I always get the same question from every single student of mine that "How can I start my career in Pakistan" and It is always difficult for me to answer this simple question. Being an experienced accountant and teacher I have seen following common mistakes in every fresh graduate which I always recommend them to avoid.
"Not asking some one to be your mentor"
You need some one to guide you. In our culture we are very shy to ask some one to become our mentor. Is it so difficult to ask this question to some one you are inspired with? "I really admire the career path you are on, can you take me under your wings, so that I can excel in my career? Just go and ask and you will get.Remember! without a mentor you would not be able to get the doors of opportunities opened for your self.
"You do not Network"
We live in a world which is highly competitive. Networking is one of the best tools to keep your self up to date with the new opportunities. Many people are very shy to meet new people around, and they do not get out of the circle which they are in. Networking can give a boost to your career. I have seen some people, they have weekly target of meeting new people and they are always ahead.Remember! No one is going to come to your door step with an opportunity.
"Resume and Cover Letter"
Usually fresh graduates go to non professional people to write their cover letter and resume. These documents represent you before a prospected employer, and without a professionally written Resume you will waste this opportunity.Always ask some experienced person to write a resume for you.
"Never Stop Learning"
This is again a major mistake, Learning is a great tool to get an advantage over other people. Freshly qualified people usually stop learning once they qualify. By learning more you will become an irreplaceable person to your team. By the time you will become a better personality and a humble person.You stop learning, You stop growing
"Never Lose Hope"
This is again a common problem with most of the people. After applying for so many jobs and interviews you might get frustrated and you lose focus. Failure is part of the game and it gives you an opportunity to learn more.Best thing is to write down your mistakes and learn from them so that you can improve.
"Goal Setting"
Goal setting is very important in achieving something. If you want to achieve big then set your self bigger goals. Remove all the irrelevant activities and just focus on your goals. Motivation is very important, either it come from the people around you or you motivate your self to achieve your goals. Once you achieve your goal you will get self confidence and you will be ready to achieve the next one.
"Never Follow The Crowd"
Many people just follow the crowd and if you are one of them, there is a problem. Once you start following the crowd you will stop thinking and you would never be able to innovate. Ideas are the source of success and by following a crowd you will never give your self a chance to try a new idea.