Feature: Top Tips for Finding a Job after University

Graduating from university can be just as daunting and stressful as starting. Not everyone knows exactly what they want to do straight after they finish studying and even if you do, finding a job can be difficult. However, by making a plan and incorporating the following tips provided by St Mary’s University, Twickenham, you will be much better equipped for gaining employment after your studies. Network – It is very important to network within your field of study and expertise. You can do so online using tools such as Linkedin, or in person by attending business fairs and other similar events. The idea is to meet people that work within your area of interest to get your foot in the door and to let them known your availability as well as the relevant skills you possess that would make you a good candidate for employment. Sometimes you may not have to look as far out as you thought by speaking with former teachers and extended family. Take Control – Be spontaneous and motivated to apply for jobs within the application period. Use your initiative and send out CVs and cover letters to organisations you would like to work for, try to stand out and illustrate your suitability along with any other factors that would benefit the organisation. While job searching, remember there are many smaller organisations that are often overlooked yet may still be hiring and which fit your specifications. Don’t get disheartened if the employer does not respond straight away, call the employer and ask for feedback. Do your research – Look into the company’s background, providing evidence of this will impress in the application and at an interview. Furthermore, during interviews or application stages, read through the job specifications and explain how they apply to yourself with examples of when you have shown such aspects before. Online profile and CV – Your online profile is an extension of yourself and should depict your personality and habits in a good light, one that you wouldn’t mind your potential boss viewing. It is not uncommon for employers to check social media sites and other online profiles to accompany your CV during application processes. Similarly, your CV should promote yourself strongly without using any standardised sayings that they read on most other CVs. Instead of this use your experiences to create a personal and unique representation of yourself. Work experience – Nowadays experience is equally as important as gaining a good degree so you cannot be hesitant to work for free, this could well lead to employment if you prove yourself and at the worst you will have more experience to add to your CV. When applying for jobs note down that you are willing to complete work experience and you may get the chance that you need to show employers what you’re made of.