10 steps to finding employment after graduation

Remember that a degree in itself is no longer enough to stand out from the crowd. You're competing with thousands of other graduates – think about what differentiates you.

1. A degree is not always enough

Remember that a degree in itself is no longer enough to stand out from the crowd. You' re competing with thousands of other graduates – think about what differentiates you.

2. Experience makes you stand out

If you're focused on working in a particular sector but don't have any experience, spend as much time as you can afford to, undertaking some work experience. The temptation is to rush into a job so you can make a dent in your student debts. But a chunk of work experience in your chosen field in the months after graduation could make all the difference to finding a better job in the longer term.

3. Interests count

Which of your past and present hobbies demonstrate interests / skills that could be applied in the workplace? Don't be afraid to shout about the less obvious or seemingly less important things if they could be relevant but at the same time, if your only hobby is socialising, there’s no real benefit in including this.

4. Tales of travel

Promote, but don't over-promote, any time spent travelling (either before or after university). Travelling can demonstrate a broader perspective on life which is appealing to employers, but is no match for work experience in the sector you're targeting.

5. Be focused

If you make a decision to work in a particular area and remain focused on this goal it is likely to result in greater success than if you spread yourself thinly across lots of different areas. Demonstrate a commitment to working in a certain area to a potential employer and it will increase your chances of securing your chosen role. But it is also important to be flexible – otherwise you could find yourself waiting a long time for the right job to come up: be realistic about the competition, for example international development roles are extremely popular and therefore also extremely competitive – that’s not to say you won't get a job in this area but that you must be realistic about what skills and experience you will need to be successful.

6. Check it out

Research your chosen industry. Seek advice from those working in it, read relevant publications and be able to demonstrate this industry knowledge when applying for roles.

7. Professionalism counts

Be professional. It sounds obvious but adopting a professional attitude, demonstrating a strong commercial awareness, being up to date on current affairs and presenting yourself in the right way are fundamental. Think about the e mail address and voicemail message you use – it may sound petty but it will create a first impression whether you want it to or not, and while axewieldingmadman@hotmail.com may be great for your mates, it might not create the professional image you are trying to get across.

8. Let yourself shine

Be bold. When competing with thousands of other graduates you can’t afford to be timid. If you don't sell yourself then the chances are nobody else will.

9. Preparation is key to success

Be prepared. Many interview questions are pretty standard so there’s no excuse to be unprepared. As an absolute minimum, have in mind responses to questions which ask about strengths, weaknesses, ambitions and reasons why you feel you're suited to the role.

10. Find your perfect partner

Once you've considered these areas, find a recruitment consultancy which will recognise your marketability and proactively work with you to secure a role in your chosen field.

By The Principle Partnership (www.tpp.co.uk)

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