Graduating with a 2: 2 can be a bit of a kick in the teeth, especially if you are celebrating their results. It's easy to slip into, frustration, and anxiety that your dream career will be forever out of reach. True, many employers specify a 2: 1 minimum grade requirement. And yes, the job market is fiercely competitive. But no, you're not going to be alive 9-5 hours in an industry you hate. Realistically, your grades are just one of the many factors that employers take into account when considering your application, and thousands of graduates go far with a 2: 2 or less. Here is what you should do if you graduate with:

1. Be prepared to explain yourself

Prospective employers who are happy to know what you think and what you want to do. They're not just for you, just make sure that you'll learn from your mistakes and that your future will be a high standard. If there were mitigating circumstances , tell them (without going into detail), and explain what's going on. If you simply spent too little time studying, that's fine. You can explain that you've learned how to manage your time effectively and that you will not do the results. This is a great way to show you've grown since graduation and spin a negative into a positive.

2. Get yourself some work experience

Everyone knows that in the world of work, experience is what really matters. Even experience in an industry can not be passionate about can be helpful, as you will be able to overcome. Hospitality, leisure, and travel businesses do not generally filter applicants based on degree classification, and so on. Small businesses and start-ups are also likely to be more flexible about your academic results. In addition, it could be worth applying for low or unpaid internships, as these can be easier than fully paid work, for obvious reasons.

3. Go extra-curricular

If you got a 2: 2, you are spending too much time on your extra-curricular activities. Even if this is not the case, it's never too late to start! Participating in extracurricular activities , whether sport, drama, journalism, charity work, whatever, is a great source of valuable experience. Talking about the plays you were in the competitions you entered, and what you learn along the way, is a fantastic way to impress.

4. Keep an eye out for graduate schemes

Not all graduate schemes at large companies require a 2: 1. As of 2015 , the Big Four accounting firms, for instance, have been phasing out their 2: 1 screening procedure. More and more employers are recognizing that academic results are not necessarily a reliable indicator of how well a candidate is going to work, so keep your eyes open!

5. Get Networking

It's not what you know, but who you know. With lower than average grades, you can go far if you know the right people . Ask around. See if you can join a family member's or friend's business, or if anyone knows anyone who might be able to land you an interview. Doing work that will involve interacting with lots of different people, like tutoring or volunteering at big events, can also be a great way to improve your network and improve your chances.

6. Consider Self-Employment

If you work for yourself, there's no way your grades will hold you back. Think carefully about whether you have a viable business idea. Do you have a unique product or service that you can provide? In the digital age, it's easier to strike out on your own, but it's important to appreciate that there's always a risk.things won’t work out.

7. Do not worry!

Finally, it is important not to worry too much or let your grades affect your self-esteem. Lots of people recognizing that academic exams are not a reliable test of intelligence, and the vast majority of people will never ask what your grades were. And if you got a 2: 2 or less, it's worth knowing that you're in good company .

Oliver Hurcum writes for Inspiring Interns, which specializes in sourcing candidates for  internships and graduate jobs .