However, you do not have to be a statistic, says Job Mail Product and Marketing manager, Angelique Robbertse. "The worst thing you can do after graduation is nothing," says Robbertse. "Even if you aren't sure which career path to take, use your time to experiment and find out more about the different careers that are out there.
"If you have nothing to put in your CV, make sure that you include a cover letter demonstrating the passion you have for the field that you are hoping to enter. Tell the employer why you chose the subjects you chose and why you are drawn to their company. Don't just give them the cookie cutter phrases, such as 'I work hard', or 'I am a quick learner'. Give them examples of things that you have done to demonstrate your work ethic."
"Build a portfolio for yourself, particularly if you want to enter a field where visual literacy is important. Put sketches and photos of your handiwork on Instagram and Pinterest. If you have a hobby, put that hobby on display - whether it's woodwork, baking cupcakes or completing mosaics. It all shows a willingness to follow through and complete projects, as well as your creativity and initiative," Robbertse advises.
"All employers and recruiters Google candidates these days," Robbertse says. "Start building your professional online profile today. Create a LinkedIn page and join discussions in forums for career paths that you are interested in. Create your own blog to showcase your writing skills or projects that you are working on. Network on Facebook and Twitter - tell people that you are looking for work. It could be your ticket into the field you love. Make sure that you are easily found online."
"Don't be afraid to take on work that you won't be paid for," says Robbertse. "Sign on for unpaid internships and temporary jobs. If you can't find one, volunteer. Offer free classes or tutoring to underprivileged people within your community, even if you are only teaching basic computer skills to others. Try your hand at freelancing. Work at an animal shelter or start a community project. But always, always keep busy. References, even from a volunteer-based job, go a long way when applying for a paid position."
"Your real learning only begins when you walk off the stage with your diploma in your hand. Practical experience is the best teacher. I've spoken to many people who studied to become lawyers or doctors because the job looked glamorous on television - and then ended up unhappy and switching careers once they started working. Before entering any field of business, try to gain as much exposure as you can to that field. Speak to professionals in the fields that you are interested in, even if you only do so on LinkedIn, and educate yourself by reading up on the different industries. The few short years after matric or university may be the only time in your adult life that you'll have the freedom to experiment and explore what you really want to do as a career - make the most of it," she cnocludes.
