Navigating the First Job Hunt: A Journey from Fresh Graduate to HR Professional

Introduction to the First Job Hunt

Juggling family expectations and personal aspirations, landing my first job at 19 was a challenging yet exhilarating experience. Growing up in the small town of Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, I realized early on that my journey to success would be unique and filled with both joy and hardships. My journey to finding my first job began after completing my B.E. in Automobile Engineering from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in 2018. Despite the challenges, I managed to secure a position within 15 days.

Challenges Faced by Fresh Graduates

As a fresher coming from a middle-class family, my job search was filled with obstacles. I started my job hunt by interviewing at 45 companies near my hometown, but realized that most had no vacancies at the time. Frustration began to build as I saw my peers securing jobs while I struggled. However, my friends' success stories motivated me to continue applying, both offline and online.

The Scam Experience

After receiving a positive response from a consultancy, they demanded 500 INR for interview arrangements. Much to my dismay, this turned out to be a scam. This setback though, spurred me to pursue more genuine job opportunities, eventually leading me to an on-ground application process.

Offline Job Applications

After several rounds of interviews, I successfully secured a position as a service advisor with a salary of 10,000 INR. Although the salary was low, the feeling of accomplishment was immense. This marked the beginning of my real-world experience.

Job Hunting Strategies

For those looking for their first job, here are some key strategies:

Online Job Hunting Resources

Download Job Applications: In India, utilize job apps to create a profile and search for nearby job postings. Companies and recruiters post their venues for interviews, making it easier to schedule. However, it's important to verify the authenticity of the job listings to avoid scams.

Trust Employment Agencies

I started my job search by registering with an employment agency that assisted me in finding work. Though I initially volunteered without pay, my passion for interviewing candidates and my experience made it worthwhile. Eventually, I secured a position as a Personnel Assistant at a small international bank.

Utilize HR Expertise

For a smoother transition into a human resources career, don't shy away from hands-on experience. By working in recruitment, you can gain valuable insights into the industry. This will not only increase your chances of securing a job but also prepare you for roles in human resources.

Conclusion

My journey from a fresh graduate to an HR professional has been filled with lessons, failures, and successes. The key to success lies in persistent effort, avoiding scams, and making informed decisions. By leveraging both online resources and offline job opportunities, as well as utilizing the expertise of employment agencies, you too can navigate the job market successfully.