Don’t be passive – be proactive and think outside the square, says AUT employability and careers specialist Dianna Bluck.
Graduating into a slow job market can be disheartening when there are not many graduate jobs to apply for. The key is not to wait for the perfect job to appear.
“Don’t just apply for full-time work off job boards. Focus less on ‘What job should I look for?’ and more on ‘Where can I use my skills or build new ones while I wait for more opportunities to open up?’” says Dianna, who’s seen a few economic cycles come and go.
Yep, it is harder, but it can lead to great opportunities too.
Reach out and out
Take, for example, the success story an AUT international mechanical engineering graduate recently recounted to employability and careers specialist Munaal Abdali.
Struggling to find work, he decided to take advice and become more proactive. After all, he had nothing to lose. He made a list of companies doing work he was passionate about, shortlisted the ones he could physically walk into – and began visiting them.
“He introduced himself, handed over his CV, and asked if they could offer him an unpaid internship so he could gain New Zealand work experience to gain hands-on experience and better understand the differences between working in New Zealand and his home country,” explains Munaal.
One employer offered him a mechanical engineering internship on the spot. After he finished the allocated internship hours he was offered a paid part-time role
He is now on his way in his chosen career. Small steps can make all the difference.
Munaal encourages students to take heart from this example, be proactive and reach out.
“Research smaller companies that align with your interests. They are often more approachable but do your research and be clear about what you can offer and what you hope to gain in return.”
7 Tips on ways to think outside the square
Here are 7 practical tips from Dianna and Munaal.
1. Upskill
Take advantage of short courses, micro-credentials, and free LinkedIn Learning opportunities to sharpen your digital, technical or communication skills.
2. Gain experience (any kind!)
Find a part-time job, volunteer or ask for work experience with a business. Focus on developing transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving – skills that are valued in every job.
3. Start a personal project
Write a blog, design a website for a friend, sell something online, then document your learning on your LinkedIn profile. Projects show initiative, creativity and motivation – all qualities employers love.
4. Freelance, consult – join the gig economy
Take on small contracts or help someone with a project in your field. Even unpaid work can show your capability and build your portfolio.
Use platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to find short-term gigs in design, writing, admin, translation, tutoring or coding.
Join the gig economy, eg uber driving (great communication and time management skills).
5. Try temping
Temp roles help you get your foot in the door, build experience fast, and develop a reputation for reliability and good work. Employers often hire temps permanently once they see what you offer.
6. Network
Connect with people by attending events, using LinkedIn, or joining professional associations or student-aligned groups. Don’t just apply online.
7. Reach out
Contact companies directly, and sign up with recruitment agencies (if you’ve got previous work experience, YES?)
Final word - have your CV and cover letter ready
Have your CV and cover letter ready, recommends AUT employability and career specialist Emma Spires.
“Employers are posting job ads for very short windows, so it’s important to act fast.
“Always have an updated CV and cover letter ready and be flexible—not just about job titles, but also about work types.”
Remember
In a tough economy, your job is to stay current. Keep learning and say yes to opportunities that expand your skills. It’s not about landing the perfect job right away – it’s about showing resilience and continuing to develop skills that impress employers. You can do this!
Need help?
If you are not sure about what to include in a cover letter or how to improve your CV, make the most of AUT Employability and Career Services. Attend a workshop or make an appointment to see an employability and career specialist through Elab Online.
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