Graduate

Navigating Graduates on Their Job Hunt

Searching and applying for jobs after graduating from university can be challenging! Many don’t secure the first role they apply for and most will juggle multiple applications. A few won’t even know what they want to do next and some struggle to stay motivated with the process. But you are not alone…

I graduate from the University of Suffolk in 2021 with a BA hons History degree. I was not ‘that graduate’ who had his career path set in stone. My time at university had also been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, which meant 2/3 of my degree was spent online! When the time came to apply for jobs, I was nervous. I questioned whether I was good enough, became overwhelmed with the process and worried about rejection.  

After reflecting on what I knew I was good at, talking to people and building relationships, I applied for a Recruitment Consultant role at Marshall Wolfe – surprise I got the job – and it’s been the best decision yet! I was keen to use my own experience, and of many I witness around me, to help support graduates who often find themselves in similar positions. Sometimes they just need a bit of guidance.

At Marshall Wolfe we care about a fair process and aim to bring out the best version of our candidates to showcase to our clients. Recently, I returned to my university to speak with the Alumni and Relations development team about how we can form a partnership to support graduates with their careers after university. It has spurred on a conversation about how local businesses can help Universities and retain the graduate talent in the area.

My top tops for graduates on their job hunt right now are:

  • Persevere: The opportunities are endless. Remember to keep track of where you have applied to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
  • Adapt your approach: Review your application and tailor your CV to showcase the relevant skillset for the role.
  • Don’t take rejection personally: There is always room for improvement so ask for feedback and use it to improve for next time.
  • Stay motivated: You will get there. Try not to compare yourself to others, everyone’s experience is different.

By Josh Wiffen

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