Who is a Fresher?

Have you ever heard the term “Fresher?” This term has multiple meanings. The Urban Dictionary states a Fresher is a “British word for a first-year student at university.” The adjective can also mean an employee recently promoted to a new position. So how does this term impact job seekers? Let’s look at this characterization and its impact on the workforce.

Terminology

In 2005, the Urban Dictionary added Fresher to their database. The term is new, but a Fresher individual is not new. Job seekers without job experience attempt to join the workforce. It is a grueling process to break through the experience barrier. The past few decades birthed terminology to describe different workplace behaviors, and this is another one on the list. Other trending terms are:

• Quiet quitting

• Quiet firing

• Hybrid working

• Great Resignation

• Asynchronous working

• 100:80:100 model

• Great Reshuffle

For a deeper dive into the definitions of these terms, Worklife does a great job explaining the new coinages in the job market lingo.

Navigating being a Fresher

This connotation is not necessarily negative. On the contrary, there are several positive qualities to being a Fresher. Candidates can convey these attributes during interviews or in cover letters. Here are some examples and a possible maneuver to overcome any negative comments:

• High School and College Students: Many of you reading this may be in high school or college and never had time to work a regular job. Your studies are paramount during these formidable years. However, if you engage in school or club activities, the experience provides you with appropriate skills on a résumé. In addition, if you volunteer (almost all students volunteer to graduate), the interactions transfer well as work experience.

• Moms or Dads Returning to the workforce: If you were lucky enough to be home to spend time with your little people, congratulations. You achieved what many could not afford to do. How does this help? Indeed, you have transferrable project management skills and time management skills, or if this was gap time, you could build upon old work experience to show value. Do not underestimate your work as a parent. If an employer does not see this value, you probably should not work for them.

• Veterans or Transitioning Military: This may sound like someone had a job, but you would be shocked to see how many of our military men and women struggle to find work after their tours. It is a shame that the training, management, and on-the-job skills are not accepted in the mainstream workplace. Civilian hiring managers do not understand the determination, innovation, and dedication they offer in new positions. Veterans should prominently place their training skills at the top of the list. If you use your GI Bill to get an education, list it. Let employers know what career choices you seek

• New Job Position: If newly promoted, congratulations! You earned the position because of your previous work experience, skills, and achievements. You may be new to the opportunity but have valuable work experience to support your new endeavor. Recognize these talents when presenting yourself in meetings or among colleagues. They are unfamiliar with your beginnings, and an elevator pitch can jump start the conversation.

Solutions

Depending on your career focus, there are many ways to get experience or locate jobs that will train you. It always helps to have some education under your belt. In many cases, you do not need a 4-year degree. You can sign up for free courses or complete a certificate program at a local college. These programs will show potential employers you are serious and can handle on-the-job training. Below are excellent resources:

• Internships: Check with your guidance or school career counselor for a list of affiliated businesses providing internships that train on the job.

• Networking: Place your profile on LinkedIn and list that you are actively seeking an internship or

• Entry-Level Jobs: If the job states they want 1-3 years’ experience, apply anyway. This wording is used as a tactic to prevent applicants from mindless submissions.

• Ask family and friends: You never know who recently heard about a job opening. The connection could put you at the top of the list.

• Military Partners: Large corporations like CGI, Leidos, and Northrup Grumman actively seek veterans knowing the value and skills earned during tours.

Preparation

It is essential to prepare when applying for jobs and interviewing. The scrutiny of automated systems that screen resumes and CVs and the tough questioning during an interview can cost you a chance at a job. Invest in yourself and hire a professional resume writer or career coach to polish your professional responses during an interview.

Unprepared candidates will spend countless hours applying for job opportunities they know are a great fit but cannot get past the application or screening process. Remember, hundreds of people compete for work, and you always want to be on top.