Last week was another exciting time for corps members as they passed out of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to enter the “real world,” and put their coursework to the real test of landing a great job worthy of their hard work, sweat and perhaps tears.

Just as the Batch A corps members passed out last week, another batch is preparing to pass out in another few months, while some graduates are anxiously waiting to be mobilised into the scheme.

One of the major questions many have been asking before graduation from school and eventual passing out of NYSC is, “how do I land a great job after graduation?”

Although there seems to be no secret recipe or definite answer to that question, there are some strategic techniques that will inevitably contribute to successfully landing a great first job, which in return sets the tone for your entire career.

Here are some useful tactics that could be helpful in your professional trajectory.

1. Be a graduate of the game!

You must continuously learn about the industry you are striving to be in. Those who excel in any field are stewards and students of the “game.” And we all know, you must be in the game to win.

Education is constant and includes a continuous study of new technology, industry advancements and major players in the game who are thriving

No one will ask or fight for you more than yourself. We get what we go after and what we ask for, but in order to do so, we must know our value including undeniable, unique attributes to help score more points (money).

2. Make sure your resume sells what you can do

Try as much as possible to ensure your resume consisted of traditional work experience, as well as leadership volunteer work and relevant coursework to display that you know how to execute day-to-day tasks that entry level role requires.

Don’t be caught in the web brandishing excellent GPAs from fantastic institutions on your resume, without showcasing on the resume that as a graduate you know how to do some of the things listed in the job description.

The entire purpose of coursework in school is to prepare you for your dream role, so convey that you know how to get the job done by highlighting pertinent and applicable projects and assignments, as well as internship work.

3. Work for free and volunteer

One major mistake fresh graduates make is to start seeking a job that pays six digits and comes with an official car, while those jobs actually exist they are very scarce. What you can do while you search for that big job is to volunteer.

There are perks in doing free work ― people will see how good you are, how smart you are, and what you bring to the table, which can lead to a paid job.

Not everything is about financial gain right away, but on the contrary, after you have worked hard, proved yourself and put time in, you deserve to get paid.

4.  Be a content creator and never stop branding yourself

Continuously build your personal brand by creating a go-to place where anyone can see your work and learn your worth. Nowadays people want to hire content creators, so when someone searches you, what do they find? People should be able to find their personal talents and interests online.

You do this by creating content on subjects that interest you and are valid to your industry. When people search for you, which they definitely will, they are able to get a vision of your voice on your industry.

What you present online is an absolute reflection of yourself, it is a brand imprint.

5. Mentors and alumni should be your BFF

Check-in often with mentors and those of influence who are in your network to showcase your advancements and new work (branding).

Obtain a list of alumni and mentors who worked in your industry, and make sure they all know who you are and you have the interest to enter their industries. Contact them via email and of course on social media.

Don’t let people forget about you, but also don’t be a stalker, don’t embarrass them with messages.

6. Pitch yourself, request informational interviews and commit yourself to build beneficial relationships

Be social, go out, meet people, introduce yourself, let people know what you do or aspire to do, and point them to your content. Never be afraid to let the desires of your heart be known ― it’s actually imperative for growth and longevity.