Academics
For some graduate level roles in Jersey, you’ll need a 2:1 degree to be eligible to apply. A 2:2 or lower restricts your choice and generally makes the process tougher but don’t panic, there are still jobs out there open to you. But it’s not just about your degree; employers also want to know about your other grades and academic achievements.
Proactivity
Organisations do not want lazy people, so it’s important your CV demonstrates how you go the extra mile in your studies and spare time. That could be through your involvement in a society or the students’ union, a work experience placement you arranged yourself, the lengths you went to research your dissertation and so on.
Team Fit
You have to show an aptitude for the job together with a personality and attitude that will complement the company culture. This may be demonstrated by your degree, any relevant experience you’ve got and allowing your personality to shine in an interview. Psychometric tests and assessment centres are becoming increasingly popular with employers to pinpoint the ‘right’ candidates to take to the next stage.
Talent
Employers are looking for a mix of technical ability – whether it’s developing databases, writing reports, creative writing - and ‘soft’ skills such as teamwork, communication and problem solving.
Evidence and Examples
An employer will quickly weed out where you’re blagging or exaggerating the truth in an interview. What they want is real-life evidence and examples that back up what you say. Think about:
Which skills you’ve used, where you’ve applied them and how effective they were. What you’ve done that demonstrates your interest and enthusiasm for this area of work. Why you want to work for that particular employer - that means more than a quick skim of their website when researching the company. Delve deeper and come up with a couple of questions that relate to what the organisation actually does and where the job you’re applying for fits into this.
Attention to detail & telling the truth
Getting the basics right goes a long way, and getting it wrong can be a deal breaker. Ensure your CV is grammatically correct, do not tell fibs about your grades and arrive at an interview on time, dressed smartly and appropriately.
Park offers a tailored recruitment service to graduates. If you are graduating this year and would like to discuss your options, call Gemma on 01534 871666 and she will work with you to find your perfect first job!