GETTING STARTED
How to start finding that dream graduate job or placement-
Starting your search to find a rewarding and fulfilling job or placement can be a daunting prospect, but it doesn't have to be. This section is designed to help you get off to the best possible start. The good news is if you're reading this you are already well on your way! You've decided getting more work experience or looking for a graduate position is for you, and you're looking at the East Midlands leading graduate recruitment service's website. We advertise hundreds of permanent full-time positions and temporary placements right here, and our site is backed up by experienced recruitment professionals who are on hand to help you every step of the way.
Step one- Know what you want
The best way to get what you want is to know what you want. No-one expects you to have all the answers right now, but you'll get a lot further the more targeted you are rather than just applying for the first graduate job you see.
Take a step back and consider the following:
What are you good at?
What do you enjoy doing?
What interests you?
What are your personal priorities (money, work, family) and values?
What kind of work environment do you enjoy?
Where does your experience lie?
Once you have the answers to these questions you can begin to research the kinds of graduate positions available, and evaluate these options against if they fit in with the answers to the above questions. There is a wealth of information out there in regards to graduate positions, and your university careers service is a good place to start. Typically they run annual careers fairs, which will allow you to meet a lot of graduate recruiters all in one place. They are there to answer your questions, so feel free to grill them! Alternatively you could ask friends and family, ask about their work and their opinions of jobs. Read newspapers, magazine and books.
Ultimately the only way you will truly know if a job is right for you is by actually doing the job yourself. Work experience not only boosts your CV and sets you apart from the rest, but it shows employers you know this is right for you. The UK benefits from a very highly skilled workforce, simply having a degree does not set you apart any more. The best thing you can do is to get some work experience, and it's never too late. Even if you find yourself in a dead-end job that you have to do to pay the bills, volunteer or take something on part-time to gather more relevant experience. Don't write off that dead-end job either, all work experience will afford you some transferable skills!
Step two- Find what you want
Once you know what you want, you can begin to search for it. No doubt along the way your research into what graduate jobs are out there you will have come across various routes, and where is best to look will vary dependent on your chosen career path. However, you may also want to check out the following (in addition to right here on the HotProspects site of course!):
Your university careers service- often they post lists of local, national and in some cases international vacancies on their website. They are also on hand to assist you with your applications, and may have feedback from previous graduates from your university who have applied.
The internet- employers are increasingly using internet to advertise their vacancies due to the speed and cost effectiveness. Some of the larger firms will have dedicated careers pages, whilst smaller firms are more likely to advertise through online job sites. Don't forget to check out local SMEs who may offer more responsibility sooner, than being another cog in a big machine!
Specialist industry magazines- these often have vacancy pages and can help you swot up on your chosen area in preparation for all those applications and interviews.
Newspapers-local and national newspapers often advertise vacancies, some in a weekly supplement and some cover certain industries on certain days. Contact the newspaper or check out their website to find out when the most relevant day is for you.
The job centre- although this is a limited source for professional vacancies, it should not be ignored!
Work experience- once again work experience is a key. As more and more employers take on graduates on an internship or temporary basis before committing to a full-time permanent position. If you can prove yourself on a work placement, then the employer will be able to bear you in mind should a permanent position come up, or if not may know someone that does and recommend you.
Alternatively, don't wait around for your perfect job or placement to turn up, get out there and actively seek it out! Send your CV along with a covering letter as a speculative application, or be creative, track down that right person and send them a video CV telling them exactly why they need you in their business! Don't be afraid to be creative, to get noticed, but never forget the task at hand, getting a job. Stand out, but make sure its for the right reasons.
Step three- Going after what you want
Now you've identified what you want and know where to find it all that's standing in your way is actually going after what you want. What comes next is totally dependent on the company and position you are applying for. Some may require you to fill in an application form, others will ask for a CV, some both! Make sure you are clear on this before applying, as you do not want to fill in the wrong one. Creating a CV is always a good idea, as you never know when it will come in handy. Guidance to help you with CVs and application forms, and what comes next can be found in the following sections of employability advice.
If after reading all this you still need more help, don't hesitate to contact one of dedicated recruitment experts on: 0845 450 5460. Most importantly be positive! Keep thinking and believing that you will get that dream job, as your attitude will affect how you come across and ultimately your success.
Good luck!
