What are the best ways for economics graduates to find a job?

2 Update your resume and portfolio

Your resume is your first impression to potential employers, so you need to make it clear, concise, and relevant. Highlight your education, work experience, skills, and achievements that demonstrate your value as an economics graduate. Use keywords and phrases that relate to the job description and the sector you are applying to. For example, if you are applying for a research position, you might mention the papers you have written or co-authored, the journals you have published in, or the conferences you have presented at. If you are applying for a consulting position, you might emphasize the projects you have worked on, the clients you have served, or the recommendations you have made. In addition to your resume, you might also need to create a portfolio that showcases your work samples, such as reports, presentations, graphs, or models. This can help you demonstrate your skills and knowledge in action and impress the hiring managers.

3 Network and connect

Networking is a key strategy for finding a job in any field, but especially in economics, where many opportunities are not advertised publicly. Networking can help you learn more about the industry trends, the company culture, the job expectations, and the hiring process. It can also help you build relationships with people who can refer you, recommend you, or mentor you. You can network and connect with other economics professionals in various ways, such as attending events, joining online communities, reaching out to alumni, or asking for informational interviews. When you network, be respectful, curious, and genuine. Show interest in the other person's work and experience, ask relevant and insightful questions, and offer value in return. Follow up with a thank-you note and keep in touch until you find a suitable opportunity.

4 Prepare for interviews

Once you get invited for an interview, you need to prepare well to ace it. Interviews for economics jobs can vary in format and content, depending on the role and the employer. Some interviews might be more technical and require you to solve problems, analyze data, or explain concepts. Some interviews might be more behavioral and require you to share examples of your past performance, achievements, or challenges. Some interviews might be more case-based and require you to work on a hypothetical scenario, propose a solution, or present your findings. To prepare for interviews, you need to research the company, the industry, and the job. You also need to review your resume, portfolio, and skills. You need to practice your answers, your communication, and your presentation. You need to anticipate the questions, the challenges, and the feedback. You need to dress professionally, arrive on time, and be confident.

5 Seek feedback and improve

Finding a job as an economics graduate can be a long and challenging process. You might face rejections, setbacks, or frustrations along the way. However, you should not give up or lose hope. Instead, you should seek feedback and improve your skills, your resume, your portfolio, and your interview techniques. Feedback can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, learn from your mistakes, and improve your performance. You can seek feedback from various sources, such as mentors, peers, recruiters, or online platforms. You can also seek feedback from yourself, by reflecting on your actions, outcomes, and feelings. By seeking feedback and improving, you can increase your chances of finding a job that matches your qualifications, interests, and aspirations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?