How to get a graduate job this summer
In this guest blog post, Inspiring interns & graduates, a leading UK graduate recruitment agency, provides advice on how to find a graduate job over the summer.
Transitioning from academia to the professional world of work marks a significant shift in a new graduate’s professional journey. It’s a time filled with excitement for the future, mixed with apprehension about what lies ahead. It’s time to shift your focus to securing a job that aligns with your skills, interests, and career aspirations. So, it’s essential to approach your job search strategically.
Here are some top tips on how to secure a graduate job this summer:
1. Reflect on your skill set and future goals
Before you begin applying for graduate jobs, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on your career aspirations and strengths. This process of self-assessment not only helps clarify long-term goals but also enables you to tailor your job search to align with your ambitions and interests within your chosen field:
Firstly, identify your interests by asking yourself questions such as:
- What industries or roles excite you?
- What causes or issues are you passionate about?
Next, assess your skills and experiences:
- Technical skills: List your competencies e.g. (programming languages, data analysis & research methods).
- Soft skills: Highlight abilities such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Lastly, envision what you’d like your professional future to look like:
- Determine the type of role, industry, and responsibilities you’d wish to aspire to in the near future (between 2 to 5 years).
- Seek opportunities for professional growth through training/promotional opportunities.
2. Networking is your friend
Networking is one of the most powerful tools in your job search. It opens doors to opportunities that aren’t typically advertised to a public audience and provides valuable insights into your chosen industry. Here’s how you can build your network effectively:
- Attend events: Look for industry-related events, such as conferences or networking mixers, where you can meet professionals in your field. These events provide valuable opportunities to make face-to-face connections and exchange contact information.
- Reach out: Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations with professionals you admire or who work in companies you’re interested in. Send personalised emails expressing your interest in their work and requesting a short informal interview to chat about their career journey. In some instances, they may even be able to point you in the direction of job opportunities.
- Utilise online platforms: Join professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry. Take the time to create a complete and compelling profile that highlights your specific skills and experiences. Take time to engage with others on forums and comment on posts that align with your interests and chosen field.
- University alumni: Take the time to connect with your university Careers Centre. Alumni can provide valuable advice on how to break into the industry, tips on job applications, and even match you with the latest job openings.
3. Utilise job search platforms
To stay updated on new job postings, set up alerts on popular job search platforms such as Indeed and Glass Door. In doing so, you’ll receive notifications when any jobs listed that match your criteria are posted, ensuring you don’t miss out on suitable opportunities. Tailor your alerts based on keywords, location, and job type to narrow down your search.
In addition, sign up with graduate recruitment agencies like Inspiring Interns. This London-based agency has an extensive network of employers, and their team can match you with suitable job opportunities. Furthermore, they can also provide valuable advice on CV writing, interview preparation, and career planning.
4. Consider part-time or temporary roles
If you’re struggling to secure a graduate job, consider taking temporary or part-time positions where you can gain hands-on experience in your field of interest. Even if these roles aren’t your ideal long-term career path, they offer valuable learning opportunities and the chance to develop new skills, which you can include within your CV.
Employers value candidates who demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to take on a handful of new challenges within the workplace. Highlighting your previous job experience showcases your versatility and proactive approach to career development, which should stand you in good stead when applying for future positions.
