Skill Gaps and Side Hustles - The Fast Track

You’ve probably noticed: every entry-level job description somehow wants two years of experience. It’s the great Catch-22 of postgraduate life. Employers want proof of skills, but no one wants to give you the first shot, so create the proof yourself.

Step 1: Continuous Learning Is Non-Negotiable - Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning let you stack up certifications in project management, data analysis, digital marketing, or coding for less than the cost of one college textbook. Adding relevant courses not only builds skills but also shows initiative and curiosity. Employers look for candidates who self-direct their growth. You will stand out among potential candidates.

Step 2: Build Real Projects - Don’t just list “Excel proficient” on your resume, demonstrate it. Create a budget analysis, do a case study, or help a non-profit to track donors. Portfolios, websites, GitHub, and blogs speak louder than bullet points. A tangible project can become the talking point that gets you hired.

Step 3: Side Hustle Strategically- If you’re working part-time, aim for something adjacent to your field. Aspiring marketer? Freelance social media for a local business. Interested in finance? Offer tutoring in Excel. Even gig work can teach time management, communication, and problem solving skills that every employer values.

The mindset here is simple: stop waiting for experience to come your way and manufacture it. When an employer asks if you have understanding and/or proficiency with a specific skill, your answer can be a plus. With the opportunity to expand on your capability, you can continue with a deeper explanation that underscores the real value of preparation and strategy.

So while some grads are waiting for doors to open, you’ll be busy building your own. Nothing impresses an employer more than someone active, learning, and creative in their approach to filling a role.

The job search is the ideal time to engage the support of a certified coach with experience in helping professionals achieve better, faster results. At KICKSTART Your Transition, we offer a broad range of services to fit your needs.