Like most graduates, you're probably looking forward to a summer of celebration post-graduation, full of house parties, festivals and long awaited holidays with friends. With no stresses, deadlines or university commitments, it's a great time to let your hair down for summer, but it's worth remembering plenty of your fellow graduates will have knuckled down and started the job hunt as soon as the graduation gown was dropped off at the dry cleaners, if not before! In fact, once you’ve graduated, your peers become your competitors in the jobs market.
So where do you begin in your quest for graduate employment?
What do you want?
There’s no point firing off applications from the get-go. You need to ascertain exactly what it is that you’re seeking. For example, are you looking for a graduate job or a graduate scheme? What industry do you want to work in? Are you willing to relocate? What kind of company culture appeals to you? Are you after adventure? Money? Security?
By clarifying your goals, you’ll be more motivated and won’t waste energy on applying for jobs that aren’t right for you. You’ll also come across as a much stronger candidate in interviews, as you’ll be able to clearly articulate why you’re right for the role.
How will you get it?
Once you know what you’re looking for, you need to develop a strategy for your search. Let's be honest, your daily routine has probably gone slightly down the pan since you finished uni, so here are a few tips on getting organised and staying motivated:
● Set your alarm for an early wake-up call each day. Start as you mean to go on!
● Do all your job hunting in your own ‘office’ space: it could be your spare room, the kitchen table, your local coffee shop…don’t just grab your laptop while you’re lying in bed or watching TV.
● Create to-do lists: have a clear plan of tasks for each day so you don’t find yourself twiddling your thumbs. And ticking off that last task at the end of the day will give you that extra little burst of motivation.
● Document everything. Who have you emailed? What calls have you made? It’ll help jog your memory when you need to revisit or chase up an opportunity.
● Get a part-time job - retail, bar work, whatever. It might seem counterproductive but it’ll give your week more structure; take away any financial pressure, and fill what could otherwise become a questionable CV gap.
Why should you get it?
Be your own marketeer and sell yourself as a must-have for prospective employers. You deserve that job, so make it known...
The CV
Tailor your CV to the role you’re applying for. Decide which of your uni modules best fits the job spec; prove the relevant skills with your accomplishments. Also, don’t omit that unusual hobby of yours, or your unforgettable gap year experience: these will showcase your passion and personality, and create great talking points for interview.
The Cover Letter
Your CV might be great, but if the employer is swamped with graduate hopefuls, this letter could be the deciding factor in your chance for an interview. Talk about why you want to work for the company; reference CV highlights and how they make you perfect for the role. Be bold, be different, and give them a little taste of who you are.
The Interview
You’ve got your foot in the door; you’re on the home stretch. Arrive with time to spare, dressed for success and with your research on the company fresh in your mind. Show the employer your confidence and enthusiasm for the role. Finish by asking at least three questions.
What if you don’t get it?
No matter how skilled, motivated, prepared or confident you are, the likelihood is that you will receive knockbacks. This process can take time, but don’t lose heart. Ask for feedback at any point you face rejection, and use it as a tool to carve yourself into the perfect candidate for the next opportunity. As long as you stay resilient and persistent, victory will be yours.
We're currently looking for ambitious graduates to join us as Recruitment Consultant's in our London, Birmingham and Leicester offices! To learn more check out our Work For Uspage or contact our Talent Acquisition team at talent@jarsolutions.co.uk, attaching your current CV.
