Finding your first job after university seems daunting. However, if you approach the graduate jobs market with determination and patience, you will find that there are many graduate jobs that are rewarding and fulfilling. Looking at the following guidelines should help you get started on your search!
DO Try for an Internship or a Work Experience
While your coursework should be your main priority, you should also use your time in university to build professional contacts. Getting an internship or work experience related to your degree will give you experience in your field and valuable contacts for when you start your search for graduate jobs. Try asking your personal tutor if they have any knowledge of internships in your field. If you are fortunate enough to have an enterprise hub on campus make yourself known to them as they will have access to local internship & work experience opportunities.
DO Use Your University’s Careers Centre
Your university should have a dedicated careers centre or service for all of its students. They are there to help you, so stop by for a chat with them before you graduate! They can help you tailor your CV towards the sort of jobs you want. They also provide opportunities such as access to job fairs where you can meet potential employers and make contacts. Some of them also do mock interviews, so you can practice before your interview techniques prior to the real thing.
DON’T Wait Until You Graduate
Your final year might be very busy, but you shouldn’t wait to start looking for jobs until after you’ve earned your degree. Starting looking for opportunities in January of the year in which you should graduate at the latest. Don’t hesitate to apply with companies, either! They might extend an offer to you even before you finish university if they really want you to work with them.
DON’T Turn Down an Interview
If you are invited to interview for a job that you’re not entirely sold on don’t turn it down. Instead, see it as an opportunity to practice your interviewing skills in a real-life setting. Show up properly dressed and with a professional attitude. You never know-you may encounter the same people later in your professional career! There’s no need to burn bridges right away.
With these guidelines in mind, you should have a good head start in conquering the graduate jobs market. Good luck!