IN A BUSY city such as Hong Kong, people are constantly under pressure, trying to balance work commitments with a hectic social life and other personal obligations.
Final year students also face pressure, but of a different kind - impending examinations and the need to find a job after they graduate.
For their job search, one of the essential tools is the resume. That is the document which opens doors, attracts the attention of employers and, most important of all, secures interviews. Therefore, it requires careful consideration and long-term planning.
When preparing to enter the job market, students should put themselves in the shoes of a recruitment agency or prospective employer and take a critical look at what their resume has to offer. Does it stand out from hundreds of others? Does it show you have the drive and potential to offer more than the other graduates competing for the same position?
Understandably, many students make it a priority to get consistently good grades. They focus on getting straight As and find little time for extracurricular activities. They forget that employers tend to look beyond academic results. When hiring, companies do not want bookworms, but candidates with diverse achievements and well-rounded personalities. They want to see evidence of skills in leadership, teamwork and communication - vital for success in the workplace.
One of the best ways of gaining extracurricular experience is by getting involved in volunteer work. It demonstrates a genuine interest in giving something back to the community and says a lot about one's character. It is also a way of gaining new skills, which are often directly transferable to other work environments.