So, you’ve got that shiny new degree from university or college, and now you face the task of getting that first job that will lead to the career that you always wanted; however, there are a few things you should know before you head off on that career path…

These days, finding a full-time job is rather difficult. You’re more likely to get part-time or freelance contractor opportunities than full-time. (If you do manage to find full-time work, consider yourself incredibly lucky.) Some sectors are more difficult to get a foot into the door than others. As a result, that belief that you are “guaranteed” a job within a year of graduation, isn’t entirely true. It requires some luck, some negotiation, and a lot of reality checks. You may be required to move away from home, or get a second part-time job to in order to make rent.  In addition, you may have to consider returning back to school in order to make yourself ‘more’ employable.

Pay ranges do not often meet the level that new graduates might expect. Most likely, you will not make as much as you expect because you are now entry-level, a freshman within the company; and for that reason, you will not be paid as much. The more experience you gain, the more amount (at least in theory, this can change due to changing jobs). Benefits may be low, and health insurance probably non-existent. It depends on the company: bigger companies tend to offer better benefits than smaller ones.  So, if you do have a job offer, and are looking for job benefits, focus on what you can get from the job in terms of personal growth, instead of what you have heard or what you thought you would get after graduation. Are you getting the benefits you wanted? Are you on a path where you can learn from your experiences to move towards the career you want? (I say this because you may not find yourself in the career path you would prefer, but if there is some opportunity to use your skills or learn new ones, it can still be beneficial). You may also be able to acquire the skills that employers value by taking additional training or classes – this also works for your benefit as well through expanding your résumé.

Ignore the ideal picture of your first day of work and learn to accept what you can negotiate, and what you are more likely to earn as an entry-level position. I would strongly encourage you to keep believing in yourself and your abilities – there will be a job available for you that is a perfect fit for you and your career.