How to Get a Graduate Job After University: A Practical Guide for Recent Graduates

Graduating from university is a significant milestone, but it also brings a daunting new challenge: securing your first graduate job. With thousands of students leaving university each year and entering a competitive job market, standing out to employers requires more than just academic qualifications. If you've already graduated and are still searching, don't panic. Many graduates secure their first job several months (even a year) after leaving university. The key is to approach your job hunt strategically.

1. Understand What Employers Are Looking For

Employers hiring for graduate roles don't just want academic excellence. They're looking for a combination of:

• Soft skills (communication, teamwork, adaptability)
• Work experience (internships, part-time jobs, volunteering)
• Evidence of interest in the sector
• Professional presentation (especially your CV and cover letter)

Before you even apply for jobs, reflect on what roles actually suit your skills, personality, and goals. Use platforms such as Prospects.ac.uk or TargetJobs to explore what graduate roles exist in your field.

2. Build Your Professional Network

You don't need to wait for job adverts. Many roles are never publicly posted and are filled through networks or direct approaches. Build your LinkedIn profile, connect with alumni, attend industry events and join professional associations. Informational interviews. where you ask someone in your field about their job, can also lead to job leads and invaluable insight.

3. Gain Work Experience While You Search

Don't underestimate the value of temporary work, freelance projects, internships or volunteering. Even if not directly in your target field, they demonstrate responsibility, initiative and the ability to work in professional settings.

4. Tailor Every Application

Avoid the mistake of sending the same CV and cover letter to every employer. Instead, research each company and match your experience and skills to the job description. Employers can tell when an application is generic. A tailored application shows interest and effort.

The Importance of Using a Professional CV Writing Service

In the age of AI tools, it might be tempting to generate your CV and cover letters using platforms like ChatGPT. While AI can be helpful for brainstorming and structure, there are critical reasons why using a professional CV writing service is a far better option for serious job seekers:

1. Human Expertise Beats Automationn

Professional CV writers understand what employers want, how applicant tracking systems (ATS) work, and how to showcase your achievements in a compelling and relevant way. AI tools don't understand the nuances of your personal experiences or how to position them strategically.

2. Quality Over Quantity

AI tools often produce generic, templated content. A professional writer crafts a CV specifically for your industry, background and strengths, helping you stand out from hundreds of applicants with more polished and distinctive applications.

3. Tailored to Your Goals

A CV writing service will often include a consultation. This helps the writer understand your career goals, preferred roles and how to frame your experience in a way that aligns with employer expectations.

4. Fewer Mistakes, More Confidence

Small errors or poor formatting can cost you interviews. Professional services ensure your CV is error free, ATS optimised and visually consistent, boosting your confidence when applying.

Investing in a well-crafted CV is not just about looking professional; it's about opening doors and getting results.

40 of the Most Popular Universities in England (By Student Numbers)

Here are 40 universities in England with large student populations, making them among the most attended:

• University of Manchester
• University of Nottingham
• University of Leeds
• University of Birmingham
• University of Sheffield
• University of Liverpool
• Newcastle University
• University of Bristol
• University of Warwick
• University of Southampton
• University of Leicester
• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• University of York
• University of Exeter
• University of Kent
• University of Reading
• University of Surrey
• University of Sussex
• University of East Anglia
• University of Essex
• University of Lancaster
• University of Portsmouth
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Central Lancashire
• Manchester Metropolitan University
• Northumbria University
• Sheffield Hallam University
• Birmingham City University
• Nottingham Trent University
• De Montfort University
• University of Greenwich
• University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)
• Oxford Brookes University
• Kingston University
• University of Westminster
• University of Brighton
• University of Plymouth
• University of Lincoln
• University of Huddersfield

Final Thoughts

Getting a graduate job after university is rarely instant. It requires persistence, learning and adaptability. Equip yourself with the right tools: build your network, gain relevant experience and invest in a professionally written CV to maximise your chances. In a competitive market, the extra effort can make all the difference.

We have many years of experience in writing CVs and Cover Letters for graduates, that get results.

View our CV Writing Packages >