I hold a Master’s degree, but I can’t find a job

Dear Obaa Yaa,

I hold a Master’s degree from the Pentecost University, yet I am struggling to find a job.

For years, I believed pursing my Master’s degree could find me a better job but today, I have still not found one.

  I have been applying for jobs almost every week. I have sent my curriculum vitae to different companies, attended interviews and even applied for positions that are not directly related to what I studied.

But the response is almost always the same, we need someone with experience. How am I supposed to get experience when nobody is willing to give me the first opportunity?

The most interesting thing is that some of my classmates are already employed, while others are travelling or in booming businesses. I don’t want to give up, but the constant rejection is becoming frustrating.

Obaa Yaa, what should a young graduate do when qualifications are not enough and experience is required before anyone gives you a chance?

Elorm, Ho.

Dear Elorm

If you already have a Master’s degree and still unemployed, the focus should not be positioning yourself for other opportunities.

Stop sending same CV, each tailored to a specific type of job. Your CV should highlight what you can do, not only the degrees you have.

Don’t wait for the perfect job. Take internships, short term contracts, research projects or volunteer positions that can give experience and contact while you continue searching.

Most importantly, don’t interpret unemployment to mean that your Master’s degree is useless. The problem may be the way your qualification is being presented, regarding the type of jobs you are targeting.

Also, you can start up something small as a side business to enable you get enough income.

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