Job search tips graduates don’t usually hear

Job search tips graduates don’t usually hear

Don’t pigeonhole your job search

You might be currently searching for roles which closely match the subject you obtained your degree in. For example, you may feel that because you studied English Literature, you should be looking for writing or teaching jobs.

Meeting with a professional recruiter is a great way to kick-start your job search.  

However, this is not the case! Employers are increasingly interested in soft and transferable skills. In fact, adaptability is one of the most sought-after qualities for a candidate.

You may not have ever even thought of these skills before. To reveal these “hidden” qualities, you can use online aptitude tests, or even ask past employers and friends!

Don’t ignore temporary roles

The UK currently has the highest number of temporary workers in Europe, totalling over 1.6 million; or 5% of the workforce. The temporary job market offers a variety of opportunities to a recent graduate, such as:

  • Adding valuable experience to your CV: As temporary roles are usually short and have clearly defined tasks, you can use the transferable skills you have learned and apply them to future job applications.
     
  • Expanding your network: If you give a temporary role your all, you are likely to stick in your colleagues’ minds. This could lead to long lasting and valued connections, which also could potentially translate to a great permanent role!
     
  • Building your confidence: If you have never worked before, or are looking at new industries, a temporary assignment is sure to place you out of your comfort zone. You could find you love an industry you never even considered before! 

Upskill yourself

Job search tips graduates don’t usually hearAs a graduate who has spent the last few years dedicated to academia, you may not have had time to gain professional work experience.

Although employers may understand this, you can place yourself above the competition by increasing your skill set in innovative ways. Charities are always looking for volunteers in various industries and sectors, or you can hunt for short term internships which will give you valuable experience.

Another good way to show your passion is developing a blog relevant to your industry and interests. A blog at its core shows writing, social media and CMS knowledge, all of which can be added to your CV – along with providing context to your industry knowledge gained throughout university.     

Make use of Recruitment Agencies

Meeting with a professional recruiter is a great way to kick-start your job search. Recruiters have a wide network of clients with established relationships, meaning they can often get you in touch quickly with new and interesting roles.

Recruitment Consultants can also act as career mentors, which is reassuring if you’re feeling disheartened by the job search process. A consultant should provide you with advice and guidance - from submitting your CV, all the way to salary negotiations.

However, don’t just cross your fingers and pick any agency. 

Don’t compare yourself to your friends

The best tip is saved for last; do not compare yourself to your friends. Sure, we all have a couple of friends who are off working for global companies and going on exotic holidays, but most graduates feel exactly the same as you do now!

You will get there eventually, you just haven’t found the perfect opportunity yet. So, follow our tips, take care of yourself, and in no time, you will find yourself in the perfect role.

 

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like:
Benefits of becoming a Temp
How do you choose the best recruitment agency for you?

 

Published: 8 July 2024
© Copyright Just Recruitment Group Ltd 2024

Jobs currently available

CNC Punch Operator
Sector: Engineering and Manufacturing
Salary: Competitive
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913677
About the role

Just Recruitment is partnering with a growing engineering business based in Sudbury to recruit a CNC Punch Operator on a full-time permanent basis.

The key purpose of this role is to be responsible for setting and operating the punch machines. Previous experience is necessary, preferably with running Trumpf CNC machines.

Key duties include:

  • Ensuring that quality is the driving force behind all aspects of the role
  • Developing and implementing best working practice for better punching productivity
  • Optimising processes to improve efficiency and quality
  • Confident in delivering to a production schedule

Role requirements include:

  • Experienced background with sheet metal CNC punching
  • Familiarity with various sheet metal materials, including steel, aluminium and stainless steel
  • Ability to read engineering drawings
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams — this will extend to management
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with an operating background to join an exciting and ever-growing manufacturing company, offering further training and development.

Working hours are Monday to Thursday, 6.00am to 4.30pm or 6.00am to 5.00pm.

Free parking is available on-site.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
Plastic Vacuum Form Setter
Sector: Production and Stock Control
Salary: Competitive
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913676
About the role

Just Recruitment is partnering with a growing manufacturing company in Sudbury to recruit a full-time, permanent Plastic Vacuum Form Setter/Operator.

The key purpose of this role is to be responsible for setting and operating the plastic vacuum forming machine. You need to have previous experience, preferably running machines with tools up to 1.5 metres long.

Key duties include:

  • Ensuring that quality is the driving force behind all aspects of the role
  • Developing and implementing best working practice for better punching productivity
  • Optimising processes to improve efficiency, quality, and safety
  • Confident in delivering to a production schedule

Role requirements:

  • Experienced background working with vacuum forming machines
  • Familiarity with various plastic materials and thicknesses
  • Ability to read engineering drawings
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams — this will extend to management
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment

This is an excellent opportunity for you if you have a setting and operating background to join an exciting and ever-growing manufacturing company, offering further training and development.

Working hours are Monday to Thursday, 6.00am to 4.30pm or 6.30pm to 5.00pm.

Free parking is available on-site.

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
IT Executive
Sector: Information Technology
Salary: £35,000 per annum
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913675
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing, global manufacturing business, based on the outskirts of Sudbury, to recruit an IT Executive to join their team.

The key purpose of this role is to support IT operations within the manufacturing site, working closely with 3rd party IT providers and the global IT team. This role will support the growth of the business as it continues to ramp up production capacity.

Duties include:

  • Identify and proactively address IT service and infrastructure risks
  • Identify and implement innovative solutions to streamline day-to-day processes and keep up-to-date with new technologies
  • Manage vendors and internal customer service to agreed standards
  • Manage the replacement cycle as well as day-to-day maintenance of the IT network and infrastructure on-site, carrying out server management, maintenance and back-ups in line with best practice methodologies
  • Oversee IT projects to ensure that they meet business requirements and are actioned in a timely manner
  • Responsible for the support of all software packages within the business, including installation, training, upgrades, maintenance, licences and day-to-day user support
  • Maintain an asset register for all IT business assets (hardware and software)
  • Manage cybersecurity risks, working with the Global IT team as needed

Role requirements:

  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
  • Methodical approach to problem solving
  • Strong time management and prioritisation
  • Keen to learn and implement innovative solutions in the spirit of continuous improvement

Required qualifications and experience:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in IT or a similar subject
  • A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a similar or frontline IT role in a manufacturing environment
  • Strong hardware management skills (server control, networking)
  • Experience working with/implementation of Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC)

This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing business, offering a fabulous working location.

Hours for the role are 08.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday (with 1 hour lunch break) - you are required to be on-site Monday to Friday.

Due to the company’s location, you must have access to your own transport.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more
QA Assistant
Sector: Production and Stock Control
Salary: £28,000 per annum
Location: Sudbury
Role: Full Time
Contract: Permanent
Job ref: 913504
About the role

Just Recruitment is working with a growing manufacturing business on the outskirts of Sudbury to recruit a Quality Assistant to join their experienced, technically skilled team.

The key purpose of the role is to support the business with all quality-based duties as directed by the Quality Manager and wider management team.

Duties include:

  • Assist with setting up and operating a Quality Assurance laboratory to screen all incoming raw materials and finished products manufactured on-site.
  • Ensuring legislative safety requirements and specific customer practices are adhered to.
  • Continuous management and alignment to industry requirements.
  • Undertaking internal audits relating to GMP and finished product requirements.
  • Maintain traceability, hygiene, quality, and process records with validation of results, identification of trends, root cause analysis where applicable and instigation of corrective actions.
  • Work closely with third-party certification bodies for sustainability, religious and ethical obligations.
  • Carry out sampling and investigations for microbiological, allergen, nutritional or customer requirements.
  • Working with essential service providers such as Pest Control, Hygiene, and work wear providers.
  • Assist with new product/process trials.
  • Communicate effectively with all the departments across all levels.
  • Flexibility to carry out additional duties as deemed necessary by the business.

Qualifications and experience required:

  • Internal auditing experience.
  • Ability to use all IT-based packages.

You will be a team player, self-motivated and possess excellent attention to detail.

Working hours are from Monday to Friday - working a 3 shift rotating pattern, early, late and night shifts.

This role offers a competitive basic salary along with a shift allowance and is an excellent opportunity to grow and develop your career.

 

Just Recruitment acts as an employment agency for permanent roles.
The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

 

Read more