Graduate Recruitment

With academic courses finished it can be hard not to panic, especially if you are unsure about your first steps into the big wide world! Don’t panic! We can help if you have just graduated, or if you are in your first or final year.

Stand out

Make sure your CV is 100% up to date and you will need to tailor it for EVERY job application. You need to fully demonstrate your commitment to the job on offer. You also need to explicitly show an employer the reasons why they should hire you. Fully explain your skills and experience and exactly how they relate to the job on offer. Ensure your CV is eye-catching and professional. If you find this difficult or do not have the time, call CV Master Careers on 0870 020 3552. Otherwise, highlight your relevant skills, employment and the most appropriate experience that you have. Experiement with using different colours or format if your CV lacks impact.

CV’s can date and it is important that you keep up to date with developments in technology. Some employers ask you to apply only online, so you must ensure that your CV can be received correctly by an employer, in all formats. Even when applying online you will need to ensure that you have an up to date copy of your CV. You should take it along to any nterviews you may land, you maybe asked for it. Presenting your CV can give you extra impact and fix you in their minds as someone who is prepared, organised and serious about the job.

Enhance your CV

Try volunteering or temporary work if your CV is not as dynamic as it could be. Simply having some current relevant experience can make the difference to an employer. Be open to opportunities to enhance your employability. Taking a short course or a taster day could open your mind to a whole new career path. Many successful people have found jobs that are an extension of their hobby; perhaps your local club needs a treasurer. Be on the lookout for opportunities to enhance your CV. Having lots of interests also opens the door to the hidden job market as the more contacts you have the better your chances of getting a job.

Get back in the library!

Yes, I know that you said that you would never step foot into another library again! However, libraries are a good source of free newspapers, magazines, periodicals and of course books. With a limited budget you have to be very creative. Your local careers service may help you to revamp your CV for free. Or you could use the cost effective service at CV Master Careers. You are probably intending on buying a new suit for interviews, Think of investing in a CV as an investment in yourself. It will give you confidence and help you to see your skills and experience clearly.

Ensure your CV is attractive

By planning your strategy you can ensure maximum results. You must put time and effort into crafting a CV that is right for you. You must ensure that you allow enough time to produce a good quality document. Recruiters are experienced professionals and prefer to deal with candidates that respect and understand that. They see thousands of CV’s at a time and you need to ensure that your does not go straight in the bin. A CV is your marketing document and it should reflect your personality. Do not undermine your chances of success by not putting enough effort into job hunting. Proofread your CV several times; ask for help with this if you need it.

Network for success

If your dream job is difficult to enter without relevant work experience, arrange a work placement. Many organisations would appreciate an extra pair of hands at busy periods; volunteer your services. Seek out as many opportunities as you can to expand your practical experience. Write to people who have the job that you want. E-mail has made contacting people a lot easier. Many people have websites and would welcome a request for advice on how to break into your chosen field. Perhaps speak to people on your course and see what approaches have worked for them.

Keep positive

Dont worry there is a job out there for you. You have taken the time, effort, expense and trouble to attend further education. Make sure you extract the most benefit from the experience. Use all of the services that are available to you. Tailor your response to every job that you apply for, be positive and confident in an interview situation and you will be successful.

You only need to secure one job, so think positive. Good Luck