Frequently Asked Questions from Graduates

Where’s the Best Place to find a Job?
There are four main sources to help a graduate find their first job. Firstly the internet is a great place to start. There are many generic and industry specific job websites e.g. www.reed.co.uk, www.monster.co.uk, www.prospects.ac.uk. Secondly read the classified section of local and national newspapers. You will find that the National Newspapers focus on different sectors every day e.g. Media, Finance, Public Sector, Sales, and Administration etc. Employment Agencies can also be very useful and can be found on the High Street or Online. Finally if you know which companies you would like to work for, email your CV with a Cover Letter or look at the ‘current vacancies’ page on their website

How do I Write a Great CV?
Searching the internet and reading information on sites such as www.ImproveYourCV.co.uk can really help. You can pay to have your CV written for you but this can be costly and is not necessary for a graduate. Some Recruitment Agencies will help you format your CV and if you haven’t had a great deal of work experience use the One Page Summary CV format.

Where Can I Find Information on Different Job Roles?
Again, www.prospects.ac.uk is a great website for Graduates and you can learn about different industry sectors and job responsibilities.

Shall I go travelling or find a job?
If you decide to go travelling make sure that you remember you have to get back to reality at some stage! On your travels try new challenges and experiences so you have something to write about on your CV or to talk about in a job interview on your return. Travelling can help a graduate; learn leadership skills, gain more independence and deal with stressful situations.

I didn’t get the Degree I was predicted. Will this affect my Job Prospects?
Although you may be disappointed with your result this shouldn’t affect your chances of getting a good job. Focus on skills and other experiences in your CV e.g. sporting achievements, voluntary work, and other education qualifications.