After spending many years studying, revising, sitting exams and finally getting the result you were hoping for, what’s next? The summer off, perhaps travelling a bit, some part-time work – don’t forget to add job hunting to the list. It may the last thing you feel like doing but with over 350,000 graduates also looking for a job, it pays to get ahead of the game. Here are some hints and tips to help you get a foot on the job search ladder:
Make sure you stand out
You may be up against other candidates with better or more relevant degrees, from more favoured universities, or those with related work experience. But rather than worrying about these, you and your application have to stand out. Every application needs to be tailored to the role in question, blanket graduate job applications will not cut it. Research the role, the company and the industry and use key words or phrases in your application. Showing you have put the effort in to researching around the role can only boost your chances.
Know what employers are looking for
More than anything, you will need to demonstrate that you have the skills and desire to meet the needs of this specific graduate role. Of course work experience can be valuable but so can your abilities: highlight your teamwork, organisation and leadership talents and be sure that in an interview scenario, you can give examples of situations where they have been put to good use.
Pitch your CV right
If you have worked throughout your degree, don’t let it go unmentioned. Maintaining a job whilst studying, especially in your final year, demonstrates consistency, the ability to cope and a good work ethic. It can be more important than what the job actually entailed. Make sure your passion for the industry or role shines through. Graduate CV writing is not an easy task so get help from a professional CV writer to help target your application – if it lands you a job, it will undoubtedly be a sound investment.
Ace the interview
Hopefully you will be selected for interview which is your real chance to showcase your talents and secure the role. There is so much advice on how to succeed at graduate interview but above all, be sure to listen to the questions, consider your answers, and sell yourself at every opportunity. And don’t forget to have some relevant questions of your own to ask the interviewer.
City CV are specialist graduate CV writers and graduate interview coaches. They have insider knowledge of the recruitment industry and what employers are looking for. Whether you need help with your CV, some interview skills coaching or assistance with a specific graduate application form, City CV can help. Call today on +44 20 7100 6656 or email enquiries@citycv.com