation plans based on patient history and diagnosis
Integrating therapeutic exercises and use of mobility equipment in patient’s daily life
Performing massage to expedite the healing process
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in recreation and fitness or other related healthcare programs and physical therapist licensure (National Physical Therapy Examination)
Average salary: $95,620
9. Respiratory Therapist
Respiratory therapists are responsible for formulating treatment plans for patients dealing with pulmonary distress as a result of complications from lung cancer, bronchitis, asthma, and COPD. They ensure patients won’t have trouble breathing through appropriate medications, breathing apparatus, and therapeutic exercises. They usually conduct diagnostic tests to analyze a patient’s lung condition. Other valuable tasks include:
Administering inhalants and aerosol medications
Monitoring treatment plans for signs of progress and recurring issues
Assisting patients with how to use prescribed equipment at home
Education: Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in respiratory therapy from accredited universities
Average salary: $61,830
10. Speech Language Pathologist
Speech language pathologists offer assistance to patients and family members dealing with speech problems. As a speech therapist, it’s your responsibility to formulate a treatment plan for patients with traumatic experiences that have resulted in their inability to speak. Speech pathologists usually coordinate with physical therapists, nurses, and medical responders to provide assessment and rehabilitation plans.
Educational requirements: Master’s degree and some states require that speech-language pathologists be licensed
Average salary: $79,060
Tips for Landing the Best Healthcare Careers
Because of the extensive nature of the healthcare industry, each position requires certain educational units to qualify. Plus, there are other factors you need to ace your job search. Consider some practical tips below to further enhance your skills and job qualifications.
1. Sign up for internship programs.
Acquiring relevant experience from hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare institutions is important when searching for a prospective healthcare career. Although most internship programs are unpaid, you can gain quality hands-on experience, which you can use as a stepping stone to get into your dream job.
Since there aren’t enough healthcare professionals in many hospitals today, the services of volunteers and interns are hired to meet these demands. Consider reaching out and offering your services to community health centers, local hospitals, and non-profit organizations in your vicinity. This way, you can establish not only experience but also connections with seasoned professionals, social groups, and medical communities.
2. Gain more knowledge.
Improving your skill set is also an effective way to stand out in the industry. If you’re a nurse practitioner, you can take additional courses, including medical transcription, laboratory assistance, and hospital management. Consider taking additional workshops to help expand your job search capacity and move into a more lucrative healthcare field. If you have enough resources, enroll yourself in a master’s degree.
3. Establish connections.
Expanding your social network may significantly help in your career hunt. Join social groups, particularly medical specialists and community healthcare leaders, to establish a connection. You can also seek direct referrals from friends, acquaintances, and classmates involved in the healthcare sector. As you build connections, create a comprehensive professional resume, detailing your skill sets, work experience, and academic achievements
Expert Tip:
Browse through resume examples online to guide you in writing your healthcare resume.
Elevate Your Career with the Help of Healthcare Resume Writers
Knowing the best healthcare careers available on the market may offer you the chance to enjoy some rewarding benefits, from lucrative pay to job security. With the number of healthcare programs being offered today, breaking into the healthcare sector is becoming easier, as long as you have the right experience, interests, and skills required for your target job.
If you’re not confident in writing your own healthcare resume, why not consider hiring credible resume writers to make your talents noticeable? Resume Professional Writers is home to outstanding resume writers and career experts. Hence, we guarantee our clients a job-winning healthcare resume that can get their name to the top of the candidate list. Check out our full list of resume writing services today.
Business services are activities in the companies to operate using intangible aid and support. For example, companies can provide banking, insurance, warehousing, and communication services, among others. The service business is an enterprise of a team of experts tasked to deliver aid, support, and work to benefit the customers.
What are some of the open jobs in business services applicants can pursue? Before we dive into the list, let’s take a closer look into the job outlook for business services.
Job Outlook for Business Services
Previously, we discussed why a career in business services is a rewarding path. In it, we stated how business services offer an unmatched amount of work openings, career chances, and opportunities for growth and advancement. Hence, the job outlook for careers in business services points upward. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment in business services is projected to grow by 8% from 2020 to 2030. It’s a rate about as fast as the average for all occupations, which means there would be an additional 750,800 new jobs.
What do all this mean? Simply put, there are plenty of jobs in the market. More and more companies are willing to expand their horizon to shift from non-business service to business service. These service-based companies do not have products to sell to their target markets; instead, they provide effective and quality services. Finally, business services are expanding at a faster rate than ever before, and as a result, new employment roles are constantly being created.
Benefits of Working in Business Services
Working in business services remains beneficial. Job applicants can choose from various business services that suit them best. Right off the bat, below are some benefits of working in the business services sector.
Ever-growing demand and positive job outlook
Promising pay and benefits for a wide variety of fields and industries
Job security especially during difficult financial times
High growth potential even for entry-level job seekers
Flexible work hours to perform the jobs and tasks
These benefits depend largely on the types of services the companies offer. Again, companies can grow and improve their business operations if they offer accessibility, capability, and luxury.
List of Jobs in Business Services to Consider
As job applicants, you can search for various careers in service-based companies. You have to know by now that these companies can offer different types of services, which can aid other businesses and improve work satisfaction. Here are 10 examples of jobs in business services that you can consider pursuing.
1. Software Engineer
Many job applicants are looking for companies that offer opportunities for technical positions. You can be software engineers or specialists who take charge of an assortment of software services. Fortune companies such as Adobe, Apple, Google, Meta, and Microsoft provide software services that enhance system features and upgrade company securities. These companies introduce software services for individuals to update their technological devices, such as computers and mobile phones.
Among the best-paying jobs in business services, software engineer posts average a yearly salary of $117,086 in the US.
2. Consultant
Most businesses do not know exactly know what they are doing. So, they hire experts in the field to work for them. This is where consultants come in. In this case, you can be a consultant or an expert who can provide these businesses with your consulting services. This consulting service adds to your career profile and portfolio. Fortunately, plenty of businesses these days deal with consulting services for various projects, such as auditing, financial budgeting, interior designing, landscaping services, and more.
With an estimated total pay for an entry-level consultant pegged at $67,368 each year, this ranks among the most profitable jobs in business services.
3. Marketing Manager
The world revolves around the business market. The question now asks if jobs in business services—particularly marketing in today’s digital age—offer a good career path. If you’re a job seeker with creative and marketing skills, you can be a marketing specialist and eventually a marketing manager in various companies to help them widen their reach not only in person but also online.
More companies these days hire marketing experts who can increase user engagements and establish brand recognition. If you’re interested in pursuing marketing jobs in business services, the average annual salary for a marketing manager is $67,374 in the US.
4. Career Coach / Trainer
A career involving training others is a venture worth pursuing. Indeed, businesses benefit from hiring trainers to coach and teach their employees to perform tasks focusing on soft skills and technical skills. Most companies require trainers to conduct presentations, training sessions, and workshops to help employees advance their skills.
If you’re considering how to become a career coach, you could start with certifications, such as Professional Career Coach (PCC). As for the average pay, a career coach earns $46,811 each year on average.
5. Event Coordinator
Most people are quite busy with their jobs. They do not have time to prepare for their daily activities and events. Consequently, these people look for professionals to provide them with the event planning services. As an event coordinator, you’re in charge of organizing fundraising events, office parties, and other corporate functions. In addition, you can be event planners for these types of events to find additional staff members, catering and supplies, and venues.
As for the salary, an event coordinator earns $44,000 every year on average, according to PayScale.
6. Waste Management Technician
If you do not have a professional degree but looking for jobs in business, you can consider working in waste management services. It is possible to be in this line of work if you have a grasp of waste management. Companies hire people to perform the tasks to help businesses and individuals keep their workplaces clean. Aside from that, companies always produce a substantial volume of garbage daily in which they hire people to perform the hard jobs.
If you like to pursue a career as a waste management technician, the yearly pay in the US is worth $51,351, a rate that’s 12% above the national average.
7. Construction Project Manager
Landing construction jobs is easy especially if you have a grasp of construction services. You can surely get jobs here because more companies hire experts on the ground. Jobs in construction services grow and local and international companies hire people who learn the same skill set and trade. Forging a career in construction services is a rewarding endeavor, with the average salary for a construction project manager being estimated at $78,477 each year.
8. Law Clerk
Among the in-demand jobs in business services, legal positions can be a rewarding. You can land jobs that provide legal services, starting as a law clerk or paralegal. Needless to say, you would need a legal degree to pursue this profession. Regarding the average salary for a law clerk, it’s pegged at $70,531 yearly.
9. Health and Wellness Coordinator
Nowadays, more and more people pay a visit to various physical fitness centers to maintain their health and wellness. As a response, companies employ health and wellness experts and assistants who can provide the same services. As a health and wellness coordinator, your main role is to encourage others to take care of their health. You also educate and inspire them on health-related issues of all kinds that do and might impact them, ranging from mental to physical.
The average salary for a wellness coordinator is $64,142 each year, although the range typically falls between $55,318 and $72,855.
10. Insurance Agent
Finally, companies provide insurance services for people’s health. Endorsing health and life insurance for organizations and workers is a good practice to help people and their organizations decrease their financial obligations. Being an insurance agent can be a good career path in business. For sure, it is a good opportunity to land jobs if you have a grasp of the skill set. The average salary for this job is $56,199 every year in the US.
How to Get Jobs in Business Services and the Credentials Needed
An undergraduate degree is required by most businesses to be able to work in business services. Moreover, your credentials can be bolstered with related internships. Most companies host lectures, workshops, or job fairs on campuses when looking for potential interns. If you’re currently a college student deliberating what career path to choose, you can consider this. Additionally, a certification lends credence to your application for a career in business services.
Lastly, you need to build your portfolio, from your resume to your LinkedIn profile. Prepare your resume, which indicates your experiences and qualifications. You have to learn a few tricks to get some highest paying jobs because jobs in business services are plenty. Once you finish creating your portfolio and establish your presence, you’re set to go and apply for jobs in business services.
Hire a Resume Expert to Write Your Business Service Resume Today
Indeed, getting jobs in the business industry is beneficial. First, there are plenty of jobs here and abroad. Second, there are companies and groups of individuals who always rely on people and others for their services. Sure, landing a high-paying job in business services could be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Some people feel overwhelmed with which skills to include on their resume that make them stand out among the competition.
The answer here is a well-written resume. Professional resume writers can help you in matching your skills to the demands of the business services job you are targeting. Avail of our resume writing services today to help with your job search!
To succeed, businesses must have a solid financial foundation. Hence, having a highly efficient finance department to plan and manage the finances will aid the company gain assets and funds sustainably. Having that said, is finance a good career path? What are some of the open jobs in corporate finance applicants can apply for? Before we dive into the list, let’s take a closer look into corporate finance.
Corporate Finance: An Overview
Corporate finance deals with a company’s financial needs from every aspect. It discusses how businesses deal with issues that include financial leverage, accountancy, and investment choices. Corporate financial activities include things like tax planning and capital investments.
Corporate finance jobs are steady, but the working culture is highly accountable since it involves managing cash resources, raising funds for business growth through acquisitions, and planning the company’s profitability through effective cash management. Thus, if you’re the type of person who thinks in numbers and is interested in money and how financial markets work, a job in corporate finance may be right for you.
Basics of Corporate Structure
Like in any other industry, there are entry-level, middle-level, and senior roles on the finance corporate ladder. Let’s go over these to get a better understanding of a company’s corporate finance structure.
Entry-Level Corporate Finance Job
Entry-level positions call for a bachelor’s degree in finance or economics. Critical thinking, good communication skills, and familiarity with basic accounting software will make you stand out from the competition. Financial analyst, cost analyst, and business analyst are typical entry-level professions.
Mid-level Corporate Finance Job
Career choices at this level include senior strategic planners, cash managers, and related roles like financial planners and acquisition specialists. Hence, having an MBA or a Certified Chartered Accountant designation is better. If you have excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to step up when necessary, you will have a better chance of landing a mid-level position.
Senior-Level Corporate Finance Job
As you advance in the organization and gain more experience, it will expose you to more difficult situations. This can help you build strong managerial skills, a solid understanding of macroeconomic ideas, and exceptional leadership skills where you won’t hesitate to make risky, million-dollar financial decisions. The chief financial officer (CFO), chief executive officer (CEO), treasurer, controller, and business development managers are senior-level managers who possess these skills in corporate finance.
Jobs in Corporate Finance: Open Careers for You
There are many job paths you can take if you want to begin your career in the finance industry. If you’re unsure of where to start or what to aim for, below is a list of the top corporate finance jobs available. We’ve provided average base salary and total compensation estimates, including commissions and other incentives.
1. Real Estate Officer/Manager
A real estate officer deals with the property issues of a company, such as evaluating and securing commercial property for the business and negotiating lease terms and conditions with the opposite party. They work with other financial staff members at the company to ensure that the properties they secure are wise investments. A degree in real estate, business, or finance and prior professional experience in one of these areas can help you become a real estate manager. It involves both finance and in-depth commercial real estate understanding.
The average yearly salary for an entry-level property manager is $42,289, with a range of up to $61,000. Given the wide range of entry-level property manager salaries, there may be many prospects for advancement and higher income based on experience, location, and skill level.
2. Cost Analyst
A cost analyst aids their company in controlling costs through financial study and analysis. Their task includes generating reports for company leadership, developing budgets, monitoring financial transactions, reducing the company’s expenses, examining the discrepancy between company expenses and standard costs, and doing market research.
A bachelor’s degree in business administration or accounting, cost accounting experience, proficiency with accounting software, and strong analytical abilities are requirements for this career. Some employers might also require that you hold a certified public accountant (CPA) license. As for the salary, the yearly pay for an entry-level cost analyst is $55,089, or around $1,059 per week, or $4,591 per month. The expected total compensation, including bonuses and profit sharing, might reach $75,000–$85,000.
3. Auditor
An auditor is a financial expert who audits accounts for businesses and organizations to verify the accuracy of their financial data. As part of their duties, auditors prepare tax returns, examine company account books and accounting systems to ensure efficiency and accuracy, and verify that financial statements are correct and compliant with the law.
Candidates for this position should at least hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Some companies prefer candidates who hold a master’s degree in accounting or an equivalent. The ideal applicant should be a certified internal auditor (CIA) or certified public accountant (CPA). Companies usually choose candidates with a minimum of one to three years of work experience to handle difficult auditory demands. Finally, the average entry-level auditor salary is $62,001/year, but the range typically falls between $56,201 and $68,101.
4. Benefits and Compensation Manager
The choice and management of an organization’s employee benefits package falls under the purview of a benefits manager. They get quotes from different suppliers and ensure that any benefits plans they carry out make financial sense for the business. They work closely with a company’s human resources department to review and update existing benefit and compensation-related policies, and ensure these follow current laws.
Whereas many benefit managers begin their careers in the human resources department, they nonetheless possess a background in finance. They must also have hands-on experience with payroll software. You can start down this career route with a bachelor’s degree in finance, organizational psychology, or human resources management. The entry-level benefit manager salary ranges from $67,00- $84,000 annually, plus extra pay of around $18,000.
5. Corporate Accountant
Corporate accountants oversee a company’s financial operations, making financial reports, and assisting management in formulating strategic decisions based on actual and projected financial data. Finance manager and financial controller are two possible corporate finance job progressions for this path. Businesses hire corporate accountants with a bachelor’s in accounting, finance, or any related field of study.
The starting pay for a corporate accountant is between $64,000 and $67,000 per year; but with the incentives and bonuses, it can go as high as $89,000.
6. Financial Analyst
Among the in-demand corporate finance jobs, financial analysts take charge of the organization’s financial projection. They search for patterns and any inconsistencies in the methods which help them make financial strategies they recommend to executives. For this position, a bachelor’s degree and previous experience as an analyst or controller are often needed.
The starting salary for a financial analyst is between $65,530 and $71,000, but with bonuses and other incentives, they could make between $91,223 and $96,693 annually.
7. Investor Relations Manager
An organization’s investor relations officer manages relationships with both institutional and individual investors; which involves meeting with investors, providing potential investors with financial information, releasing information, creating reports for stakeholders, and crisis management.
Companies often require a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, communications, economics, or a related field for this corporate finance job. Though not required, a master’s degree, such as an MBA, is a plus. In jobs where the applicant possesses experience in investor relations, public relations, financial investment, accounting, legal, and other similar fields, companies often require two to seven years of work experience. Thus, this job is not listed as an entry-level position.
The average annual salary of an IR ranges from $81,000- $89,000. The estimated total salary could reach up to $96,000-$104,000, including incentives.
8. Financial Planner
Financial planners help their clients make sound financial decisions, help them in saving money, create investment portfolios, and give financial guidance. Advisory or planning firms often hire them, but they can also work for themselves.
Most financial planner positions need a college degree at the least. Other qualifications sought by employers are advanced degrees, licenses, and other professional certifications. For instance, if a financial planner holds a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) accreditation, the chances are likely to be the highest. Although not required, a degree in finance or economics is helpful for those seeking to work in this field.
Entry-level positions start at $79,814 per year, while most experienced workers make up to $114,780-$134,356 annually.
9. Controller
Financial controllers supervise a company’s financial management, analyze reports, and make sure that the company’s finances are correctly accounted for and compliant with the law. In larger companies, they report directly to the chief financial officer, while they may be in charge of the finance team in smaller companies. They often help set financial objectives and budgetary funding allocation.
Controllers often hold a master’s degree in business administration apart from a bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting. Before obtaining a position as an assistant controller, they also work in the accounting department. The average controller salary ranges from $101,895 to $104,000 annually. The annual starting salary for this occupation is $97,500, with most experienced individuals earning up to $140,000. This position is not often listed as entry-level.
10. Chief Finance Officer (CFO)
The Chief Finance Officer (CFO) position is one of the most senior jobs in corporate finance, and it takes years to develop the qualifications needed to hold this post. This job requires a wide set of skills, from office management to client relations. CFOs handle all aspects of a company’s finances, including planning, budgeting, negotiating supplier prices, and ensuring a steady cash flow. They assess the company’s financial performance and develop policies to protect the stability of its finances.
CFOs typically start off with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business. Most of them continue on to earn an MBA from prestigious universities, establish themselves in the accounting or finance industries, become CPAs, which increases their marketability, and take on leadership positions in industries to gain exposure and experience. Before being named chief financial officer, CFOs typically have positions as controllers or treasurers.
As of June 2022, the annual pay for a CFO is between $138,000 and $175,000, plus an added $25,000-$67,000 based on the company’s profit share, for a total salary between $163,003 and $240,000 annually.
Credentials for Corporate Finance Jobs
An undergraduate degree is required by most businesses to be able to work in finance. Your academic record must show your skill in math and numbers. It involves knowledge in accounting, business, applied mathematics, and economics.
In addition, internships prove to be an ace up a job hopeful’s sleeve. In order to find summer interns, most companies host lectures, workshops, or job fairs on campuses. They not only give networks and experience, but they usually help steer candidates to a position at the top of the company’s training program following graduation. Moreover, it’s helpful to have a certification that gives you the practical skills you need to move up the ladder as a top performer if you’re looking to transition from other fields.
Hire a Professional Resume Writer to Craft your Finance Resume
Landing a high-paying job could be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Some people feel overwhelmed with confusion— unsure of which skills to include on their resume that make them a good fit in the finance industry.
The answer here is a perfectly written, job-winning resume. Professional resume writers can help you in matching your skills to the demands of the corporate finance job you are vying for. To save time and secure a better work opportunity in corporate finance, you can use our professional resume writing services.
Just graduated? Congratulations! You might be currently looking for a rewarding career to pursue. While the job market today can be competitive, you can always rely on the financial sector for the perfect professional opportunity. Why is this so? Constantly evolving, working in finance is an excellent fit for anyone who:
Likes crunching numbers while applying their mathematics skills;
Is interested in learning about the inner workings of markets and businesses; and
Wants to follow a career that does not get stale.
While the workload is demanding, it rewards you with high pay. This can lead to a lucrative career path with plenty of growth potential, even in just a few years. You don’t need to start with a high position; even an entry-level job in finance can provide a substantial income. There’s also plenty of room to grow. However, as noted above, this also makes it a very competitive sector, even if you come fully prepared.
Fortunately, knowing which entry-level position is right for you and what requirements you need for it can help you break easier in this industry. To help you, we’ve listed the the top 10 entry-level jobs in finance, the requirements you need, and everything else in between. Let’s jump in.
Job Outlook for Entry-Level Finance Work
It’s important to remember that the financial industry is competitive and cyclical. Furthermore, as per Bloomberg, there’s the possibility of a looming recession, which may slow down the economy in the coming years. Because the finance sector is dependent on this, there’s a chance it may be affected.
Nevertheless, a report from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that finance-related occupations are on track to grow between 2020 and 2030. Even with the pandemic, a silver lining came through with digital finance, thereby increasing the demand for professionals.
So, an entry-level finance position means that finance graduates can still earn plenty. Of course, cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit-sharing are available, depending on where you work.
Career Path for Finance Degree Holders
Regarding career paths in the financial sector, the two most common are financial management and financialplanning. If you choose financial management, expect to be involved in the expenses, profitability, cash, and credit of the firm you’re working for.
On the other hand, financial planning will have you working with both families and individuals on a more personal level. This includes, among others, tax planning, investment strategies, and debt management.
Top 10 Entry-Level Jobs in Finance
Whichever path you decide to take, however, you can expect a reasonably promising career. Below, we’ve listed the 10 entry-level jobs in finance that you can pursue.
1. Accountant
If you’re handy with numbers, working as an accountant is a great stepping stone. You only need an undergraduate degree in finance or business, and you can earn as much as $73,560 on average. The job outlook also grows at a rate of 7%, placing plenty of confidence in this field.
2. Loan Officer
If you’re good at talking to people and evaluating, starting as a loan officer can be a great pick. Currently, the job outlook is only 1% from 2020-30. However, you can still earn around $63,380 annually. Plus, you can work even without an undergraduate degree. Of course, you can eventually leverage your position for a higher-paying one over time.
3. Budget Analyst
If you have a knack for organizing finances and budgeting, a job as a budget analyst should fit perfectly. With an annual income of $79,940 and a 5% growth rate, it’s a great place to start. What’s more, this entry-level finance position only requires a bachelor’s degree. That being said, some coursework in accounting, statistics, or economics should help.
4. Junior Tax Associate
Financial services associated with taxation are in constant demand. This means that there are always plenty of available positions. As a tax associate, you are responsible for researching, reviewing fiscal systems, and other related tasks. You also need a bachelor’s degree in accounting and expect to get paid as much as $55,640 yearly. However, you need higher education if you want a better position.
Unfortunately, there may be a 4% decline in the coming years in terms of job outlook. Still, it’s an excellent position to be in. In time, you can advance to higher positions like a budget director, accounting manager, or even chief financial officer.
5. Financial Analyst
If you like staying updated with economic trends, you will do well as a financial analyst. Typically, financial analysts advise clients and businesses on the best way to invest and diversify their assets. Aside from that, you may also help determine a company’s value and assess any possible financial risks and prospects.
As for educational requirements, most companies will require a bachelor’s degree in finance. You can also earn $81,410 annually with a 6% growth rate in job outlook.
6. Data Analyst
If you like finance and technology, then your ideal calling might be to work as a data analyst. These professionals deal with tasks like analyzing stock and inventory, reviewing sales performance, or monitoring marketing.
As for the requirements, many data analysts have a bachelor’s degree. However, you need graduate-level schooling if you want a higher position. You can also expect a salary of around $82,360 annually, with a high job outlook rate of 25%.
7. Personal Financial Advisor
This is for people with excellent financial literacy. While it’s an entry-level job, it still carries plenty of responsibility. That’s because this job deals with helping individuals with their insurance, taxes, and investments. You may even help with college savings, retirement, or benefits.
Anyone interested will need a finance or accounting degree. However, moving up the ranks may require an MBA. As for salary expectations, you can earn as much as $94,170 annually, with a job outlook rate of 5%. Since you work with individuals, you can also earn from commissions.
8. Economist
Another great entry-level job in finance is working as an economist. The position itself is perfect for anyone interested in the science behind finance. What’s more, annual salaries can be as much as $105,630 in the private sector. There’s also a job outlook rate of 13%, which is faster than average.
However, there is a caveat. Most private-sector economist jobs require an advanced degree to qualify. That said, getting into government offices is easier, as these usually only require a bachelor’s degree.
9. Insurance Claims Adjuster
If you’re interested in investigating or working with people, you will find plenty of opportunities here. These professionals typically work with insurance companies and either make estimates or perform investigative work.
What’s great about this entry-level job is that you don’t need a bachelor’s degree and can still earn as much as $64,710 per year. Plus, you can also earn from commissions, depending on the company. However, some employers may require one. For this reason, consider applying for several firms.
10. Compensation and Benefits Specialist
If you prefer to work in H.R., working as a compensation and benefits specialist will be a great fit. These professionals are tasked with determining fair wages to fit the needs of both employer and employee. You can also do other related tasks. An entry-level finance position will net you as much as $64,102 annually; and you will need a degree in business administration, human resources, or finance.
Tips for Getting an Entry-Level Job in Finance
Knowing where to start can be tricky if you’re a new graduate. Starting at the bottom can be scary as well. As such, we’ve included these tips to increase your chances of securing that entry-level finance position.
1. Get the right qualifications.
If you want to enter finance, get the right qualifications and education. Luckily, this industry constantly evolves, so you can get in with a related degree and a good GPA. Aside from that, adding certifications under your belt via online courses will also help you get a leg up.
2. Look for internships.
Internships provide relevant experience, helping you prepare for an entry-level finance job. They’re also a great interview selling point and allow you to connect with industry people.
3. Master basic technical skills.
Finance deals with plenty of numbers, so brushing up on your math and Microsoft Excel skills will help. You can also further develop other software-based skills.
4. Acquire the right credentials.
Other than the relevant educational background, you can also differentiate yourself with credentials. You can take the CFA or SIE, depending on your chosen career path.
5. Work on your job search tools, such as resume and CV.
Keep your resume updated when applying for an entry-level finance job. Avoid a cookie-cutter resume, and customize it for the firm you’re applying for. Highlight your skills, credentials, and experience and mention how you can contribute to the company. Adding industry-specific keywords aptly tailors your resume specifically to the job position you’re applying for. Hence, it increases the chances of your resume beating the applicant tracking systems (ATS) and grabbing the hiring managers’ attention.
To learn more about what an entry-level finance resume should look like, you may review our finance resume examples written by our professional resume writers.
6. Polish your interview skills by preparing in advance.
Finally, prepare for your job interview. Doing so allows you to answer the most common interview questions with confidence and grace. These include the statements such as:
Entry-Level Jobs in Finance Start with a Great Resume
Ultimately, finance jobs are demanding, thus you need to be fully committed. This means learning about anything finance-related. It also means keeping updated about market trends, sectors, and the like. Now that you have a solid foundation for entering the finance sector, you can decide which path to take.
And to do that, you need a solid resume to help you stand out and showcase your capabilities. For such needs, we at Resume Professional Writers have got your back. Don’t waste your chances and craft a topnotch job search tool. Our team of career experts offers resume and CV writing and job posting for aspiring entry-level finance job seekers like you. Check our resume services or contact us today to learn more.
There’s no denying that technology has continued to flourish and play an integral role in our daily lives. In fact, it’s through technology that a lot of innovations, breakthroughs, and transformations are visibly possible not only in the business sector but also in society as a whole. Hence, a lot of job seekers—whether entry-level applicants or experienced professionals—embark on a career in this field and hope to land the best paying technology jobs.
Professionals seek jobs in the technology industry for great job security, work-life balance, workplace flexibility, industry growth, and an inclusive and positive culture. Aside from these, working in this field can help you keep up with industry trends and acquire skills as it provides you with constant learning. Moreover, making investments in the industry is vital to maintaining your competitive edge and staying relevant.
In this article, we’ll share with you the 10 best paying technology jobs you can apply for, along with each position’s average salary. Plus, we’ll give you an idea of where to find such job openings, effective job search tips, and best practices for technology professionals.
Career Outlook for Technology Jobs
Is technology a good career path? If the report of the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics is any indication, all signs point to the positive. According to BLS, the employment demand in computer and information technology (IT) is expected to increase by 13% from 2020 to 2030, adding approximately 667,600 new jobs. This is faster than the average for all occupations. Furthermore, the need for these positions will zero in on cloud computing, big data collection and storage, and information security.
In addition to the report, the median annual wage for computer and IT occupations was $97,430 in May 2021, which was higher than the median annual wage for all jobs of $45,760.
The 10 Best Paying Technology Jobs
Are you ready to be part of this sector? Below are the 10 best paying technology jobs you can apply for that can serve as your stepping stone toward your career goals. Read on.
Application Architects
Application architects oversee the design and development of software applications. These IT experts work with internal stakeholders and application development teams on application design, execute and manage application development stages, and handle the documentation of application development processes.
Average salary: $126,981 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science with a specialization in software engineering, application development, or related fields.
Database Architects
Database architects demonstrate their skills in conceptualizing strategies for enterprise database systems and establishing standards for operations, programming, and security. They take charge of planning and installing upgrades of database management system software to streamline database performance, as well as recommending hardware or software technologies to attain desired database performance.
Average salary: $106,919 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or computer engineering, with focus on database management.
Big Data Engineers
Big data engineers are one of the best paying technology jobs in the field. They are in charge of developing, testing, and maintaining big data solutions. They collect large chunks of data from different sources and ensure that users can access the data immediately and hassle-free.
Average salary: $104,647 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or computer science.
DevOps Engineers
With a combination of an understanding of both engineering and coding principles, DevOps engineers oversee the code releases in collaboration with developers and IT staff. These engineers implement customer-requested integrations, provide level 2 technical support, and develop tools to reduce error occurrences and improve customer experience.
Average salary: $104,387 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or relevant field.
Software Engineers
Software engineers design and create multiple computer systems and applications to solve problems using scientific, mathematical, and engineering principles. Additionally, they develop and direct software system validation and testing methods, assess and test new and existing software programs, as well as optimize software for speed and scalability.
Average salary: $97,386 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, computer engineering, or related discipline.
Data Scientists
Data scientists are primarily responsible for creating data-driven solutions geared toward an organization’s needs. They formulate models to resolve business problems, develop machine learning algorithms, and evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of new data sources and data collection techniques.
Average salary: $99,220 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in data science or other computer-related fields. Completing a master’s or doctorate degree is a plus.
IT Project Manager
IT project managers’ primary responsibilities include spearheading all aspects of any project in a company’s IT department, such as managing employees to ensure timely completion of projects within their specified budgets. They also handle and maintain project timeframes, budgeting estimates, and status reports; develop and review the costs and advantages of new projects; and present project financing to top executives and stakeholders.
Average salary: $90,876 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology, or related field. Other organizations require a graduate degree.
Full Stack Developers
Armed with strong organizational and project management skills, full stack developers are responsible for developing front-end website architecture and back-end website applications, designing user interactions on web pages, and creating servers and databases for functionality. These computer programmers work collaboratively with graphic designers for web design features, as well as with development teams and product managers to create and implement software solutions.
Average salary: $89,942 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Software Quality Assurance Engineers
Included in our list of the best paying technology jobs are software quality assurance engineers. They take charge of every phase of the development process to guarantee compliance of the design and software with company standards. Moreover, they design and execute systems to determine and resolve issues, conduct risk analysis, and optimize overall testing processes.
Average salary: $87,267 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in software design, software engineering, computer science, or any relevant field.
Information Security Analysts
These IT professionals plan and implement security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems from cyberattacks. They conduct research on the latest IT security trends, establish security standards and best practices for the organization, and investigate security breaches and other cybersecurity incidents.
Average salary: $82,075 per year
Educational requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a computer science field.
Where to Find the Best Paying Technology Jobs
Now that you have an idea about the best paying technology jobs, below are some of the resources where you can find such job opportunities.
Online Job Portals
Along with the advancement of technology is the evolution of online job portals. Therefore, all job seekers can look and apply for jobs in an instant—anytime and anywhere. Plus, there are a number of job search engines that are particularly developed for a certain industry, including the technology field.
Social Media Groups
Make your social media accounts more productive by joining different groups that are in line with your profession. Aside from sharing your industry knowledge and gaining new learning from like-minded individuals, you will also get immediate notifications about such job opportunities. That said; it’s crucial to keep your online presence professional.
Technology Websites
Some of the best paying technology jobs are also posted in different tech websites. Furthermore, many big tech companies including Apple and Microsoft are regularly providing job updates and posting job openings on their websites. Hence, make sure to maximize your time surfing the internet by browsing such websites.
Professional Networking
Establishing productive relationships and connections not only with your colleagues but also with your clients and other individuals within the same field can help you find more opportunities, including the best paying technology jobs. Moreover, you can use different professional networking sites to help you grow your connection and strengthen your network.
Tech Events and Conferences
Maintain active involvement in different technology-related events, forums, and conferences and get first-hand information about the latest trends, researches, innovations, and career opportunities related to technology.
Job Search Tips and Best Practices for Technology Professionals
Aside from the resources mentioned above, we’ll also share with you some tips and best practices you should apply to as you embark on a career in one of the best paying technology jobs.
Get and complete an internship.
In addition to the knowledge and skills you obtained from school, taking an internship is one of the most effective ways to gain hands-on experience and hone your skill sets. Doing so can help you prepare for your professional journey as you take on the corporate role. Likewise, this experience adds value to your application in the future.
Earn industry-related certifications.
Apart from education and experience, certifications can also boost your job application, especially if they’re relevant to the position you’re aiming for. Take note that the IT industry has a lot of certification opportunities which can impress employers. It gives you a competitive edge when you’re equipped with advanced knowledge and skills.
Create a job-winning resume.
To get started with your job search, the first tool you should prepare is your resume. Highlight your skills, credentials, and experience and mention how you can contribute to their organization. Make sure that it’s specifically tailored to the job position you’re applying for by including industry-specific keywords. Doing so can increase the chances of beating the applicant tracking systems (ATS) and grabbing the hiring managers’ attention.
To learn more about what an IT resume should look like, you may review our IT resume examples crafted by our professional resume writers.
Prepare for job interview.
Once you’ve received interview invites, be sure that you’re prepared enough to answer even the most common interview questions. These include the never-ending statements:
Furthermore, don’t forget to research the company, the post you’re applying for, and the industry trends. Subsequently, these will help you ace your job interview.
Land the Best Paying Technology Jobs with the Help of Experts
As mentioned above, employment in the technology sector is projected to grow for the next few years. This means that you have the chance to grab this opportunity to apply for and land one of the best paying technology jobs. All you have to do is equip yourself with experience, skills, and expertise that you can showcase on your resume. However, if you’re struggling in writing your job application tool, Resume Professional Writers has got your back! Our team of expert resume writers can aid you in crafting a job-winning resume. Check out our resume writing services today!
You’re in your senior college year and bound to graduate soon! Surely, you’re in a phase full of twists and turns. Aside from aiming for good grades, you’re also looking forward to build your career and experience in the “real world,” as others say. Here are tips on when to start applying for jobs before graduation. Read on!
The Importance of Knowing When to Start Applying for Jobs
Usually, people look for jobs after graduation. This practice is not entirely wrong. However, with the current job competition, it’s better to start applying for jobs early. Here are the reasons it’s a good career decision:
Saves Time
This may apply to those who want to start working immediately after graduation. Job search takes a lot of time and effort; while some job searchers could find a job post within a week, others last for months. So, if you prefer to work after graduation, then you can start looking for jobs during your final months in school. You can start browsing through online job search sites and scout for companies related to your target career.
Opens More Opportunities
Since you have more time for job search, you will avoid the idea of cramming. There is a pressure to work after graduation. However, for some, this may lead to poor job options and settling to whatever job is open. Looking for jobs early will give you enough time to browse through more careers related to your field. Through this, you’ll also gain ideas on which job online platforms work best.
Better Hiring Chances
Researching companies can also build your mindset for job search. Checking job posts early can prepare you mentally for your dream career path. This gives you more time to think and develop skills that could be your edge, even when you’re still in school. You can also save your target company’s social media pages to keep posted to job posts that match your skills, leading you to better hiring chances.
When to Start Applying for Jobs before Graduation
Applying for a job might vary depending on one’s goals and timeline. Due to the current job landscape and widespread job growth in the wake of the pandemic, there are times when we need to modify our former plans. Even so, planning ahead or even browsing through online job posts could help you prepare for job search and career. Here are some guides for when to start applying for jobs, subject to where you are in your career:
During College
Some colleges or universities offer internship programs for students under a degree. Usually, these are combined into the curriculum and must be completed to gain added skills. Although these programs run over a short period, you may still think of it as a job hiring chance. There are some companies who message their interns after graduation. So, you may want to leave a good impression.
Related Article: Understanding the Differences Between Externship vs Internship
During Graduate School
Graduate school is more advanced and focused than college. There is a chance that the students in this program have specific career tracks in mind. You may start finding a job one to three months before the program completion. You may also take note of the companies you have met for your research as a starting point.
Before You Move Into Another City or Country
There might be times wherein one needs to move into another place upon graduation. So, before you start sending job application to offices in a certain area, ensure that it will be accessible to you. You may want to finalize your moving out plans first before searching for job posts. Although most jobs allow online application, you might still need to visit the place for an interview. Thus, apply to jobs once you’ve found a place to stay.
During Final Months of Senior Year
You can start your job search before your awaited graduation day. If you don’t have a resume yet, then it’s time to read the latest resume trends and cover letter writing tips. Look for job posts one to three months before you exit college. This way, you’ll have enough time to scout the best job posts for fresh grads like you!
What You Need to Apply for Jobs
Resume. This contains one’s work experience, competencies, skills, and accomplishments. This job search tool, whether it’s on paper or in electronic form, will help you market yourself to target employers. Since fresh graduates may not have plenty of work experience, internship programs can serve as a good start. Beef up your resume with internship merits.
Cover Letter. Your cover letter is all about your professional zeal and skills. Use the cover letter as a chance to talk about how your school and internship have helped you become more qualified for the job you’re applying for. You can also mention other projects wherein you showed your leadership skills.
References. This contact list is usually required to check one’s work ethic and skills. Although not all companies ask for a contact list, it’s best to prepare one. You may include your research adviser, former employer, or fellow interns. Choose those who have worked closely with you for better insights. Also, don’t forget to ask for permission before including their names on the list.
Tips in Applying for Jobs Before Graduation
Make your first job application less daunting. Read these tips for added insights!
1. Update your social media profile.
Your social media accounts, such as your Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, might contain all the events you had during your college days. Although it’s okay to upload the good times for memories, you might want to clean your social media handles and set some contents to private before you start applying for jobs. Most hiring managers do a quick research on applicants, so having a decent social media profile is a must.
2. Build your LinkedIn account.
Aside from your usual social media platforms, you might want to create your LinkedIn profile, too. This profile will serve as your professional networking account, especially as a student looking for jobs before graduation. Connect and meet other people in the field. Who knows, you might find your target job through this platform. For more LinkedIn building tips, read this blog: What is LinkedIn?
3. Prepare your resume and cover letter.
Aside from the LinkedIn profile and a clean social media account, you also need to prepare your job search tools. A well-crafted resume and cover letter can greatly increase your chances of getting hired. Resume writing might be tough for first-time job seekers. But this shouldn’t stop you from crafting a resume that works. That said; we came up with the ultimate writing guide to help you craft a resume with no experience.
4. Explore career pathways.
Whether looking for jobs before graduation or afterwards, research is important. Search for more companies related to your degree. Through this, you’ll learn the career tracks that you can pursue. You can also ask your colleagues or former teachers for advice. They could walk you through their work experiences, which could provide you great career insights.
5. Practice job interviews.
Aside from job search tools and online profiles, you must also prepare yourself for interviews before you start applying for jobs. You can conduct practice job interview sessions with your colleagues. You can also read our blog about tips to ace your online job interview.
6. Hit that “apply” button.
Applying jobs for the first time might appear nerve-racking. However, after a few tries, you’ll get the drift and learn other tips too. Also, even if you haven’t received good replies, don’t fret, for this is part of the entire hiring process.
Where to Look for Jobs Before Graduation
Job search may involve time, money, and effort. So, this might consume more resources when you’re still at school. But with the current technology, you can search and apply for jobs in a few clicks. Thanks to the following job search platforms, you can apply for your preferred career anytime.
Online Job Boards. Job boards serve as a “melting pot” for job seekers and hiring managers. These are websites where various employers advertise their job hiring posts. Job boards allow job seekers to filter job posts based on industry and position. It also allows them to attach resumes and cover letters to apply online.
Websites. At times, there are job posts that are not announced on online job boards and exclusively posted on company websites. So, if you have a target company in mind, it’s best to follow their social media accounts for splash job posts.
Job Fair. Some schools host job fairs for the senior class. During this event, companies relevant to a degree are invited to talk about their fields and promote job openings. This is a good chance to explore various career tracks, especially if you’re still unsure of your career goals and looking work after graduation.
Partner with Professional Resume Writers
Plan your career in advance. Now that you have found ideas on when to start applying for jobs before graduation, it’s time to prepare your next steps. Partner with our career coach to boost your job hiring chances. We provide the best resume writing services to help you build your career. Check out our service page or call us to know more about services, discounts, and promos.
You’ve finally landed the job of your dreams, only to realize it isn’t meant for you.
The culture seems off, leadership is distant, and co-workers disengaged.
What should you do?
First of all, realize you’re hardly alone. Harvard Business Review says in So You Want to Quit Your Brand-New Job that 30% of 2022 hires are leaving their jobs in the first 90 days. The Guardian reports even more employees (70%) are shocked enough at the new workplace culture that they’re considering whether to stay.
No matter the situation, here’s how to strategically figure out your next steps:
Analyze what you could gain by staying in the new job.
Perhaps you negotiated desirable benefits or compensation that make you feel you should ride it out, such as:
A salary bump that makes other areas of your life easier (like the ability to afford quality child care or ease worry over rising inflation).
A new job title that means you’ll have more leverage as you rise up the career ladder in future roles.
New, in-demand skills you’ll earn in training, or additional responsibilities that will help make you even more valuable in your field.
These positives may outweigh any other part of the decision.
The corporate culture and team atmosphere may not be a fit, but if you can maintain your position long enough to reap long-term rewards, the discomfort may be a small price to pay. The point is to think strategically; will you be GLAD you stuck it out?
Look carefully to see if a quick exit will save your mental health.
Jobvite’s 2022 Job Seeker Nation Report reveals that 65% of all workers believe you can get a good idea of the company culture in less than a month.
In other words, pay attention to your intuition. Call past mentors or colleagues to discuss what’s going on and whether it makes sense to throw in the towel.
Maybe you can’t bear to deal with the new job for even another week, due to:
Promises made to you that are now broken, despite your best effort to carefully negotiate aspects such as remote work, specific benefits, or compensation.
An atmosphere so toxic that you’re concerned for your mental health.
Signals from past or current colleagues, such as comments about how they can’t believe you took the job.
Practices that would land in the Ask A Manager column, where you’ll see questions on crazy workplaces.
Any of these situations would show your fears are warranted.
If there’s still a strong market for your skills (meaning that recruiters and employers are seeking you out), it could make sense to leap now, rather than waiting for things to get worse.
Prepare for an eventual (or immediate) job search.
Even if you’re planning to stick it out for a while, always, always, ALWAYS be on the lookoutfor your next opportunity.
First, identify employers you admire using parameters such as industry, products, or company size. Then, assess their company culture (which you can look up on Glassdoor). Reach out to insiders and make connections, follow them on social media, read company news, and check out their mission statement to get an idea of their values.
Next, brush up your resume and LinkedIn profile with data-driven achievements; see What Should Your Resume Look Like in 2022?
Give compelling details on how you’ve consistently added value as a strong leader or professional in past positions, using an easy-to-navigate format reflective of the position you’re pursuing.
If you’re leaving your new job immediately, you may be able to omit it from your resume or LinkedIn for a few months, but you’ll need to prepare a strategy for discussing this at the interview.
Develop and refine a short, powerful statement that outlines your value proposition to ideal employers. Use it as your elevator pitch and incorporate it into your cover letter.
Re-activate your network – and relaunch your search.
Maybe you didn’t reach out to others during your previous job search. However, it’s never too late to build a strong network.
Notify your personal and professional contacts that you’re on the move and show gratitude for leads or information they share with you.
Spend time getting to know THEIR job status and find out how you can repay them by staying in touch, writing a recommendation, or even assisting them in their own search efforts.
Consider contacting employers from your previous job hunt; they may have hired a candidate who didn’t work out. Respectfully let them know you’re back on the market and stay on their radar.
If you’re looking at job postings, decide if the role and employer match your desired criteria and workplace fit (you don’t want to get burned twice; see Fast Company’s How to Identify a Toxic Culture Before Accepting a Job Offer). Job postings can sometimes signal unrealistic expectations, so read between the lines.
Your job search will be considerably faster if you use a variety of methods to find ideal positions, including discussions with recruiters, online job postings, and job leads from your network, coupled with interviewing skills that strike the right impression with employers.
To summarize, you must review your options with a clear head if you’ve found yourself in a less-than-ideal position. Carefully consider what’s MOST important to you and how each option fits your long-term career plan.
It can make sense to stay for a while if the new role benefits you, or simply jump ship and restart a fresh, strategically planned job search.
We live in a world where there are numerous opportunities for growth in all aspects of life, including career. Job seekers have one common goal—to land their target job. One way to achieve this is by ensuring your job search documents are well-written. Make sure your job search tools—from your resume to your LinkedIn skills section—exhibit why you’re the best fit for the role.
Having a robust resume and other job application tools can increase your chance of getting the attention of recruiters. That said; you need to ensure that these documents can reflect how capable you are to take on the job. Remember, your resume and other job search tools are your first line of defense in marketing yourself to employers.
If you want to succeed in your job search, you are on the right page. We will discuss how you can improve your LinkedIn skills section, its importance and effect on your job application, and the skills to add to your LinkedIn profile.
Importance of Listing Key Skills on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is one of the tools that can help you secure your target post. This is because most employers do a background check before hiring a candidate. They do this by checking the LinkedIn profiles of the applicants. Thus, it’s important to keep your profile updated and make sure it properly showcases your skills and qualifications.
Also, LinkedIn has a feature that lets you connect with other professionals and search for jobs. These features allow you to get job vacancy notifications. Because of that, looking for job opportunities has become easier.
Related Post: How to Write a Captivating LinkedIn Profile to Get You Hired Fast
This LinkedIn skills section is one of the most important features of LinkedIn. Hence, it’s best to take advantage of this. Here are the 3 most common benefits of maximizing the LinkedIn skills section.
1. Leave a Good Impression
As mentioned earlier, most recruiters evaluate the job applicants’ qualifications on their resume as well as on their LinkedIn profile. You need to make sure your skills and other info can leave a good mark. You can do this by effectively selecting relevant skills to showcase that you have the qualities potential employers are looking for.
Related Post: Tips in Choosing the Best LinkedIn Background Photo to Boost Your Profile
2. Improve Online Presence
When you maximize your LinkedIn skills section, it gives your profile a boost and makes it more searchable. The skills you include serve as keywords that are helpful in classifying your profile and filtering job opportunities. Plus, according to LinkedIn, the LinkedIn skills section boosts the chance of profile visibility.
3. Increase Chance of Getting Hired
Listing what you are best at gives hiring managers an overview whether or not you’re worth giving a shot. Your LinkedIn skills should include all your expertise that’s listed on your resume. This is so recruiters can validate your qualifications and evaluate if they suit the position.
Related Posts:Boost Your Job Search with Well-Written Resume and Cover Letter and Resume Trends for 2022 to Kick-Start Your New Career
How to Manage Skills on Your LinkedIn Profile
Your LinkedIn skills list should be targeted to fully benefit from it. Nonetheless, you need to manage your skill set and optimize your LinkedIn profile based on that. Don’t worry if you don’t have any idea how to, because we’ve listed some practical ways to manage your LinkedIn profile skills.
Adding LinkedIn Skills
Managing LinkedIn skills isn’t that complicated. You just need to go to your profile and look for the skills section. Click on the plus sign to add your expertise. You can also add skills by clicking “Add Profile Section” below your headline, then selecting “Add Skills.”
You can list as many skills as you want. However, keep in mind that all skills should be aligned with your profile and career choice. Otherwise, it defies its purpose—giving an overview of why you’re the best candidate.
Expert Tip: Take the LinkedIn Skills Assessment to validate your expertise and know more skills you can add.
Editing the List
Once you already have the list of your skills, you can edit and rearrange them by scrolling all the way down to the LinkedIn Skills section. There you will see a pencil icon on the right-side of the screen. Clicking that allows you to edit that section.
Updating LinkedIn Skills
Keeping your profile up to date helps you get more job opportunities. Hence, make sure to update your LinkedIn skills, too. You can add a new skill or delete some by clicking the pencil icon, then selecting “Delete Skill.”
Related Post: Ways to List and Create Headings for Job Skills on a Resume
How to Endorse Skills on LinkedIn
Another feature of LinkedIn that helps professionals to have a wider network and a better chance of landing their target career is skills endorsement. This lets you and your connections endorse each other. Doing so boosts your credibility, as it’s a way for recruiters to see if your skills are validated and attested to by other professionals.
Leverage this feature by asking your connections to endorse your skills. You can also do the same for them by clicking on their profile. After that, go to the skills section and locate the expertise you want to vouch for. Then, click on the “Endorse” button.
Expert Tip: Get more endorsements by endorsing your connections. You can also ping your colleagues, mentors, classmates, and other people on your connection list who know what you’re capable of.
Top Skills to Add on Your LinkedIn Profile
Needless to say, the skills section—both on LinkedIn and on your resume—is important. Your qualifications and expertise are your keys to receiving an interview invite, and later getting hired. Therefore, you need to make sure to include both soft and hard skills in your job search tools. Check out our list of in-demand LinkedIn skills.
Top 20 Soft Skills
Active listening
Adaptability
Attention to detail
Collaboration
Communication
Creativity
Emotional intelligence
Empathy
Flexibility
Lateral thinking
Leadership
Open-mindedness
Organizational skills
Persuasion
Proactiveness
Problem solving
Resiliency
Sense of Efficiency
Teamwork
Time management
Hard Skills
Administration
Analytical reasoning
Artificial intelligence
Blockchain
Business management and development
Cloud computing
Content marketing and management
Digital marketing
Network and information security
Programming
Project management
Research
Sales
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Social media
Storage systems and management
Strategic planning
UX and UI designs
Video production
Web analytics
Helpful Posts to Boost Your LinkedIn Profile:
Tips in Listing LinkedIn Skills
Highlighting what you can bring to the table is crucial to rising above the pool of qualified candidates. That’s why knowing the top skills isn’t enough to seal the deal. You need to effectively plot your skills on your LinkedIn profile. That way, recruiters and hiring managers can have a quick look and weigh if you have what it takes to be part of their team.
To help you make the most of your LinkedIn skills section, here are some surefire tips for you to heed.
List them down.
The first tip is to list down all your skills, especially the most relevant ones for your career path. The LinkedIn skills section allows you to add up to 50 skills. Guess what? It’s fine to maximize it. The more skills you have, the better chance you’ll get more endorsements, leading to a more visible profile.
Plot them out.
Once you have the list of skills, rearrange them based on what’s more important and relevant to your profession and the career you’re leaning towards. This way, recruiters will easily see if you have the necessary qualifications to take on the job.
Keep them up to date.
To benefit from your LinkedIn skills section, you need to keep it updated. Add skills that you recently learned and delete those that aren’t that relevant.
Have Expert Professionals Revamp Your LinkedIn Skills Section
Many people strive hard to achieve their definitions of success, and we all have different ways of reaching our dreams. Did you know there’s an easier way to have your dream job? What you need is the help of a professional career development specialist who can aid you in your job search.
Get ready to reach the heights of your career ladder with a job-winning resume and a revamped LinkedIn profile. Let our expert resume writers take on the journey with you to fulfill your career goals. Connect with us today!
The process of finding the right job isn’t always easy. Some people keep hunting for their dream jobs for years without any success. With each failed attempt, their self-esteem suffers, and they start to doubt their capabilities. There are many hurdles that one may face on their job hunting journey that can only be overcome with the help of experience and wisdom. Professional resume writers can help many of these struggling candidates with the hindsight and knowledge earned over decades spent in the human resources sector.
Here are a few mistakes job seekers should avoid when seeking employment in this era of technology and innovation.
1. Lack of Direction
Many job seekers who are starting their careers get distracted by every opportunity that comes their way. These candidates apply for numerous roles in multiple industries and end up confusing themselves as well as their prospective employers. Set a goal at the beginning of your job hunt and work towards achieving it with focus and dedication. Aim for a specific job title in a particular industry and keep making efforts until you see the desired results. Most importantly, hire resume writers that can help modify your profile to attract the right companies.
2. Errors and Typos
Do you forget to proofread your emails and messages before sending them to hiring executives and managers? Believe it or not, this seemingly minor mistake could be turning prospective employers away. Hiring managers don’t have the time to read your entire profiles or write-ups and often look solely for mistakes in the text. Once they find them, they move on to the next candidate. Use resume writing services online and get your official documents edited and inspected for any errors that might be ruining your chances of getting an interview call.
9 Mistakes to Avoid While Job-Hunting 4
3. An Unupdated LinkedIn Profile
Interested employers will look at your LinkedIn profile right after receiving your CV. By keeping a well-maintained profile, you will not only impress these employers but also invite many other opportunities your way. Avail the services of professional LinkedIn Profile writing and use your online presence to expand your scope of employment.
4. Not Realizing Your Value
Some industries determine the value of an employee based entirely on their skill set, while others prioritize experience over every other quality. When a candidate understands their market value based on their skills and qualification, interviewers can have an easy time negotiating. Lack of research often leads to misconceptions regarding one’s worth in the job market. Before showing up for your next interview, make sure you have a clear idea of how much your talent is worth to make the hiring process easier for all involved parties.
5. Lack of Preparation
People who have been working in the same industry for years often don’t realize the importance of preparing for an interview. Every employer is different, so make sure you research the company well before a meeting or interview so your responses are relevant to their queries.
9 Mistakes to Avoid While Job-Hunting 5
6. Networking Mistakes
Networking isn’t about just adding a bunch of contacts to your phone. You might have many influential people on your contacts list, but unless you reach out to them effectively, they are of no use. Make a habit of talking less and listening more when connecting with resourceful people. The returns of good networking practices can only be realized in the long run, and you must stay patient throughout the process.
7. Pestering an Employer
Once you have submitted your CV to an employer, you have to give them sufficient time to review it and decide. Inquiring about the progress of your application multiple times will do you more harm than good. Badgering an employer will never improve your chances of getting a job. Knowing when to move on is important for your morale and self-confidence. It can save you valuable time that can be spent searching for the next opportunities.
9 Mistakes to Avoid While Job-Hunting 6
8. Inappropriate Email Address
If you have multiple email addresses, make sure to specify the most appropriate one on your CV. If an employer notices an unprofessional email address on a resume, they might not bother reading the entire profile and move on to the next CV right away.
9. Losing Hope
After getting rejected by a couple of companies, you may feel discouraged. However, don’t be disheartened. You might not realize how close you are to the perfect opportunity. Pat yourself on the back after each successful or unsuccessful interview, and hold your head up high until you see the horizon. Your enthusiasm can be the biggest tool for you to land your dream job, so use this tool effectively.
Resume Professional Writers has helped many employment candidates secure the job of their dreams with their professional resume designer services. The professional CV writing services provided by the company make the journey of job hunting quick and efficient.
A salary bump that makes other areas of your life easier (like the ability to afford quality child care or ease worry over rising inflation).
Employ Inc.’s 2022 Job Seeker Nation Report reveals that 65% of all workers believe you can get a good idea of the company culture in less than a month.
First, identify employers you admire using parameters such as industry, products, or company size. Then, assess their company culture (which you can look up on Glassdoor).
Maybe you didn’t reach out to others during your previous job search. However, it’s never too late to build a strong network.
