I vividly remember the feeling when I first left education, and it felt like the world had suddenly slowed down. While many of my peers were lining up exciting jobs or jetting off to travel abroad, I felt stuck, uncertain, and overwhelmed by the task of finding my first job. The weight of expectation, combined with the frustration of burnout during my final assessments (long before I realised I had ADHD), made me feel like I had somehow let myself down. I began to think I would never live up to my potential.
Fast forward a decade, and I now realise that my neurodivergence, my unique abilities and way of thinking, were not barriers, but the keys to unlocking opportunities. The very traits that made me feel different were the ones that helped me stand out. If I could go back and talk to my younger self, I would say, “Embrace what makes you, you.” In that spirit, I’d like to share some tips that helped me, which I wish I had known earlier.
1. Follow Your Interests, or Find New Ones!
It’s easy to feel lost without any clear path, but the best thing you can do is lean into your passions. Whether it’s a hobby you already have or something you’ve always wanted to try, seek out roles or spaces that reflect your interests. Love a particular sport? Join a local team or volunteer at events. Are you passionate about books? Join a reading group.
Engaging with like-minded people, especially those outside your usual circle, can open doors to unexpected opportunities. These new connections might lead you to internships, job opportunities, or simply broaden your network, giving you valuable exposure.
2. Emphasise Your Transferable Skills on Your CV
As a neurodivergent graduate, you might feel like your CV lacks the traditional experience employers are looking for. But here’s the secret: the skills you’ve developed in your personal life are just as important. Have you created a fan page, designed your own games, or built a blog? These experiences demonstrate creativity, problem-solving, and self-motivation – all highly valued by employers.
Don’t shy away from mentioning them on your CV. A quick search online can help you turn those hobbies into a list of transferable skills, from digital marketing to project management. Present your unique experiences confidently – they might just be what sets you apart from other candidates.
3. Be Bold
In a competitive job market, you need to stand out, and that sometimes means taking risks. Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential employers, even if a job posting has already closed. A heartfelt message explaining why you’re passionate about the company and how your skills align with their needs can leave a lasting impression.
If you want to go a step further, get creative with your application. For instance, you could put together a mini presentation featuring the company’s branding, or, if you’re into video editing, create a short promo video showcasing your skills. A tailored and creative approach shows initiative, and in a sea of similar applications, yours will definitely stand out.
4. Volunteer
I know working for free isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, but volunteering is an excellent way to gain experience and build up your CV. In fact, my first paid role came from my experience volunteering in a charity shop. Not only did it give me valuable customer service skills, but I also had the chance to use my creativity by dressing the shop windows.
When I landed an interview for my first office job, I was able to talk about my volunteering experiences, giving recent, tangible examples of my abilities. Employers are often impressed by candidates who show they’re willing to learn and gain experience, even through unpaid roles.
5. Make Them Remember You
In a competitive job market, it’s essential to be memorable. You want interviewers to recall something unique about you after you leave the room. It could be something as simple as wearing a pop of colour – nothing too bold, just enough to stand out from other candidates.
Your uniqueness as a neurodivergent individual is already a strength, so lean into it. Be yourself in interviews, and let your personality shine through. Employers are looking for people who are authentic and passionate, not just another cookie-cutter applicant.
6. Never Stop Learning
We live in a world where information is more accessible than ever. Use it to your advantage. Keep learning, whether it’s through online courses, books, or podcasts. Developing new skills not only gives you more to talk about in interviews but shows employers that you’re proactive and committed to personal growth.
Continuously learning gives you a competitive edge. When it comes down to you and another graduate with similar qualifications, your passion for self-development could be what tips the scales in your favour. It shows that you’re prepared to adapt and grow, which is a valuable trait in any job.
Final Words
As a neurodivergent graduate, you may feel pressure to fit in, to be like everyone else. But the truth is, your differences are your strengths. Your unique way of thinking, your interests, and your approach to challenges are exactly what will set you apart in a competitive job market.
Remember, it’s not about blending in – it’s about standing out. At Enna, we understand the value of neurodivergent thinking, and we’re here to help you shine, from crafting your application to acing that interview. Take these tips, embrace your individuality, and show the world all the reasons why being different makes you great.
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Hi we’re Enna – Specialist training and recuitment company supporting Neurodivergent people in the workplace. Explore our our services and resources on our website, or reach out to us at hello@enna.org if you have questions about our services.