Over the summer, students across the UK put on their mortarboards and gowns to officially graduate after years of hard work. There’s no denying that your graduation day is a big one. An achievement that you’ve worked towards your whole life and a day of parents and loved ones looking at you with teary eyes and a fiercely proud look.
Now that’s all over, the reality of finding a job should be starting to sink in. While there’s no harm in enjoying some relaxation time, now’s the time to step up the search to find work. A simple Google search of the sector you’re looking to work in will pull up numerous jobs ads, it’s important that you don’t just apply for anything and everything as it’s likely that this will be reflected in your lack of enthusiasm during the recruitment process.
While you can’t be expected to be appointed chief executive of a national company straight away - or even any time in the near future - landing a job you love as a graduate is possible. You just need to know where to look and how to apply yourself. Here we suggest five ways to help you land your dream job.
1. It all starts with a good CV
In the age of digital media and social networking, having a solid CV may seem like an old-fashioned concept, and a factor that is at the lower end of your priority list. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. The whole recruitment process starts with an application and a submission of your CV, so if you don’t get it right it’s unlikely you’ll even be considered for a role.
But what constitutes a good CV? This will vary depending on the industry and role but, nevertheless, there are some elements that ring true for most CVs. This includes keeping your CV concise by removing any information that is irrelevant. If a recruiter or employer picks up a lengthy CV that waffles on, they won’t bother reading it. Information you should include is key skills, education and previous experience. [Read top CV tips from our recruiters]
2. Networking events
There are many professionals who have found jobs through people that they know because they have been recommended or mentioned. This is why it is important for graduates that are new to the industry to use any connections they have! However most graduates don't have this privilege, which is why networking is vital.
Across the UK, there are thousands of events every year, specifically designed to help industry professionals meet others within the industry. As a graduate, this will be a great way to meet important people and gain crucial knowledge. Run a Google search for your target sector or have a browse through Eventbrite.
3. Connect!
A great way to gain visibility is to makes sure you are on social media and connected with companies, brands, recruiters and industry experts. Today, LinkedIn is a platform that acts a virtual CV, providing professional information on a person while helping them learn about what is happening in the industry.
As well as calling candidates, recruiters use LinkedIn and other social media channels to gain information and contact individuals.
4.Talk and listen
Do you know anyone who currently works in the industry you’re hoping to break into? Or someone that could put you in contact with industry professionals? If so, get in touch with them for a chat about how they got into the sector, what skills are important, and how they would recommend you go about things.
The more people you talk to, the better, as you’ll begin to form a more well-rounded vision of the industry you’re interested in.
5. Ask for feedback
When it comes to interviews, the best way to improve if you don’t get the job is to learn from feedback - something that you may not receive if you don’t ask. Recruiters will give you feedback if you ask them, and may end up pointing out something that you weren’t even aware of before.
Whatever the feedback, don’t let it discourage you and take it lightly - after all, the best way to learn is from your mistakes.
If you're interested in pursuing a career in the Food, Fresh Produce, Horticulture, Agriculture or Garden & Leisure sectors but could do with a little advice, please do email us via info@morepeople.co.uk or call 01780 480530 to have a chat about your CV and career with one of our sector specialists.
