What’s it like to start your career anew?

In today’s world of work, finding an opportunity and going through the interviewing process to secure a job that is fit with one’s goals and qualifications is a challenge. Embarking on such a journey for the first time after graduation, or upon joining the workforce, can thus be overwhelming- where to start??

Career experts offer their advice to fresh graduates and career starters below, along with data from LinkedIn offering an insight into two expat-oriented jobs markets: UAE and Saudi Arabia, and what they look for when it comes to entry-level roles.?

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The LinkedIn Career Starters report shows that hospitality and food services were the top industries for career starters in the UAE in 2021, with popular entry-level roles such as food and beverage assistant, commis chef, room attendant, salesperson and guest services associate. In Saudi Arabia, technology and IT services, and oil and gas were the top industries, with jobs like software engineer, customer service specialist and mechanical engineer driving up their ranking.

Hospitality and events grew their entry-level hires in 2021 in the UAE, demanding skills such as customer service and project management. Non-profit organizations and the maritime transportation industries saw the most growth in entry-level hiring in Saudi during the past year.?

“Don't let ghosting or rejections pull you down. Be visible and keep working towards getting a job.”

Talent acquisition manager Alba Castillo advised fresh graduates to maximize their chances in finding their first opportunity in the jobs market by:?

• Applying for internship programs;
• Exploring the startup market, since a lot of startups search for attitude rather than experience;
• Developing new skills (especially in Excel, PowerPoint, Data management..etc..);
• Working on interpersonal skills of being self-aware, flexible, creative and an initiative taker;?
• Never being afraid to try new things.

As an expat who first? joined the UAE workforce during the past year, human resources professional Nimisha Nair reminds job seekers to be consistent . “Don't let ghosting or rejections pull you down. Be visible and keep working towards getting a job. You never know, the next opportunity might be for you,” she adds.?

Freelancing for a while and/or before graduation can be an easier way to enter the job market, adds Victor Latson. “Start fielding individual opportunities to hone your skills and showcase your ability. This I believe gives one a chance to see a broader perspective of their work requirements and also industry experience to add to their portfolio.”

And finally Nikolina touches on an important note in the job search journey for someone just getting started:

“Own who you are, your experience and your knowledge. You might not have 20 years of experience behind you, but you are 20 years younger, more technologically advanced and eager to grow. Don't let anyone underestimate you, but be humble and open to constructive criticism and feedback.”?

• LinkedIn Career Starters report in the UAE , Saudi Arabia and Egypt .
• Check out Lynn Chouman 's live conversation with May Wazzan on identifying the soft skills that might ‘make or break’ your chances of getting a job and how to develop theme.

What was the advice or experience that stood out the most back when you were starting your career? Have more tips for career starters? Share them in the comments below.