Taking risks

The biggest hurdle facing graduates is standing out from the crowd. The graduate market is competitive and over-saturated with newly-graduated hopefuls looking to begin their career. So what can you do to stand out from the crowd and prove that you're the right candidate for the job?

The first step is to not be afraid to take risks and be bold in your approach. You need to make sure you have a lock on your personal brand, a goal, and an idea of how to get there.

Put in Practice

What can you do to stand out?

• Spend time building up your LinkedIn profile.
• Start up an industry-specific blog, either on your own or with friends.
• Overhaul your Twitter with a professional aim.
• Take advantage of social media which applies to your field - for example, a graduate hoping to work in fashion could start up related accounts on Pinterest, Polyvore, or Instagram.
• Network with people online and through social media.
• Upload a video CV to YouTube and include the link in your applications.
• Offer your services for free to a local organisation to gain experience.
• Consider pitching a company who may not be actively recruiting - if you have a great idea, it may help you get your foot in the door.

The internet is a great resource for building up a professional persona, and taking the time to do this can really make you stand out from other graduates. You can list your activites on your CV, or detail their relevance on your covering letter.

These are the things that will show employers why you are the person to take their company forward. You've got to throw yourself into the deep end sometimes in order to stand out, get your graduate job, and get your career started.

Risks are not limited to the application process. Take a chance on a short-term contract, or a maternity cover placement. These positions may not be permanent, but they could potentially open doors you've never even considered.

If you have a dream job, don't let the idea fade. Take great strides to get there. It may not be a straight path, but you've got to give it a shot or you'll regret not trying.