Although in-person university courses are still popular, online learning has recently taken off. As a result, online qualifications are an attractive choice for many people looking to gain the qualifications they need for their chosen career. Considering the convenience, flexibility, and reduced costs this way of studying brings, it is easy to see why.
The online nursing program for nonnurses at Wilkes University is a classic example. This online course not only takes just 12 months to finish but leaves students fully prepared for a career in nursing – even if they were not nurses to start with!
Of course, gaining the qualifications you need via online study is only half the battle; you will still need to find ways to uncover job opportunities after graduating. What are the best ways to do this?
Network online
One of the most effective methods is networking online, particularly by using social media platforms to discover new opportunities and meet influential people in your chosen career.
LinkedIn is perhaps the best social media platform because it is geared toward online professional networking. It is also free and easy to use. If you remember to stick to common LinkedIn etiquette techniques when using it, you will be fine. Another good way to network online is by setting up your professional website and using that to help people from your chosen sector discover you.
Ask family and friends.
In addition to online networking, using your offline, personal network of family and friends makes sense. Even if you do not know anyone who works in your chosen industry, one of your family members or friends might know someone else who does.
This can make it easier to find out about companies looking for new workers or firms looking to take people on as interns. Asking around your network is free, quick, and hassle-free, so this is a great way to put the feelers out.
Target your preferred companies.
When finding a job post-graduation, targeting preferred companies is still a viable method for those who studied online. Although trekking around the companies you wish to work for and handing out paper resumés in person might be a little old-school, finding preferred businesses in your chosen career online and emailing them about any possible vacancies is fine. If you remember to attach your resumé to show them your credentials, this can be a great way to find work after graduating.
Putting the feelers out post-study
It is only natural to think about ways to get a foot in the door of your chosen career once you have completed your online course of study. With your new qualifications to help you on your way, putting the feelers out in your industry is an effective first step.
