Hey guys! Welcome back to another post. 😉
Since I’m a final year student, I have recently started to look for graduate schemes in the area I want to work after I graduate, however this task is a lot harder than what it seems! From looking up companies and the schemes they offer, to massive application forms and several psychometric tests, plus assignments and dissertation prep, my days seem endless. With this in mind and if you are going through the same, I decided to make a list with a few tips, whether you are currently looking for graduate scheme or plan to apply for one in the future.
- CV and Cover Letter
My first tip is about tailoring your cv and cover letter to the scheme you want to apply for. You want to show employers interest in their company and highlight the best skills you have that you think would make a nice addition to the team. In the cover letter, try your best to show your personality and job experiences and make sure you know a lot about the company you’re applying for and why you want the role. If you struggle with this or want to put your mind at ease, you can book an appointment at hired@UCB and they’ll be able to help.
- Consult a careers advisor
If you are not quite sure about what schemes are out there and would like a professional opinion and help, you can always consult a careers advisor. They are there to advise you and guide you with your professional plans. If you are interested, go to the hired@UCB page and book one! You’ll thank me later hahah.
- Find a company you like
I cannot stress this enough. The company may have a good graduate scheme and plenty of benefits, however if your values don’t match theirs, all of it is worthless… Find a company that you think you would like to work for, research about their values and history, and see if you can imagine yourself working there and being happy doing so.
   4. Prepare, prepare, prepare…
You’ll need to do a lot of preparation before applying and while in the process. From psychometric tests to multiple interviews and assessment centres, this process will be something you’ll be spending a lot of time on, so you must ensure that time was well spent and worth it. Do a lot of research and mock tests on psychometric tests, try to practise for the interviews and look up some interview questions you might be asked (remember to follow the STAR Model, this will help).
- Be confident and proud of yourself despite of the outcome
Regardless of the outcome, try to be proud of yourself for how far you came. If you get the job, congratulations and hope you make the most out of it, but if you don’t, do not let this wreck your confidence. Instead, try to learn from it and see what you can do to improve in a future job application.
See you next week!!
Alex x