Securing graduate jobs after university can seem daunting but knowing how to navigate it can put your mind at ease.

Applying for graduate jobs after university can seem daunting. The job market can be competitive, but knowing how to navigate it can ease your mind and help secure employment.

It’s important to remember that some graduates will find employment straightaway, whereas for others it may take more time. Let’s explore ways to increase your chances of securing a job while preparing you for the process.

Start Early: Networking and Internships

For students looking to secure graduate jobs, one of the best things to do is enhance employability before graduation to gain relevant experience. Whether through a part-time job or an internship in a relevant sector, you can develop skills, build a professional network, and get a taste of the working world. Often, but not always, employers prioritise candidates who have practical experience on top of their academic achievements.

Internships: If you’re in the position to undertake an internship during the summer or part-time around university, then consider it. Many companies will take on interns as full-time employees after they graduate forming a direct pathway to employment.

Networking: If you’re unable to do an internship, or you work part-time elsewhere around your studies, networking can also be a big help in securing graduate jobs. Attend career fairs, join industry-specific student organisations, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. Don’t be afraid to reach out to alumni from your university working in your desired field. They have been in your position and can give you valuable insights relevant to your career.

Tailor Your CV, Cover Letter and Portfolio

Securing graduate jobs will require a tailored CV, cover letter or portfolio. Your CV and cover letter are your first chance to make a good impression on potential employers. A generic CV may not stand out, so it is good practice to tailor your documents for each job application.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Focus on the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your previous work or academic projects make you a strong fit for the position. Include keywords from the job vacancy in your CV relevant to your experience.
• Customise Your Cover Letter: Show that you’ve researched the company and understand its needs. Explain how your background and skills can contribute to the company’s goals. Personalising your cover letter can set you apart from other candidates who send generic ones.
• Portfolio and Online Presence: In today’s digital age, your online presence can significantly impact your job search. Employers often check candidates’ online profiles, so make sure yours reflects the professional image you want to convey. Ensuring your LinkedIn profile is up to date with a professional photo and recent experience can be a big help. If your field requires a portfolio, create a personal website or online portfolio to showcase your work.

Preparing for Interviews

The interview is often the most nerve-wracking part of the graduate job’s application process. However, it’s also your best opportunity to impress potential employers. Preparation is key to handling interviews confidently and effectively. Conduct mock interviews with friends, family or career services at your university. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become with the interview format.

While every interview process is different, these example interview questions are likely to come up:

·       “Tell me about yourself.” This is often the first question in an interview and your answer should be a concise summary of your background. Focus on your education, relevant experiences, and why you are interested in the position. You should avoid diving into personal details too much. Employers don’t need to know your life story, but they might be interested in hearing about your hobbies.

·       “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Highlight strengths relevant to the job and provide examples of how you have demonstrated them. When discussing weaknesses, choose something you have actively improved, and explain the steps you’ve taken to address it.

·       “Why do you want to work here?” Research the company thoroughly before the interview. Your answer should reflect your understanding of the company’s mission, culture, and recent achievements. Explain how your goals align with the company’s objectives and how you can contribute to its success.

·       “Tell me about a time you faced a challenge at work or in a project.” Describe the situation, the task you needed to accomplish, the actions you took, and the result of your efforts. This approach helps you provide clear and detailed responses and shows how you work well in adversity.

·       “Where do you see yourself in five years?” Employers ask this to gauge your ambition and long-term interest in the industry. Be honest but also strategic—mention career goals that are realistic and show a desire to grow within the company or industry.

·       “Do you have any questions for us?” Remember, you’re also trying to find out whether the company would be a good fit for you. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the role and helps you assess whether the company is somewhere you could see yourself working.

 Continue Learning and Upskilling

The job market is constantly evolving so requirements for graduate jobs will be changing all the time. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning so after university, consider pursuing additional certificates or courses relevant to your field:

Online Courses: There are plenty of online platforms that offer a wide range of free courses to help you acquire new skills or deepen your knowledge in specific areas. Many of these courses provide certifications that can be added to your CV.

Workshops and Skills Bootcamps: The Cornwall Opportunities portal highlights hundreds of Skills Bootcamps and industry workshops to keep boosting skills and furthering knowledge. These workshops and bootcamps are also excellent networking opportunities.· 

Stay Persistent and Positive

For students seeking graduate jobs, the journey can be long and challenging but persistence is key. Rejection is a natural part of it—learn from each experience and keep moving forward.

Getting your first job after university marks a significant achievement, and with the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of success. Start early, be proactive in building your CV and network, and approach interviews with confidence. Continuous learning and a positive attitude will serve you well as you navigate the job market and embark on your career journey.

Most importantly, remember to celebrate small wins such as landing an interview or receiving positive feedback. Each step you take brings you closer to your goal.

For any further advice, assistance or guidance with securing a graduate job, visit our Looking For A Job page.