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GRADUATE
SALARIES
2012
STARTING
YOUR OWN
BUSINESS
GETTING A JOB WITH C S
AREER12
SOCIAL MEDIA 0
GUIDE 2

YOUR ARTS DEGREE CAN GET YOU A JOB!
SKINS STAR AND ARTS EMERGENCY FOUNDER

JOSIE LONG
DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR ARTS DEGREE

Editor
James Thornhill 0207 7378 4904
james@bigchoicegroup.com
Assistant Editor
Lucy Miller
lucy@bigchoicegroup.com
Advertising Manager
Wesley Lawson 0207 7378 4913
wesley@bigchoicegroup.com
Designer
Sergio Maestro
sergio@bigchoicegroup.com

WELCOME TO THE NATIONAL STUDENT
Publisher
Big Choice Group

L CONTENTS
ast year we launched our first ever Careers Guide,
and it was a great success. At a time when the jobs
market is more competitive than ever we wanted to
give you guys a helping hand with some good advice Sector: Engineering...................................P8
and career opportunities.
Sector: Technology..................................P16
Thanks to our student journos (Jay
Crush, Alex Denby, Eno Efefiok and Job interviews............................................P20
Cara McGoogan) for their tireless
research uncovering what you need
Sector: Retail.............................................P30
to know about job hunting after Sector: Media..............................................P40
graduation.
CV Tips............................................................P48
We also asked a whole heap of careers experts for their
thoughts and tips on getting a job and I think you’ll Getting a job with social media..........P63
agree they have been more than helpful.
Sector: Law..................................................P67
This year’s guide covers everything from how to get Sector: Recruitment Consultancy....P80
your job, to what you might earn and also looked at
opportunities from some of the country’s top graduate Sector: Consulting..................................P89
employers.
Graduate Careers Directory
Hopefully the TNS Careers Guide 2013 is the helping
hand you need on route to getting your dream job!
The National Student - Careers Guide 2012 3

GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS

Graduate jobs market
student perception vs.
industry reality
by Alex Denby
At University of Durham

significant rise in starting salaries will be
very good news indeed to students”.

T
he Association of Graduate
Recruiters (AGR) is an Despite the continuing uncertainty in
organisation representing more both the UK economy and the Eurozone,
than 800 companies. It annually employers are also continuing to
surveys many of these employers for the invest in graduate talent, with only a
facts on graduate vacancies, making its 0.6% decrease in graduate vacancies
2012 Summer Survey one of the best in 2012– a figure originally estimated
places for graduates to discover the truth at 1.2% earlier this year. This points
about the current job market. to a stabilisation of the graduate jobs
market, which Gilleard describes as
The best news that graduates can take “encouraging”.
from the survey is the predicted 6%
increase in graduate starting salaries Also reassuring for graduates is the news
this year, raising the average to £26,500. that the number of applications per
This increase is even more appreciable vacancy is down 12% on last year, to 73.2
considering that it follows three (the first decrease of its kind in six years).
successive years of stagnation. Carl This figure highlights the continuing
Gilleard, AGR Chief Executive, says “the competitive nature of the graduate

4 The National Student - Careers Guide 2012

“
GRADUATE JOBS

job market, but shows an improving
The significant situation.

rise in starting Types of vacancies vary greatly within
salaries will companies, making some areas more
saturated by applicants than others.
be very good Research by High Fliers suggest that
news indeed to around three-fifths of employers have
vacancies in finance or IT, but with only
students.” 9% of vacancies in the media sector,
graduates will find it much tougher to get
a job there.


GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS
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GRADUATE JOBS

So what can graduates actually do to The GM report also notes that “graduate
boost their chances of filling a crucial recruiters have put more emphasis
graduate vacancy? on social media, training sessions,
university careers services and campus
It seems that the traditional drop-in sessions” this year. So, boost
requirements are still important your social media presence to employers
for many employers: 76% of AGR and make the most of opportunities on
companies said their selection criteria campus to ensure maximum exposure
for graduate jobs included a minimum and your chance of landing a job.
2.1 standard. Less than a fifth said this
restriction was loosened to graduates In terms of where these jobs are, London
with a 2.2. is still the place to be: nearly 40% of
all graduate vacancies are situated in
As expected leading employers highlight the capital. Although this is a slight
the importance of work experience, with decrease on last year, more than half of
36% of them saying they fill vacancies all vacancies are located in London or
with graduates who have already the South East, showing their continued
worked for them, according to High importance to employers.
Fliers’ Graduate Market (GM) report.
This figure is highest in the sectors of Basically, the reality for graduates
investment banking (71%), law (51%) entering the market is rather
and media (49%). encouraging. Starting salaries have
increased significantly and the number
These statistics demonstrate how of vacancies is relatively constant. As
valuable employers consider work one employer says, “we are seeing an
placements and internships. More increase in the work we are doing so
than half the employers surveyed in the there’s a drive to get more [graduates]
GM report said it was either highly or in”.
completely unlikely they would offer a
job to an applicant without any work So what key message can you take from
experience whatsoever. Of those who did all this? Employers are still keen to take
gain some form of work placement of on the best graduates and it is important
internship, 30% were recruited by their to let them see your skills. There is a job
employer. The facts show that, more out there for you.
than ever, placements and internships
always offer job-hunters an advantage.


ENGINEERING
INTERVIEW

Women in
ENGINEERING


ENGINEERING

Although the last few decades have seen a
great improvement in gender ratios in the work
by Cara McGoogan
At University of Nottingham

place, there are still industries which suffer
from a significant lack of female employees.
Despite improvements, the engineering industry
has a long way to go.

same number applying to the proportion

B
ut as an industry the engineering of registered female engineers.
sector has been making
significant moves to rectify This is seen in WiSET’s assertion
this situation. For example, that women experience a “severe lack
the careers group Women in Science, of confidence” when they enter the
Engineering and Technology (WiSET) industry because of the lack of other
has been looking at the lack of women in women around them, leading to even
the engineering sector. less women working as engineers than
studying the subject at university level.
In an industry which has maintained Yet women shouldn’t see this imbalance
increasing success during the recession, as a deterrent but should seize the
with an ever-expanding repertoire of job benefits it offers them.
opportunities, WiSET’s work is of utter
importance in bringing women into this Changing Face
successful sphere. The positive action which is being taken
to encourage women to enter the sector
A Male Dominated World should be exploited by women interested
Unfortunately, its recent study ‘The in this area. There are opportunities
Changing Face of Engineering’ found being created for women which aren’t
that the proportion of female students as easily accessible in other areas of the
on engineering courses has remained at working world. The sector is handing
about one in six for a number of years. out valuable work experience, creating
increased support networks, employer
They also found that just 3% of all engi- awareness and a changing approach
neering apprentices are female, with the

ENGINEERING
INTERVIEW
Give a career in engineering a
serious consideration!
to the curriculum which hopes for it to The ability the area of engineering
become seated in its practical context, has to remain a place of growth and
making it a more interactive course to development in our current economic
study. climate affords many opportunities
which shouldn’t be overlooked. With
WiSET have a two-fold approach to almost 200 different areas of expertise,
encouraging women into engineering, from environmental to structural to
both at pre-university and postgraduate medical engineering, the sector is
levels. constantly looking for new, diverse talent
and this especially includes women.
They are currently working at Sheffield
Hallam University under the Athena With a highly successful, important
SWAN Award which was launched and wealthy field after your talent, it
in 2005 and is committed to working would be unwise to pass on such an
with universities with regards to the opportunity. Give a career in engineering
advancement of women in Science, a serious consideration!
Engineering, Maths and Medicine

“
(STEMM). 79 universities are currently
signed up to the award, a list of which
can be found here: http://www.
athenaswan.org.uk/html/athena-swan/
membership/members-list/ . These top
universities are committed to teaching the recently
passionate and gifted budding female
engineers. recognised
challenges of
After graduation, this successful climate change may
industry is also looking to recruiting
offer engineering
more women, encouraging engineering
graduates to put their skills in to practice
in the working world. As WiSET’s
report notes, “the recently recognised
challenges of climate change may offer
engineering a significant opportunity to
a significant
opportunity to draw in
more women
“
draw in more women”.

ENGINEERING

Although the last few decades have seen a
great improvement in gender ratios in the work
by Cara McGoogan
At University of Nottingham

place, there are still industries which suffer
from a significant lack of female employees.
Despite improvements, the engineering industry
has a long way to go.

same number applying to the proportion

B
ut as an industry the engineering of registered female engineers.
sector has been making
significant moves to rectify This is seen in WiSET’s assertion
this situation. For example, that women experience a “severe lack
the careers group Women in Science, of confidence” when they enter the
Engineering and Technology (WiSET) industry because of the lack of other
has been looking at the lack of women in women around them, leading to even
the engineering sector. less women working as engineers than
studying the subject at university level.
In an industry which has maintained an Yet women shouldn’t see this imbalance
increasing success during the recession, as a deterrent but should seize the
with an ever-expanding repertoire of job benefits it offers them.
opportunities, WiSET’s work is of utter
importance in bringing women into this Changing Face
successful sphere. The positive action which is being taken
to encourage women to enter the sector
A Male Dominated World should be exploited by women interested
Unfortunately, its recent study ‘The in this area. There are opportunities
Changing Face of Engineering’ found being created for women which aren’t
that the proportion of female students as easily accessible in other areas of the
on engineering courses has remained at working world. The sector is handing
about one in six for a number of years. out valuable work experience, creating
increased support networks, employer
They also found that just 3% of all engi- awareness and a changing approach
neering apprentices are female, with the

ENGINEERING
INTERVIEW
Give a career in engineering a
serious consideration!
to the curriculum which hopes for it to The ability the area of engineering
become seated in its practical context, has to remain a place of growth and
making it a more interactive course to development in our current economic
study. climate affords many opportunities
which shouldn’t be overlooked. With
WiSET have a two-fold approach to almost 200 different areas of expertise,
encouraging women into engineering, from environmental to structural to
both at pre-university and postgraduate medical engineering, the sector is
levels. constantly looking for new, diverse talent
and this especially includes women.
They are currently working at Sheffield
Hallam University under the Athena With a highly successful, important
SWAN Award which was launched and wealthy field after your talent, it
in 2005 and is committed to working would be unwise to pass on such an
with universities with regards to the opportunity. Give a career in engineering
advancement of women in Science, a serious consideration!
Engineering, Maths and Medicine

“
(STEMM). 79 universities are currently
signed up to the award, a list of which
can be found here: http://www.
athenaswan.org.uk/html/athena-swan/
membership/members-list/ . These top
universities are committed to teaching the recently
passionate and gifted budding female
engineers. recognised
challenges of
After graduation, this successful
industry is also looking to recruiting
climate change may
offer engineering
more women, encouraging engineering
graduates to put their skills to practice
in the working world. As WiSET’s
report notes, “the recently recognised
challenges of climate change may offer
engineering a significant opportunity to
a significant
opportunity to draw in
more women
“
draw in more women”.

“It’s fascinating to work
for a company that has
such a critical role in
moving the UK towards a
sustainable energy future.”
Erin Johnson,
Project Engineer

Graduate Development Programme – starting salary of £25,600 and £26,600 pa
Student Programmes – starting salaries of £12,500 to £15,600 pa
Engineer Training Programme – starting salary of £23,500 pa
Advanced Apprenticeship Programme – starting salary of £14,950 pa
National Grid’s role is to connect people to the energy they increasing population, changing economic times and ageing
use. Society relies on having energy at its finger tips: it is power plants will be unprecedented. This presents individuals
built on it and National Grid owns and manages the systems with a tremendous opportunity to work with the latest
to which many different energy sources are connected. technology and ensure we have energy networks that will
In Britain we run systems that deliver gas and electricity meet the future challenges. You can be at the heart of one of
across the entire country. In the North Eastern states of the the greatest engineering challenges facing society; the creation
US, we provide power directly to millions of customers. of new sustainable energy solutions for the future.
Holding a vital position at the centre of the energy system,
At National Grid we’re passionate about our “grow our own
National Grid join’s everything up.
strategy” and our suite of GCSE to degree level career path
The energy market will dramatically change between development programmes. It’s little wonder that they are
now and 2015 and National Grid will play a vital role in recognised for excellence and innovation – after all, we’ve
connecting new sources of energy generation. The transition been running some for well over 20 years – so they are some
to a low carbon economy is set against a background of of the best you’ll find anywhere.

Please visit our website to find out more
and to apply.
www.nationalgridcareers.com/ The National Student - Careers Guide 2012 11
Development-Opportunities

We’re looking for the mis

Transnational Graduate D
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e, Supportability, Microwave, Industrial and Production), Operations,
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ree?
ab of our website.


ENGINEERING
INTERVIEW

s About

0
hing

1
T
Engineering
ies for
ffer op portunit
y com panies o seas.
5. Man ow ork over uates
with new ineers t ing grad
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and, eng ngineer in six
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. Engin
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cruits n are in fu ing. lary is
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retiri gineer month ate sta
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2. Onl y 7% of str y is tryin 7. The ,000. ar in
en. The indu pplica nts und £25 ffer a ye
are wom female a
aro urses o
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work
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encoura emes su
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leading o encourage ence. lmost 20
mes t ctor. experi s for a
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areer f sector
con sider a c ren t types o 9. The P. ering
are m any diffe al, civ il, the UK’s GD AGR th e engine
3 . There as , chemic nd ding to the duate
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U g 3 mil lion peo
4. The mployin
,e
industry


ENGINEERING

g

FIND OUT MORE
ABOUT
ENGINEERING


TECHNOLOGY
INTERVIEW

FIND OUT MORE
ABOUT
TECHNOLOGY

TECHNOLOGY

10 Things About

TECHNOLOGY in Euro pe, worth
£58
gest ICT markets
e of the lar urope
1. The UK has on l skills base in E
hnologica o the
billion a ye ar
ongest tec rket co uld lead t
K also h as the str own th at the ma
2. The U Micros oft has sh re an
3. Res earch by ew job s by 2013 onomy will requi
of 78,200 n ed that the UK ec
creation s predict y year
y ha nals ever e UK,
4. Anot her stud ew IT professio compa nies in th
f 110,500 n cialist software
average o 0,000 spe
over 10 s egree
5. T here are ajor g lobal firm job, an d many d
includin g all the m vital to getting a
rience is his
cal e xpe ry to achieve t me comp
anies
6. Pract
i n indust offers in
the sa
ses offe r a year i ad to job asingly c
omplex,
cour ents le n incre
e se placem tial, but in a edge
7. 70% of th tudy is not essen ould giv e you the d the
raduate s arket it c sed in London an
8. Postg d compet
itive m
% are ba
, an , but 44
changing ho ut the UK th of
xist throug oad, an d the Nor
9. Jobs e nities abr
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t pportu
e are m any job o ng.
10. How ever ther y secto r is growi
technolog
England’s


Employer Profile
“From the second I walked through the doors I knew I was part
Factfile of something special. To work for an organisation where drive
and motivation comes not from money, but from the opportunity
Degree disciplines/ to do extraordinary things for my country gives me an immense
degree class required
sense of achievement.” Aled, Cyber Security Specialist
Most considered but we have
specific roles for IT, Computer
Science, Research & Development, GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters) is one of the UK’s
Engineering, Mathematics, intelligence and security agencies. We play a critical role in countering threats
Physics, Languages, Internet against the UK. Terrorism, espionage and warfare all need to be tackled, but
and Information Science. increasingly we are turning our attention to the alarming growth in internet based
The requirements change ‘cyber’ attacks. Understanding the threats and exploiting opportunities in cyber
depending on the job role, so space is fundamental to our mission.
the class of degree varies from Focusing on the collection of foreign electronic material (or ‘signals intelligence’
a minimum of a 2.1 or a 2.2
as we call it) we provide information to a number of government departments,
law enforcement agencies and the military, to help safeguard UK interests.
Number of employees
In conjunction we seek to protect and secure information on Government IT
5,500
and communications systems by providing best practice ‘information assurance’
advice to help combat hackers and other threats.
Number of graduate vacancies
per year Recruiting graduates from various disciplines (though predominantly languages,
c.200 science, technology, engineering and mathematics) we offer truly unique
opportunities. So if you want to join an environment where you can REALLY
Placements/internships make a difference (not just pay lip-service to it) then look no further. We also
available offer technical sponsorships/placements, with applications accepted in the
Student Sponsorship Scheme, autumn of each year.
please see the sponsorships page Our recruitment campaigns run throughout the year. Please note, due to the
on our website for further details sensitive nature of our work, applicants must be British citizens.

Work locations
99 per cent of our graduates are
based at our HQ in Cheltenham,
Gloucestershire.

Salary and benefits
c.£25,400 plus substantial
benefits including flexible working

Application procedure
Please apply online at
www.gchq-careers.co.uk

Deadline
Varies by function; please visit our
website for specific closing dates

Contact details
Graduate enquiries email address:
recruitment@gchq.gsi.gov.uk

www.gchq-careers.co.uk

explore another world

You recognise them.
Now find out what they really mean.

As one of the UK’s intelligence agencies, we gather information to help combat
the cyber criminals and terrorists threatening our nation’s security. Right now,
we’re looking for cyber security, information assurance, software engineering and
development and other technical specialists. We need foreign language analysts
and mathematicians too. So join our mission and, whichever role you’re in, you’ll
find new ways to use and grow your expertise.

See what else it could mean for you at www.gchq-careers.co.uk

Applicants must be British citizens. GCHQ values diversity and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community.
We want our workforce to reflect the diversity of our work.

5 tips for standing out in a
job interview
So you’ve worked hard
and won that all-important
interview, it can be easy to
think the hard work is over and
relax. In fact the important
part of the application process
is still ahead of you.


I
n a competitive job market, you’re Dress to show that you take pride
not going to get every job that you in yourself, that you understand the
apply for, so whatever happens, environment you’ll be working in and
use it as an opportunity to learn that you’ve actually made an effort.
and improve yourself with some good When the interview opens the door,
experience and feedback. all of these positive points will be
communicate within a couple of seconds
It’s important to keep it simple and without you having to say a word.
stay focused, so we asked Paul Boross
author of The Pocket Pitching Bible for Practice
his top five tips for interview success. You should know what questions to
expect from the interviewer, and every
Preparation question they ask is carefully crafted to
What do you know about the company get the information they need.
you’ve applied to or the person who is
interviewing you? Don’t think that you can ‘wing it’ and
make it up as you go along, because you
With tools like Google and LinkedIn, can be sure that no interviewer wants to
you have no excuse for going into hire someone who does that. If there are
the interview unprepared. When the holes in your CV, don’t hope for the best,
interviewer asks, “What do you know ask yourself challenging questions and
about us?”, they’re not just being polite, practice your answers.
they’re checking to see if you’ve done
your homework. If you fall short in some areas,
demonstrate your willingness to learn
Appearance and take on a challenge. If there are gaps
What’s your attitude to dressing for the in your employment, show that you were
interview? Are you dressing to impress? still doing something useful with your
To make a personal statement? To time.
express your individuality?
Desire
If so, go back to your wardrobe If you were interviewing people for a
and start again, asking yourself the job, who would you rather employ –
question, is how you look really more someone who acted like they couldn’t
important than getting the job? care less or someone who really seemed
to want the job?


If you want the job, and I’m presuming
that you do because you applied for it,
then don’t be afraid to show it. And when
the interviewer asks, at the end, if you
have any questions, don’t be afraid to
say, “Yes – Do I get the job?”

Follow up
A good interviewer will take notes and
make a considered decision, but you
can’t rely on everyone to be as organised.
As soon as you get home from the
interview, write a follow-up letter and
put it in the post the same day, or drop
it in at reception if you live nearby. In
the letter, thank the interviewer for their
time, outline the main reasons why
you’re the right candidate and once again
emphasise how much you’d like to be
given the job.

“ In a competitive job market, you’re not
going to get every job that you apply for, so
whatever happens, use it as an opportunity
to learn and improve yourself with some
“
good experience and feedback.

I
n a competitive job market, you’re Dress to show that you take pride
not going to get every job that you in yourself, that you understand the
apply for, so whatever happens, environment you’ll be working in and
use it as an opportunity to learn that you’ve actually made an effort.
and improve yourself with some good When the interview opens the door,
experience and feedback. all of these positive points will be
communicate within a couple of seconds
It’s important to keep it simple and without you having to say a word.
stay focused, so we asked Paul Boross
author of The Pocket Pitching Bible for Practice
his top five tips for interview success. You should know what questions to
expect from the interviewer, and every
Preparation question they ask is carefully crafted the
What do you know about the company get the information they need.
you’ve applied to or the person who is
interviewing you? Don’t think that you can ‘wing it’ and
make it up as you go along, because you
With tools like Google and LinkedIn, can be sure that no interviewer wants to
you have no excuse for going into hire someone who does that. If there are
the interview unprepared. When the holes in your CV, don’t hope for the best,
interviewer asks, “What do you know ask yourself challenging questions and
about us?”, they’re not just being polite, practice your answers.
they’re checking to see if you’ve done
your homework. If you fall short in some areas,
demonstrate your willingness to learn
Appearance and take on a challenge. If there are gaps
What’s your attitude to dressing for the in your employment, show that you were
interview? Are you dressing to impress? still doing something useful with your
To make a personal statement? To time.
express your individuality?
Desire
If so, go back to your wardrobe If you were interviewing people for a
and start again, asking yourself the job, who would you rather employ –
question, is how you look really more someone who acted like they couldn’t
important than getting the job? care less or someone who really seemed
to want the job?


If you want the job, and I’m presuming
that you do because you applied for it,
then don’t be afraid to show it. And when
the interviewer asks, at the end, if you
have any questions, don’t be afraid to
say, “Yes – Do I get the job?”

Follow up
A good interviewer will take notes
and make a considered decision, but
you can’t reply on everyone to be as
organised. As soon as you get home from
the interview, write a follow-up letter
and put it in the post the same day, or
drop it in at reception if you live nearby.
In the letter, thank the interviewer for
their time, outline the main reasons why
you’re the right candidate and once again
emphasise how much you’d like to be
given the job.

“ In a competitive job market, you’re not
going to get every job that you apply for, so
whatever happens, use it as an opportunity
to learn and improve yourself with some
“
good experience and feedback.

If you get the job, congratulations! But if
not, don’t be put off. Call the interviewer
and ask them for five minutes feedback
on where you went wrong. It’s nothing
personal, there was just someone else
who was a better fit for their criteria.

But by showing a genuine interest in
your development, you achieve two
valuable things; firstly, you improve
your chances of getting the next job, and
secondly, you create a good impression
with the interviewer who will remember
you for the next position that comes up.


“
Josie Long
INTERVIEW

It is a joke to think that society
doesn’t function better with people
with lots of arts skills in it.
“
by James Thornhill

TNS sat down with writer, comedian and founder of
the Arts Emergency charity, Josie Long, to discuss
the importance of your arts degree and why it is
perfect for getting you the job you want.
Arts degrees can be seen as a bit regular appearances on TV and radio
wishy-washy. How exactly can drawing and is currently working on a crowd-
a few pictures or making the odd short sourced short-film project.
film be a worthwhile pursuit?
The reality is that arts degrees (which TNS and Josie Long met to discuss
also cover the whole range of humanities exactly why you shouldn’t listen to the
based courses) feed into just about doom-mongers about your arts degree.
everything that you watch, read, hear In recent years, BAs have been under
and enjoy. People with arts degrees are, attack as ‘Mickey Mouse’ degrees and not
paramount to informing, educating and worthwhile for getting a job or for the
entertaining everyone in society. economy. Josie is clear about how wrong
If there is one person that is passionate this is.
about how important art degrees are
it is Josie Long. You might recognise “I want to say to those people, Do you
her as the careers advisor in Skins, but ever watch films or TV? Do you ever read
this is just one arty-venture she has anything? Do you like any pictures? Do
been involved with. Making her name you basically like anything? Do you read
as a stand-up comedian, she has made a newspaper or a lifestyle magazine?

WANTED INDEPENDENT AND FREE

TNS TNS
WRITERS www.thenationalstudent.com

TNS IS LOOKING
FOR WRITERS ON
YOUR CAMPUS
involved with TNS and join the ranks
Get involved with TNS and join the ranks
past writers who have gone on to work
of past writers who have gone on to work
for people like the BBC, NME, Heat and the
BBC, NME, Heat and the
Guardian.
Guardian.

hands on amazing work experience,
Get your hands on amazing work experience,
opportunities and freebies.
opprotunites and freebies.

To find out more and to apply online click Here
The National Student – Freshers 2011 7

INTERVIEW

The government doesn’t
value your arts degree
and the perception is it
won’t get you a job! This
fact couldn’t be further
from the truth.


INTERVIEW

every night. I had no financial support, There are jobs out there for people with
from the age of 18 I didn’t stay a day with arts degrees, and they are degrees worth
my parents because I couldn’t. I never protecting. Don’t let people tell you
took any money from anyone, all I did otherwise, and be confident in what your
was share a flat with friends somewhere degree has done for you.
horrible, pay my rent through temping,
and then arse off the whole time gigging.
My first year of stand-up I made
something like two grand for the whole
year.”

So, despite what you might be told your
degree and the skills you now have
are important to you and for doing a
whole range of important jobs. A BA is a
massive plus to your CV.

Which is why Josie set up the charity
Arts Emergency (read more about its
formation here) to combat what they see
as the removal of support for arts-based
learning at our universities.

Long explains why they set up the
charity, “Because it really does feel
like an emergency when it comes to
arts funding at university level. When
You can find out more about Arts
they cut the block grant that funds arts Emergency HERE
and humanities degrees they totally Josie Long is currently involved in a
took away the funding for that, so now crowd-sourced, short-film project
universities are scrambling around, they http://www.sponsume.com/project/
have to charge £9,000 fees because they romance-and-adventure and will
have effectively lost all funding from be out on tour throughout October,
the government. They have effectively November and December - http://
stealth privatised BAs.” www.josielong.com/gigs.htm

INTERVIEW

“ You have to
do what yo really want to
appreciateu want to do and
or three ye that it might take t
will build upars to build up. But wo
help but lea because you can’ it
more confi rn things, you get t
establisheddent, you get more
at what you and you get better
do
“

INTERVIEW

Because all of those things need to be Josie adds that her English degree
made by people who need to be trained turned her into a ‘perpetual student, in
how to do them. It is a joke to think the best way possible’ with her always
that society doesn’t function better with researching and wanting to learn new
people with lots of arts skills in it.” things, gives her inspiration and new
“A massive part of the UK economy, our things to use in her work. “At the very
exports, are cultural exports. It makes least it gives you the skills to negotiate
loads and loads of money for the UK the world in a more interesting way,
it is what we were and are known for - and probably a happier way. Well, more
our music and our art and all that stuff. interesting definitely, you might just be a
Financially it is very useful.” miserable person!”

Aside from the obvious arts and media But getting to where you want in the arts
based careers, many BA degrees industry is not going to be an easy ride,
(especially ones such as philosophy, you need to accept that work experience
history and English) can tool you up with and working your way up through the
desirable skills for many industries. As ranks is all part of the process.
Josie explains, “Creative thinking and “You have to really want to do what you
critical thinking which is what you get want to do and appreciate that it might
from arts and humanities is massively take two or three years to build up. But it
important. Even in business they are will build up because you can’t help but
very important, they’re soft skills, they learn things, you get more confident, you
are entrepreneurial skills which is what get more established and you get better
people love. at what you do.”

They teach you autonomy, they Josie herself didn’t step straight from uni
teach you all sorts of things that are to being a top comedian, and highlights
transferable skills and very marketable the importance of following your
skills. It’s good to learn something like dreams.
philosophy because you can read things
really critically and analyse peoples “For me with stand-up, it was a slightly
arguments and points really well, those different economy because I came out of
things are really important for really dry, university in 2003, before the financial
high-end things.” crash, so what I did was temping in really
soul-destroying jobs and just gigging


INTERVIEW

every night. I had no financial support, There are jobs out there for people with
from the age of 18 I didn’t stay a day with arts degrees, and they are degrees worth
my parents because I couldn’t. I never protecting. Don’t let people tell you
took any money from anyone, all I did otherwise, and be confident in what your
was share a flat with friends somewhere degree has done for you.
horrible, pay my rent through temping,
and then arse off the whole time gigging.
My first year of stand-up I made
something like two grand for the whole
year.”

So, despite what you might be told your
degree and the skills you now have
are important to you and for doing a
whole range of important jobs. A BA is a
massive plus to your CV.

Which is why Josie set up the charity
Arts Emergency (read more about its
formation here) to combat what they see
as the removal of support for arts-based
learning at our universities.

Long explains why they set up the
charity, “Because it really does feel
like an emergency when it comes to
arts funding at university level. When
You can find out more about Arts
they cut the block grant that funds arts Emergency HERE
and humanities degrees they totally Josie Long is currently involved in a
took away the funding for that, so now crowd-sourced, short-film project
universities are scrambling around, they http://www.sponsume.com/project/
have to charge $9,00 fees because they romance-and-adventure and will
have effectively lost all funding from be out on tour throughout October,
the government. They have effectively November and December - http://
stealth privatised BAs.” www.josielong.com/gigs.htm

WANTED INDEPENDENT AND FREE

TNS TNS
WRITERS www.thenationalstudent.com

TNS IS LOOKING
FOR WRITERS ON
YOUR CAMPUS
Get involved with TNS and join the ranks
of past writers who have gone on to work
for people like the BBC, NME, Heat and the
Guardian.

Get your hands on amazing work experience,
opprotunites and freebies.

To find out more and to apply online click Here
The National Student – Freshers 2011 7

RETAIL
INTERVIEW

Special offers for graduates!

What does high-volume
retailing in the 21st century
mean to you?

I
t’s something that Lidl had already electrical goods of all sorts, housewares,
recognised when they brought their exotic imports… in fact it’s the original
unique brand to this country nearly Lidl model that now prevails.
20 years ago. Their philosophy of
everyday top quality products at the Regular customers of Lidl will now
lowest possible price was a challenge happily buy new and unfamiliar brands
to the status quo in a sector that had because they trust Lidl and know that
polarised into either high quality, high nothing goes on their shelves without
prices at one end and “pile ’em high, quality approval. Month by month the
sell ‘em cheap” at the other. Lidl offered range is refreshed as new products are
something quite different and shook up introduced and others take a break. This
the market from the start. makes every visit to a Lidl store a journey
of discovery. It was the Lidl philosophy
Fast-forward to 2012. The Lidl that saw it through times of economic
philosophy has stood the test of time. tribulation and set the bar at delivery of
They say imitation is the sincerest form high quality at lower prices.
of flattery and it takes only a cursory
look along the shelves of the biggest So, then, how has all this impacted
UK retailers to see the influence of upon Lidl’s intake of graduates in recent
Lidl. Stores that were once exclusively years? In the ultra-competitive world
food stores are now heavily featuring of graduate recruitment it’s always

RETAIL

Ever changing, ever evolving, it’s like a
mirror to society, revealing the nation’s
needs and preferences. The major
retailers are now so in tune with their
customers that every visit to a store
reveals new ranges, new emphasis
and fresh ideas to meet the changing
requirements of the customer base.

been the case that the most visible
consumer brands are naturally the
ones that get most attention because of
that very familiarity. The retail sector
is no exception. In fact the sector itself
is becoming increasingly attractive
to graduates with the perceived
sophistication and innovation of large
scale operations.

Lidl’s higher profile has allowed it to
join the group of major UK retailers
and created a growing recognition of
its appeal as an employer of choice. Its
popularity soared as visibility increased.

The tendency among young people to
shop where their parents shop has seen
a spin-off benefit as positivity towards
Lidl among students and graduates has
grown.


“
RETAIL
INTERVIEW

With over 590 stores and still rapidly
expanding throughout the UK, Lidl are
as committed to their people as they
are to their customers

Supported by ambitious and well Accolades are important but so are
structured resources, the last four continuous improvements in the range
years have seen Lidl steadily rise in the of programmes available. With a focus
rankings of the Times Top 100 Graduate on employee engagement, Lidl are
Employers to number 32, and shows no committed to retaining and developing
sign of faltering. The Guardian UK 300 talent for future leadership. Those
is the largest and most comprehensive who know Lidl see the company going
annual survey of student opinion on from strength to strength and previous
graduate careers and employers and placement candidates are now vocal
has raised Lidl’s ranking within the advocates for Lidl. With over 590 stores
Retail Sector from a healthy 25th to and still rapidly expanding throughout
an impressive 9th in their 2012/13 list. the UK, Lidl are as committed to their
Even the National Council for Work people as they are to their customers
Experience last year gave Lidl the award and put their success down to the quality
for ‘work placement of the year 2010/11’ and hard work of those who work
for long term placements employing with them…. outstanding, committed
less than 20 students (4-12 months) in individuals.
companies of over 250 employees.

However, there’s no room for
complacency in the world of Lidl. Having
successfully broken down a host of
misconceptions as a new retailer, their
outstanding,
current popularity is a testament to their
resilience and their ability to attract high committed
individuals.
quality talent.

RETAIL


Anything but
ordinary.


Quality products. Quality people.

There’s nothing ordinary about
our graduate opportunities…
OR OUR GRADUATES!

Graduate Area Management Programme
LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE
Starting on £33k pa, with the potential to earn up to £53k pa,
plus car + benefits
Are you ready to manage? Are you anything but ordinary?

If you can lead and inspire as part of a team, take the next step now towards
running multiple stores with a world-class retailer.

Our fast-track programme into Area Management is for outstanding, self-confident
individuals, who can make a significant difference to our business from day one.
There is a steep learning curve and we’ll give you the chance to take early
responsibility of a district of up to five stores.

To apply online please visit www.lidlgraduatecareers.co.uk

www.lidl.co.uk

RETAIL
INTERVIEW

10Retail
Things About

1. 29% of all recent graduates working in management roles are working in
retail.
2. The internet accounts for £27 billion of retail sales, that’s 9%.
3. In 2011 there were 284,490 retail outlets in the UK, in addition to the 150,000
UK online retailers.
4. In 2011 UK retail sales were over £303 billion, the third highest in the world.
5. One in ten of those in employment in the UK work in retail, the highest
proportion of private sector employment.
6. Retail related degrees are available, they may be helpful but they are not
essential to succeed in the sector.
7. The average graduate starting salary is £23,000. But some big players in
the industry are amongst the best payers of graduates with Lidl paying their
Graduate Area Managers £33,000 with an increase of up to £53,000.
8. Graduate schemes offered by the big retailers are very competitive and so
most require a 2.2 at a minimum.
9. There is a variety of work in retail, including buying, merchandising, design,
marketing and more!
10. The retail sector is still creating more new jobs than any other sector.

FIND OUT MORE
ABOUT
RETAIL

Sound too good to be true? Well it isn’t
isit:
Market Force is looking for students just like you to take G et paid to v
part in a number of mystery shopping programmes all
over the UK. • Local Pubs
From going to pubs and restaurants, shopping on the ts
high street to placing bets at the local bookies, mystery • Restauran
ps
• Coffee Sho
shopping is a great way to earn extra cash quickly
and easily.
St Stores
All you need to do is provide an honest appraisal • Major High
of your experience. ops
• Betting Sh
And the best bit....
• Nightclubs
Not only will you get paid a fee, often ranging between
£5-£15, you will also be reimbursed for any purchases • Cinema’s
you may have to make. And the visits are flexible around
studying and your social life.

How to register?
Simply visit: http://uk.marketforce.com/tns

37
http://uk.marketforce.com/tns - Careers Guide 2012
The National Student
Lead with
inteLLigen
ce

GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS

Graduate salaries
what’s the reality?
DO YOU EXPECT TO
by Alex Denby

HOW MUCH
At University of Durham

EARN AFTER YOU GRADUATE?

A
survey of students by the Big natural given the economic downturn
Choice found that 31% of students and constant reports of unemployment,
expect their starting salary to be especially among young people.
£20,000-£24,000. Some are a
little more modest – just under a fifth So why are graduate salaries so much
anticipate earning less than £15,000 as better than students believe they will be?
starting salary – while an ambitious 6% It comes down to market competition,
expect to start on more than £30,000 a with firms desperate to land the most
year. So who’s right? talented employees. “The executive
wanted us to be a real player and wanted
In reality, it seems that graduate to make the salary a more meaningful
expectations are rather reserved: a proposition”, said one recruiter. Another
survey by the Association of Graduate employer agreed: “firms need to be
Recruiters (AGR), which represents more competitive to attract the best
hundreds of companies, suggests that graduates”.
the average graduate salary this year is
£26,500, up 6% on last year. High Fliers findings show that graduate’s
long-term expectations are more
Research of leading employers, ambitious. After five years in work,
conducted by High Fliers, suggests today’s graduates expect to be earning an
graduates can expect to earn an even average of £39,900, which – according
more impressive £29,000 on average. to AGR – is only £500 more per year
than the figure graduates recruited five
It appears that many graduates have years ago actually earn.
very modest expectations, which is only

GRADUATE CASE STUDY

Nomfundo
Sarah Msomi

I
always imagined I’d live and work brochure caught my eye and I knew I
in different parts of the world, wanted to be a Fellow.
although it seemed like a long
shot in the township where I was Internet Scholar Ethan Zuckerman once
born and raised. With a background described ‘bridge figures’ as people who
in International Development, and find themselves at the intersection of
having worked for various charities and disparate cultures and communities,
NGOs, I might seem like an unlikely fit poised to use their unique placement
for marketing. But that’s one of the key to facilitate meaningful connections
strengths of the WPP Fellowship and between people. This is how I interpret
the type of applicants it attracts. You’ll what the Fellowship has allowed me to
often hear a Fellow say, ‘it just sounded build on. I have the pleasure of working
like the job for me’, whether they’re across disciplines, across agencies and
recent Bachelors graduates, teachers, across geographies, which brings with
neuroscientists or photographers. In my it a sense of responsibility no other
case, an unfulfilled creative drive and job could match. As I wrap up my
passion for communications hung over year as a Strategist at Digit, a design
my head with each professional choice and technology studio in Shoreditch,
I made. And the threat only rose to a I look forward to my next rotation in
crescendo when graduate school was media in Mumbai. Once there, I expect
drawing to a close and I was yet to come I’ll often find myself looking around
across a job description that sounded and wondering – as I often do at R&D
like me. I can no longer recall when brainstorms at Digit -
and how, but the call for ambidextrous
brains on the front of the Fellowship how on earth I got so lucky.


GRADUATE JOBS

The 16% of graduates who expected to
be earning more than £100,000 by their
30th birthday appear to be a little more
unrealistic, however.

As you’d expect good starting salaries
are available in investment banking
or fund managing and law. Students
entering these areas can expect to earn
an impressive £38,250 and £37,000,
respectively.

“
Surprisingly graduates can find the most
competitive earnings in consultancy
and retail, with Lidl’s Graduate Area
Managers starting at £33,000 with the
potential to earn up to £53,000 per year.

Starting salaries vary significantly Of course,
between sectors - graduates starting in
the public sector will earn £23,750, on
finding a job isn’t
average. This is still at the top end of easy. But if you
what most graduates expected to earn
though.
do manage to
secure one of
London continues to be the best-paid
area for graduate jobs, with an average
the thousands
starting salary of £28,500, higher than of graduate
the £25,000 offered in the South-East,
South-West, North-West, Scotland
vacancies
advertised every
and Wales. Higher accommodation
and living costs may offset these gains
but with 40% of all graduate vacancies
situated in the capital, it continues to
prove popular with employers and
employees alike.
year, you could be
earning a lot more
than you think.
“

MEDIA
INTERVIEW

FIND OUT MORE
ABOUT
MEDIA

0MEDIA
MEDIA
Things About
1 1. Work in the
media is highly
journalism. varied; it inclu
des TV, film, vid
2. Most job va eo games and
cancies aren’t
jobs through n advertised, 70
etworking. % of current w
orkers got the
3. However, th ir
e big players s
training schem uch as the BBC
es. offer some hig
hly respected
4. The majorit
y of media jobs
This is a chang are located in
ing situation w London and the
ith many comp South East.
the BBC’s high anies moving n
-profile move to orth, such as
5. 550,000 pe Manchester.
ople work in th
sector being th e media industr
e largest. y, with the inte
ractive media
6. Around a q
uarter of peop
7. Work expe le working in th
rience is consid e media industr
ered an essenti y are freelance
media jobs. al thing for entr .
8. A related-d y into most
egree is not es
your skills. sential, but it c
ertainly helps
to demonstrate
9. Where in th
e past most inte
most media co rnships were u
mpanies now p npaid, this is im
10. The media aying their inte proving with
sector offers s rns.
but offers good ome of the low
opportunities fo est graduate s
tarting salarie
r career-progr s
ession.


Marketing Fell

Deadline for entry:
8 November 2012 (12 noon GMT)
Visit our website and apply online at
42
www.wpp.com
The National Student - Careers Guide 2012

lowships 2013

Ambidextrous
brains required
WPP is the world leader in marketing communications, with more than
150 companies setting industry standards in Advertising; Media Investment
Management; Consumer Insight; Public Relations & Public Affairs; Branding
& Identity; Healthcare Communications; Direct, Digital, Promotion &
Relationship Marketing; and Specialist Communications.

We are manufacturers of communications ideas that help to build business for our
clients, through creating and developing relationships with the people who buy and
use their products and services. We do this through a demanding combination of
hard work and flair; logic and intuition; left brain and right brain thinking.

The Fellowship was started, 17 years ago, to create future generations of leaders
for our companies. Fellows tend to be intellectually curious people, who are
motivated by the challenges of marketing communications, and by the prospect
of working at the confluence of art and business. They spend three years on the
program: in each year they work in a different WPP company, in a different
marketing communications discipline and, usually, on a different continent.
Long-term prospects within a WPP company are excellent, with many former
Fellows now occupying senior management positions.

For further information ask at your careers service or contact:
Harriet Miller, WPP
T: +44 (0)20 7408 2204
E-mail: hmiller@wpp.com The National Student - Careers Guide 2012 43

GRADUATE CASE STUDY

Nomfundo
Sarah Msomi

I
always imagined I’d live and work brochure caught my eye and I knew I
in different parts of the world, wanted to be a Fellow.
although it seemed like a long
shot in the township where I was Internet Scholar Ethan Zuckerman once
born and raised. With a background described ‘bridge figures’ as people who
in International Development, and find themselves at the intersection of
having worked for various charities and disparate cultures and communities,
NGOs, I might seem like an unlikely fit poised to use their unique placement
for marketing. But that’s one of the key to facilitate meaningful connections
strengths of the WPP Fellowship and between people. This is show I interpret
the type of applicants it attracts. You’ll what the Fellowship has allowed me to
often hear a Fellow say, ‘it just sounded build on. I have the pleasure of working
like the job for me’, whether they’re across disciplines, across agencies and
recent Bachelors graduates, teachers, across geographies, which brings with
neuroscientists or photographers. In my it a sense of responsibility no other
case, an unfulfilled creative drive and job could match. As I wrap up my
passion for communications hung over year as a Strategist at Digit, a design
my head with each professional choice and technology studio in Shoreditch,
I made. And the threat only rose to a I look forward to my next rotation in
crescendo when graduate school was media in Mumbai. Once there, I expect
drawing to a close and I was yet to come I’ll often find myself looking around
across a job description that sounded and wondering – as I often do at R&D
like me. I can no longer recall when brainstorms at Digit -
and how, but the call for ambidextrous
brains on the front the fellowship very how on earth I got so lucky.


“
GRADUATE CASE STUDY

I have the pleasure
of working across
disciplines,
across agencies
and across
geographies,
which brings
with it a sense of
responsibility no
other job could
match.
“


GRADUATE CASE STUDY

Dale Kirsop Marketing Director, JWT New York

T
here we were, the Secretary of WPP Fellowship presents a refreshing
State and I, hurtling down the alternative. With guidance and
Kuala Lumpurian motorway in mentorship from industry titans, you are
the Ambassador’s Jag, Union free to forge your own path. Where you
Flag fluttering, motorcycle outriders go, what you do, who you work with…it’s
ahead, while 500 irate passengers on the all up to you. Don’t like it? Then change
midnight jumbo to London awaited our it. WPP will make it happen. That
arrival. Why were we late? The King freedom of choice is rare, and to have it
wouldn’t stop talking, obviously. How in a group as wildly diverse as WPP is
do you tell a King you’ve got to dash to truly unique.
your plane? Awkward.
My Fellowship took me to every
Anyway. “This job is pretty special”, I continent. I managed global advertising
thought to myself. And it is. campaigns, developed smells from
You’re at a scary junction in your life scratch, designed new food products,
and there’s a thousand ways to turn. and wrote speeches for the Prime
Lawyers, Consultants and Financiers Minister, Prince William and David
are no doubt schmoozing you with stock Beckham. After three years, no other
photography, animated PowerPoints Fellow, indeed no other graduate I knew,
and massive salaries. But look harder had a CV like mine. That’s the whole
and you’ll notice what’s not on their point of this programme – we’re all
table. It’s what I consider to be different. WPP respect and encourage
most important: control of your own individuality; they equip us to make our
professional destiny. own tracks, live our own lives and pursue
our own passions. It’s an incredibly
At this point, your career aspirations are liberating experience. So that’s why
untested. It’s tempting but dangerous back then in Malaysia, and still today,
to don the blinkers, and walk blindly I consider the WPP Fellowship to be so
into a regimented training programme special.
only to regret it later. Thankfully, the


“
GRADUATE CASE STUDY

WPP re
and en spect
individ courage
equip uuality; they
our ow s to make
live ou n tracks,
and pu r own lives
own pa rsue our
ssions.
“


GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS

Expert panel:
How to write a CV
If you want to get a job,
h aving a good CV is
essential.
How long should my CV be?    an instant impact, a personal statement
can often add value to your CV, but
Emma Smallwood: “I would suggest be warned, this is not a section to give
that it is no longer than three pages as an overview of your career, it needs
you want to ensure it is concise, to the to highlight key skills and give a clear
point and well structured. Companies indication of your motivations, values
are also starting to request video CVs and career path. No more than 3 or 4
which are a good opportunity to sell your lines.”
personality and articulate your skills and
experience.” How much detail of my education
should I include?
Should I bother with a personal
statement? Emma Smallwood: “This very much
depends on your level of education. Put
Julia Dolowicz: “I would say ‘Yes’. your most recent qualifications first and
Potential recruiters like to read a round- include specific A-levels or equivalent,
up of your strengths, abilities, and followed by, for example, 10 GCSEs A-C.
personality at the top of your CV. It If the job specifies Maths or English,
gives them the information ‘straight- include the specific grade. If half of your
away’” CV consists of a list of grades, it will
not entice potential employers. They
Nadim Choudhury: “If you are targeting are interested in more than just your
a specific careers path and want to make academic qualifications.”


d up three experts
GRADUATE JOBS
TNS line
ing CVs to give you rite
to the role as they draw the employer’s
in writ attention first. Whether you modify your

the lowd own on how to w ck CV depends on how different the jobs

ill put you on tra
are. If you are focusing on transferable

one that w skills, for example, communicating at all

m your dream job..
levels or project planning, you may not
fro need to tailor your CV extensively.

Consider focusing on a specific project
How much of my employment history or role in greater depth if the skills and
should I include? experience are more relevant.”

Nadim Choudhury: “Most employers will How important is the presentation of
ask you to list your past three jobs and my CV?
give you the option of adding additional
employment history if you so wish. If you Nadim Choudhury: “It Is import to have
have a long work history, you might not a clear and concise CV, so avoid fancy
want to include it all because a recruiter presentation styles. Consistency is key
may glaze over and stop reading your and it should be structured properly.
application. Include enough work history Make sure you use fonts appropriately.
to give your future employer a sense of
who you are without listing every job.” Times New Roman and Ariel are
considered good font types of CVs.
How much about my outside interests Highlight key factual information but try
should I include? for it not to be too text heavy.”

Julia Dolowicz: “Employers tell me this Should I use colour in my CV?
is important but it’s crucial to get the
balance right. I would choose to focus on Emma Smallwood: “Using colour to
things that you’re passionate about and highlight certain aspects of the text
happy to discuss at interview. Maybe is useful, but be aware that it may be
two sentences maximum on this.” printed in black and white.

How much should I tailor each CV to If you are applying for roles in the arts
specific positions? the usual CV conventions are not strictly
adhered to and demonstrating your
Emma Smallwood: “You should artistic flair could help your application
definitely tailor your covering letters stand out.”


“
GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS
What is the worst mistake you have
ever seen in a CV?

Nadim Choudhury: “A candidate put Spelling and
down her political affiliation that was Grammar is a
clearly not mainstream. Needless to say
she was not invited for an interview. huge one. It’s
Avoid, religious and political views on
vital that if you’re
CVs.” not confident in
this area – ask
Emma Smallwood: “I once read a
CV written in text language, which
was completely inappropriate.
Communicating in this way is fine for
instant messaging but steer well clear of
it for job applications!”
toothcomb.
“
someone to check
it over with a ‘fine

What is the one mistake you would say
would guarantee your CV going straight
in the bin?

Julia Dolowicz: “Spelling and Grammar
is a huge one. It’s vital that if you’re not
confident in this area – ask someone to
check it over with a ‘fine toothcomb.’”

Emma Smallwood: “Having the wrong
address, company name or person you
are applying to is a huge mistake.

This usually happens because people
apply for multiple roles and use the
same template. Always check the
details before pressing ‘send’. A lack
of attention to detail in the application
process can speak volumes about the
type of person applying for the role.


GRADUATE JOBS

Nadim Choudhury, Head of Career
Services at London School of
Business & Finance (LSBF).
A seasoned career services professional,
Nadim Choudhury has over 8 years'
experience working with leading global
business schools. He has specific
experience in strategy development,
coaching and guidance for MBA students
and senior executives and currently
heads up the Career Services department
at the London School of Business &
Finance. He has delivered hundreds
of workshops on creating personal
marketing strategies and using social
media for career success.

Julia Dolowicz is an external
marker for Liverpool’s John
Moore University World of Work
programme. She also works for
Liverpool College as a Careers Coach,
supporting students throughout the
University application process and
coaching those who want to create their
first CV. Julia is the author of Creating
Your First Ever CV IN Seven Easy Steps.

Emma Smallwood is a consultant
with people services business,
Independent. She completed a
Masters in HR after her degree and
since then has been working on
graduate, talent and training projects for
Independent’s blue chip client base. This
includes designing graduate assessment
centres and assessing those candidates
who attend.

GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS

HOW TO MAKE YOUR JOB
APPLICATION STAND OUT
R)
(WITHOUT DRESSING UP AS A CATERPILLA

A
s an advertising agency, we • An applicant filmed himself
expect (and hope!) for the job handwriting his application in real
applications we receive to be time and used props to illustrate his
innovative. However, there can points. A fantastic idea in theory, but

TO DO IN A
be a very fine line between clever and in practice we struggled to read what
clumsy applications, and sometimes he was writing.
eager graduates become victims of their
own creativity.

VIEW
While these examples are certainly
original, it’s important that any
For example, here’s an insight into what graduates feeling inspired to inject a bit
some of the colleagues at Gratterpalm of inventiveness into their own CV do
remember that job hunters have done in not overlook the basics. The purpose
the past to try and stand out: of a job application is to communicate
• A man pretended to be homeless and your skills, knowledge and experience
sat outside our reception doors with in order to secure an interview. You’ll
a sign saying he would work for free have the opportunity to show off your
– he certainly grabbed our attention personality once you’re face-to-face with
when we were falling over him to get the perspective employer.
into the door.
• Someone printed their CV on a So here are my top ten tips for making
miniscule piece of paper and sent it sure your job application stands out (for
in with a magnifying glass – the very the right reasons):
definition of eye-catching!
• We received a CV that was engraved 1. Make your CV enjoyable to read.
onto a piece of toast, which was used Use colour, photography and design
like a postcard. It survived its postal to present your CV in an interesting
journey as it had been varnished to way. Don’t overdo it though – keep it
keep it intact - including the stamp. relevant and professional.

GRADUATE JOBS

How far would you go to get your dream job? Would you dress up
as a caterpillar, waddle your way into reception and hand deliver
your CV? No? Well that’s what one person did to try and get noticed
by leading advertising agency Gratterpalm. Here, the agency’s HR
Manager, Anna Brown, reveals some of the weird and wonderful job
applications she and her colleagues have seen in their time and
offers some tips on how you can make your job application stand
out – without scaring off potential employers.


GRADUATE
INTERVIEWJOBS

Recruitment agencies can be an
2. on’t sacrifice substance for style.
D expensive option for employers, so
Make sure all the important facts many prefer job hunters to contact
(such as education, work experience them directly – especially in the
and specialist skills) are ticked off current climate.
before you add the finishing touches. 6. ersistence is key, but know when
P
3. f you’re including digital links,
I to stop - stalking is not a good first
videos or audio clips – check, check, impression and you don’t want to
and check again! It’s such a waste of annoy anyone!
your hard work if technology lets you 7. Offer to come in for a day to show
down at the last hurdle. what you can do – it’s a good way
4. nclude examples of your work. This
I to get your foot in the door and
is especially important for creative show the wider team that you mean
roles. Tailor your examples to the business.
company you’re contacting and limit 8. Sell yourself – if you can’t sell
the number of pieces you send – yourself, how will you be able to sell
you’ll be able to go through a more your company’s ideas, products or
extensive portfolio if you’re invited in services? Don’t be afraid of sounding
for an interview. like you’re showing off – if you don’t
5. Contact companies directly, rather make a song and dance about how
than through a recruitment agency. great you are, no one else will.

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