5 Golden Rules for Graduate Jobseekers

Young woman in graduation cap and gown. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Think it’s a case of walking out of degree studies and strolling into a dream job right away? Dream on – it’s nothing of the sort!

The good news however is that those who get it right stand to land some of the most desirable jobs in the UK, it’s just a case of learning a few golden rules for graduate jobseekers.

Here’s a brief look at the basics to get you started:

Don’t Rule Out SMEs

Sure you might want to head straight for the biggest players in any given industry, but SMEs across the UK are right now offering some of the most incredibly rewarding and beneficial schemes for graduates the likes of which tower over most entry-level posts with the big dogs. As such, don’t only factor in the companies you’ve heard of as your dream job might be waiting with an up and comer you don’t yet know.

Spread the Word

It’s funny, but research has shown that one in five graduates is too shy or proud to admit they are looking for a job. This is completely counterproductive, as how can word of your greatness possibly spread unless you come clean about your job-hunting?

Sell, Sell and Sell

Your CV will for the most part look identical to about a million others, so really go to town on the bits that allow you to shine. From extracurricular activities to personal interests and so on and so forth, never overlook any area that allows you to sell yourself rather than just becoming another qualified statistic on the pile.

Be Wary of Weariness

As soon as you have become so bored with applying that you really cannot be bothered to even spell your name right, it’s best not to bother at all until you get your mojo back. Send in a crappy application and you might just blow your chances for good – not just this time around.

Keep it Real

And finally, remember that you’ve got a good four decades at least of work ahead of you so don’t be too obsessed with only targeting your dream job right away. Give yourself plenty of time and consider starting work doing something a little lower down the ladder to at least keep you moving – you can always keep looking and applying while working, after all.

By Lisa Morton

Lisa Morton recently helped a friend to score a job with some help from All the Top Bananas and has since taken to regular blogging to assist those finding themselves in a similar position.