Time at university has absolutely flown by and now you’re left with the daunting task of having to find a graduate job in a tough and competitive job market. Don’t fret. We’re here to give you a little advice to help steer you in the right direction.
Have I missed the deadline for graduate programmes?
Well if you’ve already graduated then yes. However, don’t let this dishearten you as most companies will allow you to apply the following year. Most graduate programmes recruit from September for you to start the following September, this means ideally you should be applying for them in your final year of university.
Don’t think that a graduate programme is your only option. Even though there are many benefits to them, such as having a full-time job AND a salary plus receiving training but this might not be for you and that’s okay.
Benefits of a Graduate Job
Graduate jobs are more lenient when it comes to your final grade. Didn’t get that 2:1? Don’t worry! There are plenty of graduate jobs out there that will accept less than a 2:1. If you’re looking for more practical and hands on work then a graduate job is definitely your best option as opposed to a graduate programme where there is more structured training. That’s not to say a grad job won’t invest in you just as much, you’ll often find yourself progressing more quickly and really hitting the ground running with a graduate job.
The downfall is you won’t experience a wide variety of the business as a graduate programme so if you’re still unsure what part of the industry you want to work within this can be a disadvantage compared to a graduate programme.
Should I do a Masters?
If you’re wanting to do a masters just to buy you some time: DON’T! It really would be a waste of your time and money and inevitably leading you to more debt if you apply for a postgraduate loan.
Why should I do a Masters?
You should do a Masters if you’re wanting to specialise in a certain field and you need one to fulfil your career. For example, a career in medicine might require further qualifications past your degree.
If you’re genuinely interested in the subject and you want to delve deeper into the subject and expand your knowledge.
Can I do an Internship?
You’re probably kicking yourself if you’ve already graduated and haven’t got any work experience but don’t worry. Yes, your university peers may have an internship under their belt if they did one while at university but that doesn’t mean you can’t do one now and they’ll still hold the same value and give you the experience you need.
Can I use my part-time job as experience?
Absolutely! If you’ve been working a part-time job while studying at university this has unlocked so much experience that you might not even realise you have! We’re sure there have been times in your part time job where you’ve had to be motivated, use your excellent customer service skills, meet deadlines, work as part of a team and on your own initiative.
Set up a LinkedIn account!
If you haven’t done so already we’d definitely suggest you set up a LinkedIn account! This is a great way to network with professionals. You can add to your profile that you’re an ‘English Literature Graduate seeking an entry-level PR role’ that way people know exactly what you’re looking for.
What now?
It’s over to you now. Hopefully, you’re feeling a little bit more relaxed. Take the leap and just go for it!
