Summer break has begun, giving you a chance to spend time with friends and family, and don’t forget the importance of rest and self-care. The semester break also offers you the opportunity to explore your career options, develop your employability skills and build your experience. Here’s some ideas to get you started.
Do some research
Take some time to explore potential employers, their culture and values, and the opportunities they have available. A simple way to start is by browsing company websites and social media channels.
Understanding your target companies will help you tailor your job applications and interviews to their specific needs and will be beneficial when you start applying for internships or jobs in the future.
Work on your personal brand
Spend time over the break building your personal brand, as a well-crafted and consistent personal brand can make you more attractive to potential employers. You could start by ensuring your social media accounts reflect the brand you want to portray. Create or update your LinkedIn profile and then, maybe, take your brand a step further by creating an e-portfolio or starting a blog.
Take an online course
Use your time off to enhance your existing skills or develop some new ones that are in demand. Online courses can be free, with the flexibility to fit in around your other commitments. Remember, the more skills you acquire and develop, the more attractive you become to future employers. To begin building up your marketable skills, try Curtin Challenge.
Update your resume
A strong resume is a must if you want that competitive advantage in today’s job market. During the break, revamp your resume, highlighting your recent achievements, new experiences and skills gained through your studies and/or work experience. Don’t forget, you can receive instant resume feedback 24/7 through Curtin VMock.
Build your network
Use your semester break to connect with professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join online forums and utilise LinkedIn to build your network. You can gain valuable insights into specific roles, learn what it’s like to work in different sectors, and even find out about future job opportunities.
Gain practical experience
Working over the break can help boost your workplace behaviours and skills and, if you land a job that’s directly related to your future career aspirations, that’s a an even bigger bonus. Try looking for casual positions or internships related to your field of study where you can apply your classroom knowledge in real-world situations.
Any role can add value to your resume, and be great practice for future placements, internships, or grad programs. It can also be an opportunity to meet new people, develop new relationships and begin building your professional network.
Volunteering is another great way to gain practical experience, with the added bonus of giving back to the community at the same time. Try looking for opportunities that align with your values and career interest – Curtin Volunteers! is a great place to start.
Get help from the experts
Curtin Careers is running a series of interactive, online sessions – Career Ready – from Monday 20 to Thursday 23 November. These workshops cover career planning, job applications and professional identity.
And, if you’re interested in any session but can’t make it on the day, book in anyway and we’ll send you the slides and recording link after the event.
This article was written by Career Development Consultant, Tania McKiernan.
