Top Tips for Graduate Job Applications
No matter if you're a recent graduate or still a student, chances are you've heard of graduate schemes and graduate roles. These programmes can give you an excellent start to your career because you don't just get a job; you get access to valuable mentoring.
That kind of support is especially helpful when you're starting out. You will have a clear path to follow, making the transition from student to professional smoother.
You've possibly heard these positions are competitive. We'll be honest with you: they can be. However, that shouldn't put you off applying. If you plan and are strategic in your approach, you can put yourself in a strong position, regardless of what degree you studied.
In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to help you navigate the graduate job hunt with confidence and clarity.
Planning before starting
It's important to note that graduate roles are known to have very early closing deadlines. It's not always true, but it's common enough that you do need to be aware of it. That means you may need to start applying while still studying.
Don't worry if that sounds too overwhelming or if you've already graduated and are only now thinking about taking this route. Many roles are open to those applying within a few years of completing their degrees.
When planning your applications, keep the bigger picture in mind. It’s crucial to avoid wasting your time and energy on roles that would require you to relocate somewhere you don’t want to live, for example. (If it’s more about the cost than the location, some roles offer relocation support, so it’s definitely worth checking.)
Use social media to discover insights into the role and company culture from current employees. It’s a quick and effective way to get an initial feel for whether the role might be a good fit for you.
While this planning stage can feel like a lot of work, it will make for a more productive job hunt later on.
Types of graduate roles
Graduate schemes are structured programmes, often with training and rotations. These are usually offered by large employers.
Many graduates choose to apply for entry-level jobs. These can be in smaller businesses, charities, or even start-ups. Generally, these kinds of roles will be more flexible with the start date.
You should also consider whether a graduate internship or traineeship (especially common in the public sector) better fits your needs. Each path offers different experiences and opportunities for growth.
The key is to explore widely and find what best fits your goals, skills, and preferred working environment.
Tailoring your applications
You should be aiming to narrow down your search to 5-10 key roles that appeal to you, just like when you were searching for universities to apply to.
If you try to apply to too many at a time, you risk getting burned out or submitting lower-quality applications, as it's crucial to tailor every application. You'll need to ensure you are explaining how the skills you've developed through your degree are transferable to the role.
This can sometimes be quite easy if you're applying to a very specialist graduate scheme, but many roles are general and are open to all graduates, so require a lot more reflection on your skillset.
Organisations that often recruit graduates are interested in long-term growth. Ideally, they want you to build a career with them. For them, it's an investment.
You can show your potential by making it clear you've done your research on the role and how it relates not only to your experience but to your interests and what excites you.
You're not expected to walk in on day one and know everything. And while there will be ups and downs, your employer (and yourself) doesn’t want to see you bored within a month. That can be easily avoided by researching what the role really entails. If you do this, your applications will be much more compelling.
Track your applications (and don't let deadlines catch you out!)
We've mentioned that applications often close early, well before the intended start date.
Applications also involve several stages and the requirements for each will be slightly different, which can make the whole process feel overwhelming.
The last thing you want is to spend weeks perfecting an application, only to miss the deadline... That's why staying organised is key.
There are plenty of ways of tracking your applications. We have a few suggestions, but remember that the best one will always be the one you'll actually use. Work with your brain, not against it.
Pen and paper are a classic for a reason. It's simple to use, but its biggest downside is that you can't include links or attachments.
Spreadsheets are an excellent option and make it easy for you to retrieve information when you need it.
If you have time to set up tools like Notion or Trello, they can be excellent for visual learners.
You’ll also find pre-made templates online designed specifically for job hunters.
At a minimum, we recommend tracking:
- Company name and role
- Application deadline
- Submission date
- Application status (submitted, interview, rejected)
- Any follow-up notes, for example, you could set reminders on when to chase for an update but remember it's often normal to be sat waiting for a reply!
It’s also a good idea to save a screenshot or PDF of the job listing. It sometimes gets taken down after the application deadline.
Reviewing that description later can be really helpful if you’re invited to interview and want to revisit the role’s key details. The more you keep track of, the more in control you’ll feel. That can make a big difference during what can be a stressful process.
Make the most of your network
Many universities run regular career events or have links with local employers offering graduate schemes or graduate roles. It's definitely worth attending, even early on in your degree, as you might be putting yourself ahead of the game in terms of finding an internship that could make you stand out in future applications.
These events are a great way to speak directly with company representatives, ask informal questions, and get a feel for what employers are looking for. They can also help you understand the tone and language to use in applications.
Virtual events may feel less personal, but they’re flexible and low commitment, which is perfect if you’re exploring different industries or unsure what direction to take.
Beyond events, don’t overlook social media. Look up alumni or current employees on LinkedIn to see what paths others have taken. You can also find testimonials or day-in-the-life videos to get a sense of different roles and companies.
Be prepared for psychometric tests
Psychometric tests might not be everyone's favourite part of the application process, but it's important to be aware that they commonly feature in the early stages of many graduate role applications.
These tests often assess skills like verbal reasoning, numerical ability, and situational judgement. If you're not expecting them, they can be a real shock. It can feel like walking into an exam you haven't prepared for at all!
The good news is you can practice. There are plenty of free and paid resources online that offer mock tests. Familiarising yourself with the format can make a big difference to your confidence and performance.
If you have a disability or any accessibility needs that may affect how you take the tests, remember that you’re entitled to reasonable adjustments, and employers are legally required to provide them. Don’t hesitate to reach out early in the process to request the support you need.
Conclusion
The graduate application process can be long and sometimes frustrating. It might take weeks, or (perhaps more commonly) months, to hear back.
Sometimes you might not hear anything at all. This can feel disheartening, especially when you’ve put in a lot of effort. It’s natural to feel discouraged, but try not to take it personally.
Rejections happen to everyone at some point. The key is to keep going and stay resilient. Each application, interview, or rejection is a learning experience that brings you closer to the right opportunity.