Has the world gone crazy?

Can you imagine what it feels like to study ten thousand hours of one subject? Well if you, my dear friend, have a university degree, you should be aware of the feeling. Ten thousand hours are equal to four years - or one hundred and twenty points - studying in college or university. And that is an average. If you are a nerd, you might count much more.

Now, let’s talk about what all students are brainwashed when getting into college: a good graduate job with a nice salary and maybe a picture-perfect view from the office window. In our deepest dreams, the job also offers benefits such as a free gym membership, sauna, or at least Friday drinks. Unfortunately, this in many cases stays only a dream. The reality of this cruel world is different.

How would you react to a job advertisement stating that you will get (instead of sauna) free water as your benefit? This is not a joke. This is a real marketing internship job ad I found online a couple of days ago. I know, right? I had to read it twice to make sure I was not crazy. On top of that, while enjoying your luxurious glass of water, your pockets will get filled with a 350-euro monthly salary. Sounds like a dream come true, doesn’t it?

Finding a job, in marketing or communications can be quite a hustle. I was thrown into this fascinating experience while looking for a MARCOM internship in the Netherlands. Even though the job market is exploding, many companies seek candidates who already have experience in the field (even for interns). Knowing marketing theories is definitely not enough to be noted in the crowd. The right candidate must have experience in executing marketing strategies, be tech-savvy, and master social media platforms. Besides, being proficient in Excel, Power BI, and graphic design programs like Adobe Suite could be a starting point when thinking of getting a job.

Despite my sarcasm, there is a flash of hope for you and me out there. First of all, understanding that businesses exploit their power when looking for interns is a first step toward changing the game. Sometimes, companies create high-demanding job ads to showcase their position in the market. Basic psychology says that the more the human mind perceives something as high-class, the more it tends to seek it. Therefore, understanding that the ad with a hundred “must haves” does not mean you are not good enough for the position. In some cases, the candidate does not even exist and companies choose the closest match to the description.

Secondly, carefully picking your future workplace can play a massive role in success. Instead of thinking about the position, it is better to think of the industry or a specific company of interest. For instance, having a particular company in mind and checking its careers page played a crucial role for me when getting my first internship in communications. If a desired job is not on their website yet, maybe it is a good idea to send an email alongside your portfolio. Companies always value people who can step forward!

The last and most important, be good enough for yourself. If those job ads make you feel disappointed or mediocre, remember that no one is perfect. My advice, learn and practice for yourself, not for a corporate job. Building up your skills also builds your self-confidence. Taking one step at a time (or learning one thing at a time) will make you empowered to apply to even the craziest job ads.

And remember, your ten thousand hours count too. You were strong enough to get your university degree. You are strong enough to get that job.