I Can’t Find A Job Right Now…What Should I Be Doing?

We have seen the effects that COVID-19 has had on businesses, but how has it affected you? Yes, you! The creative who recently graduated and needs three to five years of experience in your field. Are you the graphic designer, advertiser, creative strategist, or photographer that wants to apply what they learned in school? Trust us, we have all been in your shoes. The situation may have looked a little different, but thousands of students struggle every year to find a job in their field and sometimes being in the creative arts field can be the most difficult. But all is not lost! Here are a few tips on what you can do to take advantage of the extra time you have as you prepare to land that job:

1. Continue Educating Yourself
   
   We tend to always forget that learning never stops. New things are introduced each day—new technology, new software, new techniques, etc. It’s up to you to make sure that you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and happenings.
   
   
2. Learn a New Skill
   
   It’s never too late to learn a new skill. With all the time that you have, we would suggest applying yourself in other areas. Are you into video production? What about Adobe After Effects? Maybe you could watch a few tutorials and teach yourself some new animation skills.
   
   If you are into social media management, take some time to learn what it takes to place media on various channels. Start designing your own social media posts and learn which apps are the best to help with that.
   
   Whatever the skill, trust us when we say you can never have too many...just make sure you try to go a little more in-depth with them.
   
   
3. Build Your Portfolio
   
   A portfolio doesn’t have to consist of real work. Why not take some time to do some mock-ups? Sketch out some ideas, recreate an ad from another business, write some sample blog posts...there are multiple possibilities. Taking the time to apply your skills, while you are at home, will help you stay sharp and even show your future employer that you're passionate and dedicated to what you do.
   
   These portfolio projects are also a great way to show future employers your thought process and creativity. Show your work to a trusted professor or even a few industry professionals that you are connected to and let them give you some critiques. You could even share some of your work on LinkedIn (yes, that's a thing) and gain some feedback from others in your field. This will help you continue to improve your skills and prepare you for when you land the job!

4. Update and Perfect Resume
   
   Nothing screams “HIRE ME” more than a good resume, so make sure yours is up-to-date with the most recent and impressive information. We always suggest making a large resume that you can pair down depending on the job. Remember, not all information is relevant information— most places still suggest a one-page resume, especially if you have minimal experience.
   
   
5. Research, Research, RESEARCH!
   
   Last but not least, you’ve got to do your research! You must understand the organization you are applying for. Many businesses love when you can tell them things about themselves that they didn’t put in the job description (don't you just love brownie points?). Before you apply for a position, make sure you walk through their website and get a feel for what they do, their personnel, etc. Learn more about who you are submitting your resume to (if you have access to that information).
   
   Before your interview, make sure you brief yourself on some of the big things the client has been able to accomplish. Check out some of their latest work/campaigns. Read about their culture and processes so that you will be ready to speak on it if they happen to ask a question. If something you researched fits in the conversation, definitely mention it.

We could go on and on about what you could do, but we think this is a good list to get you going! We aren’t sure what the future holds, but we are standing with you, rooting for you and all of your endeavors. Remember, you’ve got this! It may not be the easiest journey, but when you get the job, you will be so happy that you put in the work!