You’ve turned your tassel, walked across the stage, received your diploma, and you are now a college graduate! The last 4-5 years have brought you treasured friends, irreplaceable memories, and an education that will be with you for the rest of your life.
As the post-college excitement propels you toward the next stage of life, you will soon come to realize that getting a job is not as easy as you may have expected. You might not get the job you were hoping for. Or an interview with that firm, church, or company you had worked so hard to connect with. Lies will penetrate your mind telling you that you will never get your “dream job.” Continual discouragement can hurt your motivation. But let me encourage you to continue to trust God after graduation. Here are 3 things that I believe will guide you through your post-college job search:
Surrender & Trust God
If you are currently in a job search, you probably are tired of hearing “trust the Lord.” I know I was. Personally, I felt immense pressure to find a job on my own. I mean, I was a college graduate for goodness sake. I should be proving my independence and showing the world that “I got this!” I was far more vulnerable to the distractions of the world and the lies of the devil when I relied on my own strength.
The truth of the matter is that we cannot do it alone. God tells us countless times to trust in Him. Why? When we trust in God, we rid ourselves of the burden of expectation and follow a perfect Guide into a future already prepared for us.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
Your First Job Outside of College Does Not Dictate the Trajectory of Your Career
As college grads, we walk into the workplace with high hopes and even higher expectations. But the reality of the situation is that we are the lowest on the totem pole. Our expertise is limited, our experience is slim to none, and our work ethic is still in the works. So, I am just going to say it straight: your first job will not be your dream job.
But that is OKAY!
Your first job is a blessing. Whether a barista or an intern at an accounting firm, the job is an opportunity to learn who you are, sharpen your skills, and define your passions. Your first job is a stepping stone to your entire future. So, as you look for jobs, don’t put the pressure to find the perfect fit. Find a job, get experience in any shape or form, and work hard. What matters is not the type of job that you have, but that you can work hard no matter what position you hold.
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:17
Focus on Your Community, Then Your Career
During college, you are surrounded by students all around the same age in the same walk of life. Your life is filled with 24/7 friendships. But after college, you are on the 8:00-5:00 grind with the rest of the world. One of the most important things to work on after college is developing a community.
A diverse and strong community equals a strong and diverse network. The people you will become friends with will be in different stages of life, they will work in different places, and they will know different people. Not only does this allow you to turn to them for support in the hard times of finding a job, but they are a valuable resource.
Get involved in a Church, in a small group, or a local sports group. Make every effort to reach out to those around you. As stated in the first point…we are not meant to do this alone- we are to lean on God and our community.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing but encouraging one another”
Hebrews 10:24-25
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions Christian job seekers might ask:
1. How can I discover my calling after graduation?
After graduation, discerning your calling may feel uncertain. Engage in prayer and self-reflection, explore your passions, and consider seeking mentorship from trusted spiritual advisors or career coaches who can help identify how your skills align with God’s purpose.
2. How do I maintain spiritual growth while job searching?
Stay rooted in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship. Use this transition period to deepen your relationship with God and focus on building resilience through faith.
3. What should I do if my plans don’t work out as expected?
It’s essential to remain flexible. Life rarely goes exactly as planned. Trust that God’s timing is perfect, and be open to new opportunities that might not align with your initial expectations but could lead to personal and professional growth.
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