Got your diploma in hand? Congratulations! You've worked hard, and now the world is at your feet. But... what now? Are you going to start looking for your first job right away? Continue studying for a while longer? Or maybe take a gap year first?
We'll help you get started with a clear overview of the options available to recent graduates in Belgium. That way, you can choose what suits you best.
1. Continue studying: postgraduate or master's degree
Not done studying? Then consider a postgraduate or master's degree. Additional studies are not necessarily required to give you a good chance on the job market, but can be helpfull. In any case, make sure you are well informed and consider whether it is financially feasible.
During your studies, you can also prepare for the job market by doing relevant internships or student jobs.. You will gain valuable experience in a sector that interests you and receive a remuneration. And an internship can lead to a permanent job.
2. Student job: experience and pay
The best student jobs for starters.
Not ready to work full-time? Then a student job is an ideal intermediate step. You will learn new skills, expand your network, and earn your first paycheck.
3. Do an internship for extra experience
An internship is the perfect way to gain practical experience and build a network. Many internships lead to a first permanent job.
Tip: be ambitious when looking for an internship. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
4. Take a gap year (and learn outside the classroom)
Want to take a breather before you start working? A gap year—for example, abroad—offers room for personal growth and valuable experience.
Work experience or volunteer work abroad develops your independence, adaptability, and cultural awareness. It also looks great on your resume.
Tip: make sure to mention this gap year in your cover letter or during a job interview.
5. Update your resume and start applying for jobs
Your first step? Make sure you have a strong resume. Even if you don't have much work experience yet, you can show what you've got: your education, student jobs, volunteer work, or relevant skills. You can find inspiration and tips for a good resume here.
Then visit job sites or work with a recruitment agency such as Robert Half. Every day, we help recent graduates find their first job at top companies.
When searching, also consider:
Full-time or part-time work
Many people start working full-time right away. You gain a lot of experience and learn useful skills on the job.
If you are still considering continuing your studies, a part-time job is an option. You gain work experience while adding extra skills to your resume or honing existing skills. You may also want to start your own business as a side job alongside your part-time job. A part-time job gives you that flexibility.
Temporary or permanent contract
Not sure yet what position you want to start and grow in? Then temporary assignments are an excellent option. You will gain experience in various positions, each with their own responsibilities. And that in different sectors that interest you.
The corporate culture
Be sure to take the corporate culture into account when applying for a job. It's normal to want to earn a good living, but a good fit with your future colleagues and way of working is just as important.
Choose what suits you
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Whether you choose to work, study, travel, or start a business, there is no right or wrong choice. The important thing is to keep moving forward and learn from every experience.
Would you like help finding your first job? Contact Robert Half—we are happy to guide you on your way to a strong start to your career.
