Lack of experience, a competitive job market, and unrealistic salary expectations are just a few hurdles new graduates may face.
You’re a High School Graduate!
Congratulations on graduating high school! Now you’re ready to tackle the exciting (and sometimes daunting) world of work. Summer is a prime time for high school graduates to enter the workforce, but it’s not without its challenges. Here are the top ten hurdles you might face and how to overcome them:
Top Ten Hurdles and Solutions:
1. Lack of Experience: Employers often seek prior experience, which can feel like a catch-22 for new graduates.
Solution: Highlight transferable skills! Did you participate in sports or clubs? These experiences showcase teamwork, communication, and commitment. Volunteer work also demonstrates initiative and a willingness to learn.
2. A Competitive Job Market: With many graduates vying for the same positions, standing out is crucial.
Solution: Tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job. Research the company and highlight skills relevant to their needs.
3. Limited Job Search Skills: Crafting a resume, writing a cover letter, and acing job interviews are all new skills for most graduates.
Solution: Many schools offer career prep resources. Utilize them! Practice writing resumes and cover letters, and conduct mock interviews with teachers or counselors.
4. Unrealistic Salary Expectations: While financial independence is a great motivator, understand that entry-level positions typically offer lower salaries.
Solution: Research average salaries for your desired job title and location. Be flexible and focus on gaining experience that can lead to higher-paying roles in the future.
5. Overwhelmed by the Options: So many jobs, so little time!
Solution: Take career assessments or talk to a career counselor to identify your strengths and interests. This will help you narrow down your job search.
6. Difficulty Balancing Work and Life: Juggling a job with social activities and relaxation can be tricky.
Solution: Create a schedule and stick to it. Communicate your availability clearly to both your employer and your friends/family.
7. Transportation Challenges: Without a car, getting to work can be a hurdle.
Solution: Explore public transportation options or see if carpooling is feasible. Many employers offer flexible work arrangements or even subsidize public transportation passes.
8. Fear of Failure: Stepping into a new environment can be nerve-wracking.
Solution: Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Embrace the learning experience and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most employers value a willingness to learn over immediate expertise.
9. Limited Professional Network: Not everyone has a network of working adults for advice and connections.
Solution: Talk to family members, friends, or teachers who work. Attend career fairs or networking events to connect with professionals in your field of interest. Utilize online platforms like LinkedIn to build your professional network.
10. Feeling Unsure About Your Future Career Path: Many high school graduates haven’t settled on a career path yet.
Solution: Summer jobs are a great way to explore different industries! Try a variety of positions to discover what excites you.
You’re Ready to Apply!
The good news? There are plenty of in-demand jobs that typically only require a high school diploma! Here are some of the top contenders according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor:
- Customer Service Representatives
- Cashiers
- Retail Salespersons
- Waiters and Waitresses
- Combined Food Service Workers
- Nursing Assistants
- Landscapers and Groundskeepers
- Stock Clerks and Order Fillers
- Construction Laborers
- Janitors and Cleaners
Conclusion:
Remember, everyone has to have their first job and first jobs are great opportunities to learn about what you want or don’t want in an occupation. Embrace the learning experience, explore different industries, and remember that every first job is a stepping stone to a fulfilling career. Let your goal be to accept the challenges, learn new skills, make connections, and build a strong work ethic. This summer job could be the launchpad to a fulfilling and successful career path!
Extra Tip:
The Bureau of Labor Statistics Website contains a link to an Occupational Handbook that you can use to search for occupations that require only a high school diploma or equivalent. To use this tool,
· Search the BLS website for https://www.bls.gov/ooh/
· Once on the Occupational Outlook Handbook homepage, use the search bar and type in “high school diploma” or “HS diploma”
· The search results will display various occupations that typically require a high school diploma.