Written by Dave Cullen
With recruiters being inundated with CVs from highly qualified professionals, the job market can be a tough place for a recent graduate to break into. With limited to no experience on their CVs, graduates have to find more creative ways of showcasing their talents and skills to prospective employers. Here are 5 way ways a graduate can improve their chances of landing a job.
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A global outlook: When considering graduates nowadays, employers have a preference for those who possess a global outlook. This means if you have studied abroad you are likely to be viewed by an employer as a more attractive candidate. Another way of gaining a worldly, marketable quality is to learn a second language. In June, CPL attended the Bilingual People Jobs Fair in London, which sought to connect German, Dutch, Danish, French, Norwegian and Swedish speaking candidates with a range of exciting international positions across Europe. Having more than one language certainly adds to your value as a potential new hire.
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Get up to speed: Learn the latest industry technologies to improve you’re skills. For example, if you are applying for a role with an IT support company, ensure you have conducted extensive research to find out exactly what they are looking for in terms of software knowledge. Being up to speed on the latest IT standards will give you a leg up on those graduates who haven’t done their homework. Employers will appreciate this approach because it demonstrates your willingness to go above and beyond the basic requirements.
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Internships and volunteering: These schemes are highly recommended for graduates to gain real world practical experience. Such programs give graduates valuable time to learn what it’s like to work in their target industry. Furthermore, interns who work hard and apply themselves can be rewarded by being made a permanent employee. Irrespective of whether an intern is kept on or not, their internship is a valid and useful experience to put on their CV.
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Develop your skills and knowledge: Many employers now expect candidates to diversify their skillsets. Jobseekers are advised to market not only the skills required for the role they are applying for but also advertise their skills in other areas. If a candidate comes from an IT background, it may be advantageous or even necessary for them to have a grounding in business.
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Learn professional conduct: Recent graduates can be unfamiliar with the professional working environment and as a result they must adapt to its codes and conventions. Exhibiting professional conduct is of the utmost importance in both finding a job and succeeding at it. Adhering to the office dress code, being polite and punctual and behaving in a respectful manner are crucial to making the right impression with a new employer.
