Recap: Graduate Job Search Strategies & Career Development Tips
- Rayaan Farah
- Feb 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 6
The leap from university to a full-time career is a big one and can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, you’ve got this!
In our recent panel session, guest panellists, Timi Adefolu, Rejwanul Alom, and Josh Dulku shared their tips on navigating the job search, applying for graduate schemes, and adjusting to life after university.
1. Start Your Graduate Job Search Early
Start applying for graduate schemes early ideally between September and November of your final year. Graduate employers often recruit months in advance, so it’s important to get ahead of the competition.
Tap into your university career services for advice, CV workshops, and job fairs. They’re there to help you with the practical stuff like preparing your applications and tailoring your CV.
Top Tip🎯: Our panellists shared that using platforms such as, Bright Network, Target Jobs and Gradcracker helped with their graduate job search.
2. Tailor Your Graduate Applications to Each Company
Research each company thoroughly. Understand their values, culture, and the work they’re doing. Tailor your application to show how your skills and experiences align with their needs as well as show your enthusiasm for the role.
Personalise your CV and cover letter. Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Companies want to see that you’ve put effort into understanding them and are not just sending out generic applications.
Boost your job search with AI-powered CV tips! 🚀 Read our blog now and learn how to tailor your CV for application success.
3. Showcase Soft Skills in Your Graduate Job Interviews
Employers are looking for more than just technical knowledge. Highlight soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These are crucial in almost any graduate job, so show how you’ve honed them through university projects, part-time jobs, or volunteering.
Use real examples from your university life such as, being president of a society or mentoring first-year students. This will help you stand out from other candidates.
What are soft skills? Read our blog now and learn how to stand out from the crowd!
4. Prepare for Different Graduate Application Processes
Different graduate schemes have different application processes as some may involve video interviews, assessment centres, or psychometric tests. Research each one carefully and be prepared for any surprises.
Don’t let challenges like imposter syndrome or burnout hold you back. Job hunting can be tough, but take breaks when needed and stay organised.
Top Tip🎯: Your university careers service have subscriptions to access practice psychometric tests or interview material. Utilise their service as much as you can!
5. Network Like a Pro
Building relationships across the company will help you grow faster in your career. Connect with colleagues outside of your immediate team and stay engaged with company events.
Take every opportunity to network within the company whether it’s through virtual meetups, team lunches, or even social events. Building these relationships early will help you feel more integrated and supported.
Top Tip🎯: The company you work at will have a community for graduates which will offer regular networking opportunities with fellow graduates and senior leaders.
6. Be Proactive and Get Ahead
The jump from university to full-time work is a big one, and the main difference is the level of responsibility. Employers will expect you to take ownership of tasks, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively.
Get ahead by involving yourself in the company culture. Shadow senior colleagues, ask them questions, and take on different projects. This not only helps you adjust but also shows your commitment to being a part of the company’s broader mission.
Learn more about being proactive from Indeed's Career Guide
7. Embrace Learning in Your First Graduate Role
Don’t stress about mistakes as you’re just starting out, and no one expects perfection. Use mistakes as an opportunity to learn and grow. Seek feedback, implement it, and watch yourself improve.
Explore different roles within your company as gaining experience in various areas will help you understand where your true interests lie.
Hear from a graduate's experience? Read our blog now and learn how to navigate challenges in your graduate scheme!
Empowering Your Career Journey
Navigating your first graduate job search and adjusting to life after university may feel daunting, however you’ll set yourself up for success by following these actionable tips and making the most of available resources. Keep pushing forward and take every opportunity to learn. You've got this!
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