From finding and landing your dream job to learning how to make the most of your new paycheck, Dupaco is here to help you succeed.
Job Hunting
Finding your dream job is tough. Whether you’re a new grad or considering a career change, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when tasked with selecting your next gig.
Are there jobs that you would enjoy going to work every day? Are you qualified? Is there room for advancement? Search for jobs in the area where you would like to live, in the field you have studied. If you aren’t having any luck, make sure to keep checking. Setting a schedule for yourself as you job search will help you to actively stay on the job search radar.
Many companies use social networks like LinkedIn and Facebook to advertise new job openings. If there is a specific company you would like to work for some day, it never hurts to reach out and be proactive in your job search to see if they have a current opening or one that may be opening in the future.
Networking and having your name heard is one of the most effective ways to land a successful job! Also, keep in mind that your dream job may be out there, someday, but not now. Search for jobs that may lead you to where you want to be. Many companies encourage internal transferring of departments and roles and if you’ve made connections and proven yourself in the workplace, you may get that dream job down the road!
Document your achievements, involvement and experiences in a professional, presentable way. Make both your resume and cover letter relevant and attention-grabbing. You are more than likely competing with many other recent graduates and experienced professionals so it’s important to have your best foot forward. Take some time to brainstorm and gather your information and present it in a clean, concise, professional manner.
Tips for Job Interviews
Getting a job interview is a step in the right direction! Make sure all your hard work up to this point pays off by preparing yourself to succeed during the interview.
Prepare yourself by looking at the company’s website and understand what the company does, some history and the company’s mission. Think of ways your experiences align with the goals of the company and the position you are interviewing for.
You can also search their social media to better understand the culture of the company and be in-the-know of current events happening within the company. It’s also a good idea to think through some talking points and answers to questions you may be asked to mentally prepare yourself.
Relax and be yourself. Listen carefully during the interview and be authentic with your answers.
Considering a Job Offer
When you get your first job offer, it’s easy to get swept up in the moment. Before you say “yes,” here are a few factors you should consider.
Since you’re going to be spending a lot of time at this place, you want to make sure the company is the right fit for you. Get a better feel for the environment by asking questions like these: What kind of schedule will I have? What is the employee turnover? What opportunities will I have for growth at this company? Why is this position open?
Find out whether the employer offers a retirement plan. And ask the follow-up questions: What type of plan is it? When can I contribute? Is there a company match? What is vested, and how long before I am vested? Even if you’re just entering the workforce and think retirement is a long way off, it’s important to start saving as soon as possible.
Does the company offer health insurance? How much are the premiums, and what does the insurance cover? Private insurance can be very expensive. And if the employer offers an inexpensive policy, it might not cover much in the way of an unexpected serious illness.
Does the company give you access to life or disability insurance? If you become injured or sick for an extended period, having disability insurance can take the pressure off of paying your bills when you aren’t receiving a paycheck.
Find out whether the employer offers wellness benefits, which might include health-risk assessments and discounts on health insurance premiums for wellness participants. Wellness benefits, personal time off and culture-related benefits are ways a company can demonstrate that it cares for its employees.
Starting Your New Job
Congratulations on landing the job! Now it’s time to pave a smooth road to your financial future with smart money moves to make sure you don’t spend more than you are making. Getting into good habits now will make it easier when you’re ready to set goals like buying a home or starting a family.
Following a budget is essential, especially if you have student loans or credit card debt. You want to make sure you are paying your bills on time and working on paying down your debt. The sooner you pay down your debt, the faster you can save for your future. Learn more about budgeting and saving.
Another important factor in your finances is your credit. Your credit can affect so many things coming up in your life, like your ability to get a loan. Check your credit score regularly. Learn more about credit and credit scores.
Make savings a priority in your budget and pay yourself first. It’s a good idea to set up three different types of savings; an emergency fund, a large-purchase fund and retirement. Though it seems far away, now is the best time to start saving for retirement. Learn more about retirement planning.
It’s also important to look into things like life insurance. Buying now while you are young and healthy will save you money down the road. Learn more about insurance.
Start thinking about your goals. Do you want to own a house in the near future? How much will that down payment cost? When do you plan to buy your next vehicle? Where do you see yourself in five, 10, even 15 years? It’s important to keep these realistic and work hard to establish sustainable money habits that will move you in the right direction.
Thinking about starting a business?
Want to bring your passion project to life? Be your own boss? Starting—and running—a business is a labor of love. But you don’t have to do it alone. Our startup launch guide can help you along the way!
Career Learning Center
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to find your dream job. Check out our latest blog articles to help you find a career that’s right for you.
- Interview Tips
Be prepared for your interview with these tips. - Budget Worksheet
Track all your spending at a glance.
