If you have graduated recently you may not have settled into a career yet. Many graduates find themselves employed in non-graduate or casual jobs after leaving university. This is a common situation and is likely to improve. However, you do need to be proactive in improving your prospects.
You will find much of what you need relating to career research, job hunting and selling yourself in the student pages. Here are a few suggestions for using your time wisely:
Your temporary work can provide development opportunities if you go out of your way to find them. Try some of these:
Review your qualifications, and consider what you could add to them; e.g. have you got certificated evidence of your I.T. skills? Do you have Maths and English GCSE? Would a first aid or coaching certificate be an advantage? Short courses are often available locally at reasonable cost. Look at the Learndirect website or phone 0800 100 900. Educational activity shows employers commitment and an interest in self-development
You may have decided to take time out for travel, or be unable to enter the employment market immediately due to family responsibilities or ill health. If you are travelling, try to plan constructively for your return, make the most of your opportunities, and give some thought to what you are getting out of it which is of interest to employers. For tips on how to market your time out, see Prospects Gap Year information.
If you are not available for work for personal reasons, keep planning for the future; your experiences will be useful in some way to employers. Take any additional opportunities you can, such as volunteering or studying.
Experience has shown us that persistence and determination really do work. Be as thorough as you can and keep on trying. If you feel demoralised, work on your positive attitude.
Try this quiz from Windmills or contact a careers and employability adviser.