From University to Work: Tips for your Career Entry after your Studies

1. Individually tailored application: Every application should be tailored to the respective position and company. Standardized or impersonal applications do not make a good impression. It is important to highlight your own qualifications, experience and skills in relation to the requirements of the job advertisement.
2. Compelling résumé: The résumé is the central element of the application. Particularly for career entry after your studies, it is important to highlight practical experience (such as internships, working student jobs or projects) and relevant skills. Soft skills such as teamwork, communication skills and initiative should also be clearly evident. The résumé should also be clear and well structured.
3. Cover letter with added value: The cover letter is an opportunity to introduce yourself and explain your motivation for the desired position. Here, alumni should show why they are particularly suited for this position and what they can offer the company. A good cover letter stands out thanks to clear arguments and enthusiasm for the position.
4. Practical experience and projects: Employers place a high value on practical experience. Alumni should therefore mention all relevant activities that they have gained during their studies or internships. These experiences show that applicants have already gained their first insights into the world of work and are ready to face the demands of professional life.
5. Soft skills and personality: In addition to professional qualifications, soft skills such as the ability to work in a team, initiative, time management and communication skills are often crucial. These skills should be demonstrated in the résumé and cover letter with specific examples. Your own personality also plays a role – a personable, authentic appearance leaves a positive impression.
6. Further training and additional qualifications: Additional qualifications, such as language skills, IT skills or further training, can increase your chances of starting your career. They show that applicants are willing to continuously work on themselves and further educate themselves, which is highly valued by employers.
7. Professional networks and recommendations: Particularly when starting a career, networks and recommendations can be of great importance. Contacts made during studies or internships can be helpful when applying for a job. It is worth using your own networks and, if necessary, getting recommendations.
8. Professional appearance: In addition to the application documents, personal appearance also plays a central role, especially in the interview. Alumni should prepare well for interviews in order to convincingly convey their skills and motivation. Professional appearance, punctuality and a positive attitude are just as important here as preparation in terms of content.

When entering the workforce after your studies, it comes down to a successful mix of professional qualifications, practical experience, personal aptitude and an authentic appearance. A tailored application that highlights both your strengths and your fit for the desired position is the key to success.

1. Identify the reasons: First of all, you should find out exactly what it is about your job that bothers you. Is it the tasks, the corporate culture, the working environment, the colleagues or perhaps a lack of development opportunities? Sometimes it is specific problems that can be solved. In other cases, it is a general dissatisfaction that could make a change necessary.
   • Questions you can ask yourself:
     • Is it the nature of the work or the content of the tasks that frustrates me?
     • Are there problems with team dynamics or management culture?
     • Do I feel like I can't develop?
     • Do I feel uncomfortable in the corporate culture or structure?
2. Talk to your manager: Before making a decision, it can be helpful to talk to your manager. They may be able to suggest ways to modify your tasks or create challenges that better match your interests and abilities. An open discussion can reveal that you are dissatisfied, and managers can often offer solutions you hadn't considered.
3. Explore short-term solutions: Sometimes it is enough to make small changes to restore satisfaction. This could involve taking on new tasks, changing departments or organizing your working hours more flexibly. Before you consider changing jobs, check whether there are areas that you can actively change yourself.
4. Further training or development opportunities: Dissatisfaction can also arise when you feel you are not learning enough or seeing any development prospects. You may lack further training opportunities or challenges. Ask for training, further education or projects that will expand your skills and give you new impetus.
5. Build your network: Even if you are not yet sure whether you want to change jobs, it can be useful to expand your professional network. Networking not only gives you insights into other companies or industries, but also helps you identify future opportunities. Platforms like LinkedIn can help you make contacts and explore new possibilities.
6. Think about changing jobs: If you decide that changing jobs is the best solution, you should plan the change well. Start exploring the job market and looking for jobs that better suit your interests and skills. Be clear about your priorities – do you want more flexible working hours, a new industry or different tasks? Create a clear vision of what is important to you in a new job.
7. Don't rush quitting: It can be tempting to quit a job immediately if you don't like it, but it's often better to have a new job before you quit. This gives you financial security and more time to find a really suitable position. Quitting hastily can cause additional stress.
8. Consider a career change: If you find that you are generally dissatisfied with your professional field or industry, it might make sense to consider a career change. This could mean further training, acquiring an additional qualification or even taking a completely new direction. There are many opportunities to start a new career, even after your studies or several years in the professional world.
9. Self-reflection and long-term planning: Take time for self-reflection: What are your long-term professional and personal goals? Sometimes, temporary dissatisfaction can be exacerbated by external factors such as stress, overwork or personal challenges. A clearer perspective on your desires and goals will help you to take the next step consciously.
10. Seek advice: If you are unsure whether a job change is the right step for you, it can be helpful to seek professional advice. Career coaches or mentors can support you in the decision-making process and help you develop a clear strategy.

If you don't like your job, it's important to analyze the reasons for your dissatisfaction and consider possible solutions before acting hastily. Whether it's a clarifying conversation, a change of tasks or a complete job change – the right strategy depends on your individual needs and goals. Planning and self-reflection are key to making a decision that will satisfy you in the long term.