When it comes to landing your first job, being proactive can make all the difference. Whether you’re graduating high school or already in college, now is the time to start thinking about what kind of life you want and what kind of work will support that vision. Understanding work readiness and joining a talent development marketplace can help you build a plan that saves time, money and frustration.
The job market is competitive, and not all entry-level careers lead to the same outcomes. Before choosing a degree or jumping into job applications, it’s important to set income and lifestyle goals. Do you want to live independently in a high-cost city, support a family or travel frequently? Each goal ties directly into the type of work you’ll need to pursue and what kind of salary you should aim for.
By defining your goals now, you avoid heading down a career path that doesn’t support your financial future. Students often spend too much on education that doesn’t translate into high-paying entry-level jobs for college grads. Start from the end goal and work your way back.
Knowing the job you want also helps determine whether you need a four-year degree, a certificate, or something else entirely. That’s where a solid education plan comes in. You might not need a traditional route at all, especially if your goal job values skills over credentials.
Programs that emphasize work readiness help you identify the necessary education and eliminate time spent on courses that won’t matter for your future role. For students asking how to get your first job while minimizing debt, getting smart about education is a must.
Many young adults struggle to navigate the corporate world because they’ve never seen it up close. A Work Readiness course can introduce you to the basics—department structures, team roles, expectations and workflows—so you’re not starting from scratch. This early understanding helps you match your interests and strengths to real-world opportunities.
If you’re looking for jobs for high school graduates or jobs for recent college grads, knowing how the workplace operates gives you an edge. You’ll be able to ask better questions in interviews, understand job descriptions more clearly and find a workplace that aligns with your goals.
At pepelwerk, we help young adults enter the talent development marketplace with confidence. Our career tools are built for people just starting out, including coaching, learning plans and work readiness based on your goals, not just your resume.
Here’s how to get started: