Perhaps you are a final-year or postgraduate student struggling to secure an interview or progress your application for a graduate scheme. Are you feeling demoralised by rejections and overwhelmed by the demands these applications make on your time?
We know that graduate scheme roles are highly competitive, and there is an expectation for students to meet application deadlines while also managing academic demands, this can all lead to a great deal of stress and disappointment.
Reliable information also shows that most graduates do not secure a Graduate Scheme offer. Instead, they often find immediate hire positions both in small and large organisations.
Before we explore the range of graduate roles, let’s debunk some myths about Graduate Schemes. These roles are only a minority of graduate vacancies, not everyone is offered one, and they do not suit everyone.
At the Careers Service, we encourage you to consider all opportunities as part of your job search, with employers who will value your skills and aptitude as a graduate.
Immediate hires: These roles are available throughout the year and can be found in both the corporate and public sectors. For example, graduates can apply for executive-level roles within the Civil Service or NHS.
SME employers: Most graduate jobs are within small and medium-sized organisations, known as SMEs. Most employers in the UK fall into this category, including start-ups and micro-companies. These organisations may not offer large schemes but can provide excellent training grounds for your first graduate role. To find out more about the benefits of working within a small business, check out our upcoming events.
Self-employment: For true autonomy and an interest in starting your own business, or freelancing as a contractor, the Careers Service can support you along this journey. If you want to know more about working for yourself after graduation, or have a business idea, get in touch with our Basecamp Enterprise Team.
Getting a foot in the door: We use this expression when talking to students and graduates about their job search planning. If you are keen to work within a large corporate employer or public sector organisation, consider the following ways to ‘get that all-important foot in the door’:
- Applying for internships: Some of these are open to all students, not just penultimate-year cohorts.
- Registering with a graduate recruitment firm: These are often sector-specific and can offer temporary work.
- Volunteering: If you can, consider a period of volunteering. This can often lead to a paid role.
Next Steps:
Register now for our Get Hired Careers Fair, taking place at Bristol Beacon on Wednesday 19 March. You’ll get to meet employers spanning various sectors, offering direct hire opportunities.
Do pop in and see us. For resources and 1-1 support do get in touch with the Careers Service.