So it’s finally time to start sending out applications to graduate jobs, schemes, internships, apprenticeships, you name it and it’s getting an application sent in.
First of all, good luck! It’s as exciting a time as it is nerve-wracking.
To help you along your way, we’ve pulled together a quick checklist of things we’d recommend you do, or have ready, as you set out on your job search.
1. Preparation
- Identify the kind of industry you want to work in, and the job roles you’d like to apply for within it
- Define your key skills and strengths when it comes to work
- List out values, so you can find companies that align
- Gather all the relevant documents you need ready: your CV, a cover letter template, any portfolio links, certifications (if needed), and things like your national insurance number (some employers may ask for this)
- Create a professional email address if you don’t have an appropriate one already
- Create or update your LinkedIn profile
2. Application
- Tailor your CV to each job you apply for, use keywords from the job description to tick the boxes employers want and highlight matches between your skillset and the job requirements
- Proofread any submissions for grammar and formatting
- If you’re contacting employers directly, address the hiring manager by name if possible (LinkedIn will be your friend here)
- Read the job description fully
- Research the company you’re applying at, drop in relevant and tailored information in your cover letter
- Check file names are professional (e.g., Firstname_Lastname_CV.pdf)
3. Organisation
- Consider making a list, using a programme like Excel or Notes, of all the roles you have applied to, including key information such as: Role, company, contact details, deadlines, date applied, follow-up date, relevant link, etc.
- Keep a copy of each job description (they sometimes disappear later) in case you’re called back for an interview
- Prepare for the next round, be it an interview, an assessment centre, do your research on things like company mission, values, products, recent news, and practise your answers
- After any interviews, consider sending a thank-you email to the interviewer within 24 hours, if you have their contact details
- Don’t be afraid to send a follow-up message around 2 weeks after applying if you’ve not heard back and no hear-back deadline was given