Getting on the career path - job hunting in your 20s

The beginning of your career is an exciting time. Without many of the financial and life commitments that come in later years, it's a time when you can take a bit of a chance on a job - moving to a new city or even a new country or pushing yourself to learn new skills.

But it can be daunting, too - those first cover letters and interviews can be nerve-wracking. Even if you have had part-time jobs already, it's a big step up to your first real-life career rung. So, we've put together some top tips to help you get started in your job search.

Tips for getting started on the career ladder

Think about your career goals: You might need any job that pays you regularly, but if you can, think about the career path you want and target your job search towards roles that will help you make progress. Look for jobs that will help you develop relevant skills and perhaps close gaps in your learning.

Emphasise your skills over experience: As a younger job seeker, you might not have much experience to show on your CV. You can combat that by emphasising your transferable skills instead and by highlighting super-relevant parts of any jobs you have had. For example, your experience as a part-time barista during your college years will have taught you people skills and money management. A good cover letter can do wonders to help you stand out here. Need some help with that? We’ve got you covered with our cover letter guide.

Be bold and go for roles you aren't 100% qualified for: Seen a role where you tick 90% of the boxes? Give it a try - you have nothing to lose, and you might just get it. Be positive and highlight ways that you can develop the skills you don't currently have or what else you can bring to the role.

Consider volunteering or interning: If you have the time and financial capability, volunteering or an unpaid internship while you are studying or before you find full-time work can be a good way to get a foot in the door of your industry.

Be clear on what you want but be prepared to compromise: Post Covid-19, the work landscape has changed but that doesn't mean you can just demand anything, especially not at the start of your career. It's not bad to want to work from home some days or have other perks added to your salary package, so don't be afraid to be clear about what you want. But you do need to be willing to compromise.

Remember that a job doesn't have to be for life: Some people panic and think the job they get now is the one they will be in for the next 20 years. But it doesn't work like that anymore. While employers always want employees to stay as long as possible, job hopping - moving to a new job every couple of years - is more common today. Even if your first job doesn't tick all your dream boxes, it could be a stepping stone to get there.

It's also a great idea to start building your network early on. Whether it's reaching out to people you admire or have experience in an industry you want to work in or networking with peers, starting your network now will lead to solid connections when you are looking to change jobs or return to work later on.