Do you know what are the main challenges for recent college graduates? Do you know that a degree is not enough to start your job application? In Portugal and many European countries, this period is the ultimate time to make statistics for employment supply and demand. For recent graduates, apprentices, and professional wannabes, it is important to learn about the possible difficulties  that graduates face in Portugal. Here are 10 of them to make you more aware.

Graduation in Portugal:

Every year an important generation of graduates is entering the job market. In 2022, the number of graduates include:

• Students of public schools and universities
• Students of private schools and universities
• Self-learners of online courses
• Learners in foreign mission schools
• International students

Regarding the growing number of graduates, it is essential to consider the recruitment tips that become more selective and competitive day after day. The job market is always linked to the country's economy. If your destination is economically growing, several job offers appear. But, in times of crisis, opportunities decrease. Some recent graduates are doubtful about potential career choices. Worse than a failed job search strategy, is the situation of those who do not invest in their degrees or in their continuous skills development. Fratres will show you the  10 difficulties faced by graduates in Portugal. For a less tortuous path in getting your first entry-level job, sign up to Fratres.

1.Finding Internships:

For a graduate, it is essential to get an internship opportunity before your first job. Internships are counted as part of your degree finalizing project or practical experience. There are many advantages related to internships. Adding to the practical skills that you will have, internships enable you to develop your professional network and get visibility for better professional concerns. Here is how  Portugal offers companies and students a perfect solution for their recruitment / internship needs.  

2. Not Joining any Organization/ Academic Consulate, Association:

Many graduates neglect the importance of joining a student organization, association or consulate. These projects teach the students additional skills required in personal and professional development. They also offer extracurricular activities, periodic meetings for projects and certificates for active students.

3. Not Building a Network

Building a professional network is essential for any career. But when you just rely on your first entry-level job to establish your network, the process will not be that effective. In Portugal, a network is not only linked with your first job. It should be built through volunteering experiences, participation in professional seminars and events. That is, it's not enough to go out asking for connections with anyone to network on social media. This will only bring numbers to your profile, which doesn't always mean you are very professional. Take a look at; 15 things about Apprenticeships

4. Not Being relevant on LinkedIn:

LinkedIn is one of the best tips for beginners networking. For valuable network contacts, the professionals that you follow or plan to contact should update the recent job offers. They should also make their profiles accessible for advice and guidelines. So, how to make your connection relevant to other professionals? The answer lies in your current relationships, with college colleagues or even your professors. During your studies, you should show potential skills of research, sharing knowledge, and analysis. By participating in these important moments, you will demonstrate your value , which will inspire your network to refer you to other professionals.

5. Getting a Job without a Prior Experience:

This is one of the main difficulties that many graduates face. In the public and  the private sector, experience is always in-demand for well paid opportunities. Conquering employment while you are still fresh out of college is not always a successful step. Another difficulty for recent graduates is to get a job that is aligned with their degree and areas of studies.

6.Not Benefiting from Employment Programs:

In Portugal, there are many employment programs for recent graduates. Your mission here is to get updated. Some companies participating in these programs are looking for entry-level applicants. Graduated job seekers or those who are graduating from quality colleges will benefit from a training aimed at the job market. APEA, which has an exclusive partnership with Pitágoras, will bring you job opportunities in reliable companies, with great chances of learning and growth for internships or permanent jobs. This benefit applies to students of any type of education.

7. CV and cover letter mistakes:

A successful job search requires quality application documents.  Employers can compare and elaborate the difference between candidates through the information mentioned in a CV and a cover letter. Entry-level applicants have to follow the standards required in writing the application documents instead of copying them from the internet.

8. The Job Interview:

Meeting recruiters for the first time to discuss a job application is a challenging step. It is always difficult for applicants . The challenges are always depending on the chosen job. Some positions require problem-solving skills. Others require project-management skills. The main mission is to demonstrate the ability to meet the requirements and add up to the field. Here are 5 Advices That You Must Listen Before Studying Interviews.

9. Choosing your First Job:

Deciding a career is always linked to your job search strategies. As a new graduate, you will prioritize jobs in your field relying on your qualifications. You can also submit your application to ensure the trial. Try to look for employment that includes a probation period for fresh graduates.

10. Being discouraged by Rejections:

When you are a recent graduate, you will have to deal with your emotions, fears and defeats. It is possible for you not to get selected for the job. Try to deal with the situation as a way to motivate yourself for the next candidacy. It is necessary to think that entry-level jobs are also selective and require patience and perseverance.

These were the top 10 difficulties faced by fresh graduates in Portugal. The job market always requires new talents that every professional must develop to continue pursuing their goals.