30/09/2025
Things I Wish I Knew as a Fresh Grad
When I was a fresh grad, I had no idea what to do. We were trained for job interviews, but when it came to the actual process of job hunting, I was lost.
Hereโs what I wish I knew before my first job:
1. Certificate of First-Time Jobseekers
When applying for jobs on platforms like Kalibrr, LinkedIn, or Jobstreet, a lot of fresh grads donโt realize thereโs a law that can save them money.
The First Time Jobseekers Assistance Act (RA 11261) lets you request a Certificate of First-Time Jobseekers from your barangay.
With this certificate, you can process important requirements for free:
๐ค SSS
๐ค Pag-IBIG
๐ค PhilHealth
๐ค NBI clearance
๐ค Police/barangay clearance
Pro tip: Bring valid IDs, your barangay certificate, and a filled-out form. This saves you hundreds of pesos in fees while completing your job requirements.
2. If you receive a job offer, you donโt need to say yes immediately.
Itโs okay to ask, โCan I confirm within a week?โ This shows youโre thoughtful, not hesitant.
Personally, I like to set a clear timeline for my decision-making process. Iโll block off time in my planner (I use the one from Limelight) to weigh the pros and cons before giving my final answer. It keeps me organized and confident in my choice too.
3. Track Your Job Applications
Donโt just send resumes and forget. Create a simple tracker so you know which companies youโve applied to, what stage youโre in, and when to follow up.
Use tools like Notion, Google Sheets, or even project apps like Trello to keep your job hunt organized. It makes you look and feel more in control.
These are the things nobody taught me in school, but they make a huge difference in surviving your first job hunt.
If you want to learn more, you can join our community channel: Becoming You ๐ค
I also uploaded my own resume plus a FREE ATS-friendly resume template you can use to make your applications stand out.
Inside our community, we have ongoing conversations about careers, personal development, and everything in between. Itโs a safe space to find your voice, not just in public speaking but in all areas of life. ๐ค