Graduate Job Podcast (general)

For episode 130 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I share a success story in the form of listener to the show and How to Get a Graduate Job course member and alumni Charlotte, and how she went from applying for grad jobs and never being able to get past a video interview, to joining the course and securing the graduate job of her dreams. We explore Charlotte’s journey, from her struggles applying initially, through to her ultimate success. We delve into her hints and tips for each stage of the process, and how she went from failing every video interview she did to being able to ace them with ease. We cover her advice on balancing applying for grad jobs when you are working full-time, with what she learnt through the various assessment centre processes. It’s a great episode and I hope it inspires you that if Charlotte can do it, you can too. To find out more about today, head to the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/charlotte, where you can find a full transcript, links to the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and details of how you can get coaching with me, including a free 30-minute coaching call.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

·    How Charlotte went from failing every video interview, to being able to pass them with ease

·    Why she recommends the How to Get a Graduate Job course “10,000%”

·    How to balance applying for grad jobs and working full time

·    How to stand out in a group exercise at an assessment centre

·    Her hints and tips for acing psychometric tests

·    Why she joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why she thinks you should too

Direct download: GJP-130.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:03pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 129th episode of the UK’s number 1 career podcast, and I’ve got a very special episode for you today. Joining me back on the show by popular demand is graduate recruitment expert and best-selling author Brian Sinclair, who discusses his new book ‘28 Recruitment Mistakes: And how you can avoid them’. In the show today we discuss the key mistakes you might be making as you apply for a graduate job and how they could be holding you back from career success. We cover each stage of the graduate application process and what you need to do to impress and sail through to the next round, and the howlers to avoid, that will see you getting rejected. No matter what companies you are applying to, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. The only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/mistakes where you can find a full transcript, and links to everything which we discuss, that’s www.graduatejobpodcast.com/mistakes.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What graduate recruiters are really looking for from candidates
  • The insider secrets of how to pass each stage of the graduate application process
  • Common mistakes that rejected candidates make
  • The things you should NEVER say in a job interview
  • The key things that will make you stand out as you apply for a graduate job

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-129.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:23pm GMT

For the 128th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a leading low-cost airline Wizz Air, as they discuss their graduate and non-graduate job opportunities. If you are interested in a graduate job where you aren’t going to be spending all day sat behind a desk on a computer, then this is the episode for you, as today I am very excited to have leading low-cost airline Wizz Air join me on the show. In the episode we discuss their rapid expansion plans and the different opportunities that they have available, from cabin crew through to the pilots at the front of the plane. We delve into all aspects of the application process, from the type of candidates they are looking for, the particular skills and competencies that you need to be brushing up on, and brilliantly, how for some of the roles you can hired in a day. Yes, you heard that right, a one day selection process. If you have ever thought about a career with an airline then this is the episode for you. Now the links to the show notes today including a full transcript you can download and links to everything we discuss can be found at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/wizzair.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The exciting job opportunities at Wizz Air
  • Wizz Air’s expansion plans for the coming year
  • How you can secure a job within a day!
  • What Wizz Air look for from their candidates and how you can stand out from the crowd
  • The key difference separating the candidates that pass, from those that fail

Insider secrets of how you can impress on the day and bag the job

Direct download: GJP-128.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:11pm GMT

For the 127th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Sam, as he shares how he secured his dream graduate job with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Sam signed up for the ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ course back in September last year, and we discuss how following the steps in the course led him to graduate job success.  In the episode, Sam shares his experience of going through the application process for a range of government and policy graduate schemes, such as the Fast Stream, NHS, FCA and others, sharing his insights into what he learned from the CV application stage, completing dozens of different psychometric tests, and his tips and tricks for passing the recorded video interview stage. We also deep dive into the assessment centre stage, as Sam shares his insights into how you can impress at this final hurdle. It’s an inspiring episode, and if Sam can do it, you can do it too, so strap yourself in and listen to our chat today. Now the links to the show notes today including a full transcript you can download and links to everything we discuss can be found at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Sam.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How Sam secured a graduate job with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
  • Sam’s top tips for impressing in the recorded video interviews
  • Why you should only go for the companies that you actually care about
  • How to cope with the stress of an assessment centre, and what you can expect on the day
  • Why Sam joined the ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ course, and why he thinks you should too.
Direct download: GJP-127.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:17pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 126th episode of the UK’s number 1 career podcast, and I’ve got a very special episode for you today. Joining me back on the show by popular demand is serial entrepreneur and author Michael Tefula, who discusses his book Graduate Entrepreneurship: How to Start Your Business After University. In the show today we discuss why university or just after is such a great time to start a business, and we also bust some of the key myths that might be holding you back from taking the plunge. We cover why it might cost you less than you think to start a business, why it’s not about having a great idea, but why you should instead focus on solving people’s problems. Finally, we delve into why graduate schemes will be so interested in any companies you do launch, and how to make the most of those transferrable skills in graduate interviews. No matter what companies you are applying to, and even if you’ve never thought of starting your own business, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/entrepreneurship where you can find a full transcript, and links to everything which we discuss, that’s www.graduatejobpodcast.com/entrepreneurship.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you should think about starting your own business after university
  • The myths that might be holding you back from becoming an entrepreneur
  • Why it won’t cost you as much as you think to start your own company
  • How companies WANT to hear about your ‘side hustle’ when you apply for a graduate job
  • The one thing you MUST think about when you start a company,

 

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-126.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:33pm GMT

Welcome to the second show of the year, and episode 125  of the UK’s number 1 career podcast, and I’ve got a special episode for you today. Joining me on the show is a company that you are going to want to check out if you are looking for a graduate job, as I speak with Ben Rosen, CEO of Inspiring Interns. Inspiring Interns are a company who can help you find a 3-month paid internship across a range of industries and locations. There is no cost to you, you bring your graduate talent, they sort out the rest. On the show, we explore all aspects of the process, from why you should apply and the power of internships, not only in getting you a graduate role but in helping you find the role that is right for you. We cover the different stages of the process and how you can stand out in each, through to making a great impression when you do start. No matter what companies you are applying to, if you’ve never thought of an internship before, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/inspiringinterns where you can find a full transcript, and links to everything which we discuss, that’s www.graduatejobpodcast.com/inspiringinterns.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Who Inspiring Interns are and why you should apply
  • The power of creating a video CV, and how they get results
  • The secrets to impressing in a face-to-face interview
  • Why you shouldn’t overlook the importance of being on time
  • Ben’s insider tips for impressing throughout the application process

 

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-125.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:51pm GMT

For the 124th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with author and former investment analyst Dermot Dorgan on how to get a graduate job in the City. In this fun episode, Dermot shares his 10 commandments for exactly what you need to do to secure your dream graduate role in banking, finance, and accounting in the ultra-competitive City of London.  We explore why you should get a 2:1 or go home, why you shouldn’t expect to rely on your ability as you apply for graduate jobs in the City, and why you might want to think again if you are planning on doing a master’s degree. We also explore why all work experience is so important, and how being ‘human’ can become a key differentiator through the interview process. Having worked in the City himself, Dermot has been there, seen it and got the t-shirt, and his insight will help you no matter what type of company you are applying to. Now the links to the show notes today including a full transcript you can download and links to everything we discuss can be found at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/city.

 MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Dermot’s 10 commandments for getting a graduate job in the City of London
  • Why it is so important to get a 2:1 degree
  • How preparation beat’s ability through the graduate application process
  • Why you might want to think again if you are planning on doing a master’s degree
  • The secret to making your work experience pack a punch
  • How being ‘human’ could be your key differentiator in a graduate job interview

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-124.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:21am GMT

For the 123rd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Daniel, as he shares he secured his dream graduate job in finance with an international IT services company. Daniel signed up for the How to Get a Graduate Job course back in September last year, and we discuss how following the steps in the course led him to graduate job success.  In the episode Daniel shares his experience of going through the application process for a range of different finance, business and accounting firms, sharing his insights into what he learned from the CV application stage, completing dozens of different psychometric tests, and his tips and tricks for passing the recorded video interview stage. We also deep dive into the assessment centre stage, as Daniel shares his insights into how you can impress at this final hurdle. As I said, it’s an inspiring episode, and if Daniel can do it, you can do it too, so strap yourself in and listen to our chat today. Now the links to the show notes today including a full transcript you can download and links to everything we discuss can be found at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Daniel.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How Daniel secured a graduate job in finance with a top international IT services company
  • Daniel’s top tips for impressing in the recorded video interviews
  • How to make sure your work experience stands out from the crowd
  • How to cope with the stress of an assessment centre
  • Why Daniel joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why he thinks you should too.

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-123.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:39pm GMT

For episode 122 of the Graduate Job Podcast I have a brilliant episode for you that is going to open your eyes to the graduate opportunities that are available to you with start-ups, as I am joined on the show by Kabir Bali co-founder of Jumpstart. Jumpstart has set up an innovative graduate scheme where you can apply to start-up firms with venture capital funding who are looking for great graduates, and as well as finding amazing roles with Jumpstart you also get the graduate scheme experience of a month of training and development, and also the social side of joining with a cohort of other people. And in today’s episode, we delve into Jumpstart more generally and how you can apply. We go through the types of start-up firms that they work with, what they look for in candidates and how you can stand out at each stage of the process. We discuss how you can improve your CV, why you need to show not tell with it, and why you should definitely talk about any side hustles or university societies that you’ve been a part of. We also cover why you can expect at least £25k in each role, and normally some equity to boot as well. It’s an informative episode and no matter the type of graduate job you have thought about applying to, from start-ups to global giants, it’s an episode that you arent going to want to miss. As always you can find a full transcript including all of the show notes and links to everything, we discuss at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/jumpstart/.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Who Jumpstart are and how you can apply
  • The training and development you can expect with the Jumpstart programme
  • How the application process works
  • What they look for in candidates
  • Why you need to show not tell with your CV
  • How to impress in your interviews with start-ups
  • Why talking about your side hustles is so important when you apply
  • Why you can expect at least a salary of £25k and normally equity as well

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-122.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:55pm GMT

For episode 121 of the Graduate Job Podcast I have a cracker for you that is going to completely change the way you send emails, as I am joined by business communications expert and best-selling author Kim Arnold who takes us through what you should, and more importantly what you should not be doing when you send job-related emails. In today’s episode, we discuss the secrets to writing emails when applying for graduate jobs, and go through the hints and tips which will help you stand out from the crowd. We explore speculative emails for jobs, why most of them are so bad, and what you can do to make sure that the recruiter will sit up and pay attention to yours. We delve into why you need to stop thinking about what you want and instead focus on what the recruiter is going to care about when you send your email, and how thinking about a hamburger can help you do this…. yes, a hamburger. We explore that tricky topic of chasing recruiters for feedback, how to do it effectively, and crucially how long to wait so that you aren’t coming across like a stalker. And Kim also shares how humour could be your secret weapon in getting a response as you look for a graduate job. It’s a fun episode and no matter what job you are applying for, you are going to be sending emails, so it’s not an episode that you will want to miss. As always you can find a full transcript including all of the show notes and links to everything we discuss at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/email/

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The secrets to writing emails when applying for graduate jobs
  • Email tips that will make you stand out from the crowd
  • How to write a speculative job email that will get results
  • Why most speculative emails for jobs don’t work
  • How thinking about a hamburger will help you get a graduate job
  • Why a good email is all about the company, and not you
  • How to effectively chase a recruiter for feedback on an interview
  • How long to wait before chasing a recruiter?
  • Why humour is so powerful when you are emailing recruiters

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-121.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:39pm GMT

For the 120th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast I speak with graduate recruitment expert, author and Netflix TV show producer Andrew Osayemi, who takes us through how his disastrous teenage love life will help you get a graduate job. In today’s wide-ranging episode, Andrew shares his experiences from both sides of the graduate recruitment fence, and we discuss why getting on a graduate scheme is just like dating. We cover how getting a graduate job is like getting into a top nightclub, and the strategies you need to adopt to get into both. We explore why you need more than just good grades when you apply, and how playing poker led Andrew to career success. We delve into the skills you need to succeed in a job interview and why you should definitely be practising your small talk skills and utilizing the power of telling stories. It’s a fun episode and no matter what you are applying for, not one that you will want to miss. As always you can find a full transcript including all of the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/dating.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How Andrew’s disastrous teenage love life helped him get a graduate job
  • Why getting on a graduate scheme is like dating
  • How getting a graduate job is like getting into a top nightclub
  • Why you need more than just good grades
  • How playing poker led Andrew to career success
  • Why you should practice your small talk skills
  • The power of telling stories when you have a job interview

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-120.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:10pm GMT

For the 119th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Sibrah, as she shares how she managed to get an amazing 5 graduate jobs on top graduate schemes. Sibrah signed up for the How to Get a Graduate Job course back in September last year, and we discuss how following the steps in the course led her to be so successful in getting so many job offers.  She shares her experience of going through the application process for a range of different firms, sharing her insights into what she learnt from the CV application stage, completing over 40 different psychometric tests, and just how she managed to have a 100% pass rate at the recorded video interview stage. Getting a graduate job on one graduate scheme is an achievement, so you are going to want to keep listening to find out just how Sibrah managed to get 5 offers of graduate jobs. Now the links to the show notes today including a full transcript you can download and links to everything we discuss can be found at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Sibrah. In the show today I also announce that the How to Get a Graduate course is now OPEN again for enrolments. As a very special offer for a limited time only I’m including £375 of 1-2-1 coaching with yours truly if you sign up before the 31st of August. That is 5 hours of one-on-one coaching with me where we can practice recorded video interviews, get you ready for assessment centres, get your CV perfected, whatever you want to cover. You have 5 hours with me to use as you see fit. This offer will run to the 31st of August so don’t hang about, sign up now at https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why Sibrah joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why she thinks you should too.
  • How Sibrah managed to secure an unbelievable 5 graduate jobs!
  • Sibrah’s secrets for having a 100% pass rate for recorded video interviews
  • Her advice for making sure your CV stands out from the crowd
  • How she kept on top of over 40 applications for different graduate schemes
  • The £375 of bonus coaching with me that is on offer if you sign up for the How to Get a Graduate Job course before the 31st of August!

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-119.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:52pm GMT

For the 118th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Saffy, as she shares her experiences of how she managed to secure offers of training contracts from two top legal firms. Saffy is an alumnus of the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and we explore how she balanced training contract applications while finishing a dissertation in lockdown, and the trials and tribulations of dealing with rejection and overcoming setbacks. We also cover all stages of the application process for a training contract, from 500 word written competency questions to recorded video interviews, legal case studies, assessment centres and the dreaded partner interview. She shares what went well, mistakes she made along the way, what you need to do to stand out from the crowd as you apply for a training contract, and also why she recommends that you sign up for the How to Get a Graduate Job course. No matter if you have never heard of a training contract or even thought about a career in law, this episode is packed chock full of advice that holds true no matter what type of graduate job you are applying for. Now the only link you need to remember today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Saffy where you can find the shownotes with links to everything we discuss and a full transcript you can download and also details for the relaunch of the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and the special early bird bonuses it will be coming with.  But, without further ado, let's head on over to my chat with Saffy.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What you can expect when you apply for a training contract
  • What you need to do to impress law firms through the application process
  • The biggest mistakes candidates make when they apply for a training contract
  • Questions you will face in the assessment centre for a training contract
  • Why you should expect to be in it for the long haul when you apply to law firms
  • What you can expect from a legal partner interview
  • Why Saffy joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why she thinks you should too.

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-118.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:23am GMT

For the 117th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Athavan, as he shares his experiences of getting a graduate job with top graduate employer PwC. Athavan is an alumnus of the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and he shares his insights of applying for graduate schemes with the big 4, finance companies, the Civil Service and general business management graduate schemes. We discuss the struggles he went through, advice at each stage of the process, and errors and mistakes that he made along the way. No matter what type of graduate job you are applying to, Athavan will be sharing insider tips to help you perform and stand out from the crowd. Now the only link you need to remember today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Athavan which has all of the links to everything we discuss today, including the details and dates of when the How to Get a Graduate Job course will reopen. So without further ado, let's head across to my chat with Athavan.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What you need to do to impress when you apply to PwC or the big 4
  • Questions you will face in the assessment centre for a graduate job with PwC
  • How to ensure you get through the initial application phase when you apply for a graduate job
  • What you can expect from the partner interview with the big 4
  • The importance of focus with your graduate job applications
  • Why Athavan joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why he thinks you should too

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-117.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:11pm GMT

For the 116th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Callum, as he shares his experiences of getting a graduate job with top graduate employer P&G. Callum is an alumnus of the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and he shares his insights of applying for graduate schemes with FMCGs, consulting companies, and engineering firms, the struggles he went through, advice at each stage of the process, and errors and mistakes that he made along the way. No matter what type of graduate job you are applying to, Callum will be sharing insider tips to help you perform and stand out from the crowd. Now the only link you need to remember today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Callum which has all of the links to everything we discuss today, including the details and dates of when the How to Get a Graduate Job course will reopen. So without further ado, let's head across to my chat with Callum.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What you need to do to impress when you apply to Proctor and Gamble
  • What P&G look for from graduates
  • Questions you will face in the assessment centre for a graduate job at P&G
  • How to impress when you apply for consulting roles with the big 4
  • The importance of focus with your graduate job applications
  • Why Callum joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and why he thinks you should too
  • His advice for how you can stand out when you apply for a graduate job

 SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-116.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:27pm GMT

For the 115th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, I speak with a listener of the show Jack, as he shares his experiences of applying for graduate jobs, specifically in finance and accounting with the Big 4 and a host of other firms. Jack is an alumnus of the How to Get a Graduate Job course, and a current final year student, and he shares his insights of how he juggled the applications with his uni work, the struggles he went through, advice at each stage of the process, including just how long you can expect to have to wait between stages, errors and mistakes that he made along the way, and his advice of what you need to do to get a graduate job. No matter what type of graduate job you are applying to, accounting and finance through to banking or consulting and anything in between, Jack will be sharing insider tips to help you perform and stand out from the crowd. Now the only link you need to remember today, other than www.howtogetagraduatejob.com is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Jack which has all of the links to everything we discuss today. So without further ado, let's head across to my chat with Jack.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to impress when you apply to the big 4
  • What you need to do with your initial graduate application
  • Tips to balance juggling applications and academic work
  • What you can expect from a partner interview
  • Why Jack joined the How to Get a Graduate Job course
  • His advice for how you can stand out when you apply for a graduate job
Direct download: GJP-115.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:55pm GMT

Welcome to the 114th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK's number 1 and longest-running careers podcast. The clocks have gone forward the days are getting longer, and the graduate recruitment process is in its final throws for another year, and I’m here for another episode of career’s advice. Today, I’m going to take you through a predicament which many candidates currently find themselves in, for all different sorts of graduate schemes, being on the dreaded waiting list! In today’s episode, I share 5 tips for what you can do if you find yourself in this annoying position. Nobody wants to be on the waiting list for a graduate job, but you don’t have to just sit there twiddling with thumbs, and after today’s episode you won’t. You can find a full transcript including links to everything I discuss in the show notes at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/waiting

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why patience is the key
  • Why you need to show your flexibility
  • The importance of practising as you do wait
  • Why you should reflect on how you can improve
  • Why you should look at the positives from the situation
Direct download: GJP-114.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:53pm GMT

For episode 113 I have a special episode to coincide with National Apprenticeship week here in the UK. Now you might be thinking that you are too old for an apprenticeship, or that they aren’t relevant because you have a degree, and on both counts, you would wrong, as you will find out as we bust some apprenticeship myths. And to help me bust those myths back by popular demand we have a friend of the show and a company which is consistently voted one of the best places to work in the UK and is home to one of the most sought after graduate schemes, and apprenticeship schemes, it is of course Mars. Joining me first today I have Vikki who is the Apprentice Manager at Mars who gives us an overview of apprenticeships at Mars and what you can expect through the application process. Then for the second part of the episode, I speak with Holli who is currently an apprentice at Mars, and she shares insights into what it is actually like as an apprentice, the work she does, her experiences and going through the application journey. As I said, I’m sure this episode will explode some myths you might have about apprenticeships and will open your eyes to the opportunities which are out there. As always, you can find a full transcript and links to everything which we discuss in the show-notes, which today you can find at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Marsapprentice

Direct download: GJP-113.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:58pm GMT

A warm welcome to the first episode of the UK's number one careers podcast for 2021. It might be cold outside but I have a special guest who will warm you up with his brilliant careers advice as we tackle the perennial issue of how to get a job you love, it is, of course, the one, the only, John Lees. In the show today we explore whether it is still realistic to expect to find a job you love, and how as a graduate you can find the right job and role out of the thousands of companies out there. We cover why speed is of the essence and why you need to take advantage of your confidence window when you start applying. We delve into how to understand your skills as a new graduate and how to make sure you aren’t overlooking your natural talents, and we also address the thorny issue of money, and just how important it should be in your search for a graduate job you love. And finally, we discuss why you should listen to your gut and not your parents as you look for a graduate job. As always, you can find a full transcript and links to everything we discuss, in the show notes, which today are at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/love2.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • If it is realistic to expect to find a job you love
  • How graduates can find the right job and role for them out of the thousands of companies out there
  • Why speed is of the essence when you start applying
  • Why you shouldn’t mistake rejection for feedback
  • How to understand your skills as a new graduate and not overlook your natural talents
  • How to factor the question of money into your search for a graduate job you love
  • Why viewing every role as a project is the secret to career success
  • Why you should listen to your gut and not your parents as you look for a graduate job
Direct download: GJP-112.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:28am GMT

A big hello to the 111th episode of the UK’s number 1 career podcast, and I’ve got a special episode for you this week, a fast-growing UK tech company with 3 brilliant graduate schemes on offer, I’m pleased to welcome to the show, Computacenter. In today’s show, we explore Computacenter in detail, looking at what exactly the company does and diving into the 3 graduate schemes that they offer across sales, project management and business management. We break down each of these schemes, looking at what each entails, the attributes and characteristics they look for and what you can expect at each stage of the application process. We cover why you shouldn’t worry too much about the initial online application, but why you do need to focus on the recorded video interview. We explore the face to face video stage and why you shouldn’t be surprised if there is a current graduate there who is also interviewing you. We go through what you can expect in the assessment centre, and why Computacenter is like no other graduate scheme, in that you can look forward to meeting the Managing Director at this stage. Now it doesn’t matter if you have never heard of Computacenter before, they are a company which are going places, and in this interview, I’m sure you will be impressed by the onus which their senior leaders put on finding and keeping graduate talent. As always, you can find a full transcript and links to everything we discuss, which you can find in the show notes, which today are at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/computacenter.

Before we start today let me tell you about my brilliant step-by-step online course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ which is LIVE!!!!! The members who have snapped it up are all doing brilliantly, and I’m pleased to say that for some of them the graduate scheme offers have already started coming through! They are loving the private member’s webinars and the course content spread over 8 modules, 23 video tutorials, 14 hours of content, and 20+ handouts. As well as the course the private member's Facebook is going down a storm, with members helping each other out and sharing all of the questions that they are facing for each application, from the recorded video interviews through to the assessment centres. How useful would you find that information? As one of the members said, ‘I just love having all of the information I need to get a graduate job in 1 place’. If you are serious about getting a graduate job, if you want to turbo-charge your job search for companies like Computacenter, if you want to know in advance all the pitfalls and mistakes so that you don’t make them yourself, and if you want to know exactly what you need to do at each stage of the process to get on a graduate scheme, then head to howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up. It is an investment in yourself which will pay itself back many thousand times over when you get that graduate job of your dreams. So, go to www.howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up now! Right, on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Computacenter and their 3 graduate schemes across sales, project management and business management
  • What Computacenter look for from candidates and how you can stand out in the application process
  • Why you shouldn’t worry too much about the initial CV stage
  • How to make an impact in the video interview
  • Why you shouldn’t be too surprised if there is a current graduate there in the interview stage
  • Secrets for performing well in the assessment centre, and why you can expect to meet the Managing Director

SELECTED LINKS INCLUDE:

Direct download: GJP-111.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:18pm GMT

In the 110th episode of the UK’s number 1 career podcast, I have a very special guest returning to the show after a gap of 5 years. An innovative graduate scheme which offers a fast-track route into the field of mental health social work, it is, of course, the brilliant Think Ahead scheme. In today’s show, we explore Think Ahead in detail, looking at what the scheme is and how it is the best fast-track route into a career in mental health social work. We cover what the role entails and what you will be doing on a day to day basis. We discuss what Think Ahead look for from candidates and how you can stand out in the application process. We go over hints and tips for impressing in each stage of the process, from the initial application, through to how to make an impact in the video interview and role play, and the secrets for performing well in the assessment centre. We also delve into why it is absolutely is crucial to focus on Think Ahead’s 7 values and your motivations for why you want a career in mental health social work. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never heard of Think Ahead before, or not even considered a career in social work, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss! As always, you can find a full transcript and links to everything we discuss, including Ivan’s top book recommendation which you need to be reading if you are applying to Think Ahead, which you can find in the show notes, which today are at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/thinkahead2.

Before we start today let me tell you about my brilliant step-by-step online course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ which is LIVE!!!!! The members who have snapped it up are all doing brilliantly and loving the private member’s webinars and the course content spread over 8 modules, 23 video tutorials, 14 hours of content, and 20+ handouts. The value of the course can be seen that several have sailed through the application processes for the big graduate schemes and have their first assessment centres coming up in the next couple of weeks. As well as the course the private member's Facebook is going down a storm, with members helping each other out and sharing the questions that they are facing for each application, which as you can imagine is invaluable! As one of the members said, ‘I just love having all of the information I need to get a graduate job in 1 place’. If you are serious about getting a graduate job, if you want to turbo-charge your job search for companies like Think Ahead, if you want to know in advance all the pitfalls and mistakes so that you don’t make them yourself, and if you want to know exactly what you need to do at each stage of the process to get on a graduate scheme, then head to howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up. It is an investment in yourself which will pay itself back many thousand times over when you get that graduate job of your dreams. So, go to www.howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up now! 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What the Think Ahead scheme is and how it is the best fast-track route into a career in mental health social work
  • What the role entails and what you will be doing on a day to day basis
  • What Think Ahead look for from candidates and how you can stand out in the application process
  • Hints and tips for impressing in the initial application
  • How to make an impact in the video interview and role play
  • Secrets for performing well in the assessment centre
  • Why it is crucial to focus on Think Ahead’s 7 values
Direct download: GJP-110.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:43pm GMT

Hello and welcome to episode 109 of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK’s number 1 careers podcast, and I have a great episode for you today, a company who you probably haven’t thought of applying to, who have £27 billion to spend over the next 5 years, yes you heard that correctly, £27 billion, with a B, and who have 7 different graduate schemes on offer, yes today I am joined by Highways England. In the show, we explore their 7 different graduate schemes in turn and look at what you need to do to impress at each stage of the process. We cover why personal development is so important on the scheme and the professional qualifications you will gain with Highways England. We discuss the streamlined application process and why you won't need a CV and cover letter, but you will need to focus on Highways England’s values. We delve into top tips and hints for passing each stage of the application process and finish with what to expect in the assessment centre and how to stand out from the crowd. No matter if you have never heard of Highways England or you haven’t even thought of applying, this is an episode you won't want to miss, as with the 7 different graduate schemes they have something for everyone. As always you can find a full transcript with all the links which you can download over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/highwaysengland.

Before we start today let me tell you about my brilliant new step-by-step online course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ which is LIVE, and which you are able to join right this very moment. The first cohort of members are in, the private member's webinars are taking place on a Tuesday evening, and I have to say, the feedback is they are loving the 8 modules, 23 video tutorials, 14 hours of content, and 20+ handouts. As one of the members said, ‘I just love having all of the information I need to get a graduate job in 1 place’. If you are serious about getting a graduate job, if you want to turbo-charge your job search, if you want to know all the pitfalls and mistakes so that you don’t make them yourself, and if you want to know exactly what you need to do at each stage of the process to get on a graduate scheme, then head to howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up. It is an investment in yourself which will pay itself back many thousand times over when you get that graduate job of your dreams. So, go to www.howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up now! Right, on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The 7 different graduate schemes that Highways England have available
  • Why personal development is so important on the scheme and the professional qualifications you will gain
  • The lean application process to apply for a graduate job with Highways England
  • The common themes that Highways England look for, and why you need to focus on their values
  • Top tips and hints for passing each stage of the application process
  • What to expect in the assessment centre and how to stand out from the crowd
Direct download: GJP-109.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:41pm GMT

Welcome to episode 108 of the UK’s number 1 career podcast. And today we go transatlantic again in the search for the best job search advice on the planet, as I speak with bestselling author Lauren Herring, author of the new book ‘Take Control of Your Job Search!: 10 Emotions You Must Master to Land the Job’. In today’s episode we focus on that topic of emotions, those pesky things that left unchecked can hold you back and get in the way of you getting that dream graduate job. We explore fear, how it shows up, how to conquer it, and why you should think about the worst thing that could possibly happen. We discuss rejection, why it is part and parcel of looking for a graduate job, and why you shouldn’t take it personally. We delve into the topic of frustration and how you can overcome it, and also the issue of confidence and why you need to unleash your inner rock star. And we also explore why it is absolutely crucial to have self-compassion as you look for a graduate job, and why if you wouldn’t say it to a friend, you shouldn’t say it to yourself. It’s a thought-provoking episode, and as usual, you can find a full transcript and links to everything we discuss in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/emotion.

Before we start today let me tell you about my brilliant new step-by-step online course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ which is LIVE!!!!! The first cohort of members are in, the private member's webinars are taking place on a Tuesday evening, and I have to say, the feedback is they are loving the 8 modules, 23 video tutorials, 14 hours of content, and 20+ handouts. As one of the members said, ‘I just love having all of the information I need to get a graduate job in 1 place’. If you are serious about getting a graduate job, if you want to turbo-charge your job search, if you want to know all the pitfalls and mistakes so that you don’t make them yourself, and if you want to know exactly what you need to do at each stage of the process to get on a graduate scheme, then head to howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up. It is an investment in yourself which will pay itself back many thousand times over when you get that graduate job of your dreams. So, go to www.howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up now! Right, on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The emotions you need to keep an eye on so they don’t derail your job search
  • How to conquer fear as you look for a graduate job
  • Why rejection is a part of the job search process and you should embrace it
  • How to deal with the frustration of trying to get on a graduate scheme
  • Why confidence is key, and you should embrace your inner rock star
  • The importance of self-compassion, and if you wouldn’t say it to a friend, you shouldn’t say it to yourself
Direct download: GJP-108.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:36pm GMT

A big hello to episode 107 of the UK’s number 1 career podcast. And today we explore the topic of interviews, and specifically the small mistakes that people make in a job interview that can have big and bad consequences, as I chat with author Anne Baum. We delve into Anne’s new book and explore how you can make a great impression in a face to face interview. We explore 9 different key mistakes that candidates tend to make, so you can ensure that you aren’t making them. The face-to-face interview stage is the crucial part of the process, slip up here and you won’t be getting the graduate job, so this is an episode that you won’t want to miss! As always, you can find a full transcript and all the links from today in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/mistake.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why it is so important to perform well in an interview
  • 9 key mistakes to avoid to ensure that you aren’t rejected
  • Why being overconfident about your achievements is not the recipe for success
  • How it is still crucial to dress smartly for an interview, even in a dress down culture
  • The importance of body language, and what it says about you in an interview
  • Why acting as if you only care about what’s in it for you is not a good look in an interview

Check out the How to Get a Graduate Job step-by-step online course at https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/

Direct download: GJP-107.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:18pm GMT

Hello and a warm welcome to episode 106 of the UK's number 1 career podcast. It’s the beginning of the application process for graduate schemes, internships, vacation schemes and training contracts, and I have a beauty for you today. No matter who you apply to, for whatever type of scheme, you are going to have to do an online test, and increasingly, that test is going to take the form of a games-based assessment, and that is what we explore today, as I speak to Al Frater from Arctic Shores who are the leading provider of games based assessments, and who designed the PWC Career Unlocked games-based test. We will go into what games-based assessments are and why they are being used by graduate schemes. We will cover what you can expect in a games-based test and the types of games you can expect. We delve into how you can impress in them, and top tips for standing out from the crowd. We also explode some myths about games-based assessments cover why you shouldn’t believe everything that you read online. As always, it’s an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. And today you can find a full transcript including all of the links in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/games.

 

Before we start today let me tell you about my brilliant new step-by-step online course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ which I’m pleased to say is now LIVE!!!!! The first cohort of members have signed up and are in, and are loving the 8 modules, 23 video tutorials, and 20+ handouts and we have the first members-only webinar next week. The feedback has been brilliant, as one of the members said, ‘I just love having all of the information I need to get a graduate job in 1 place’. If you are serious about getting a graduate job, if you want to turbo-charge your job search, if you want to know all the pitfalls and mistakes so that you don’t make them yourself, and if you want to know exactly what you need to know to get on a graduate scheme, then head to howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up. It is an investment in yourself which will pay itself back many thousand times over when you get that graduate job. So, go to www.howtogetagraduatejob.com and sign up now! Right, on with the show.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What games-based assessments are
  • Why they are now being used by graduate schemes
  • What you can expect when you take a games-based test
  • Top tips for impressing in a games-based assessment
  • Whether gamers stand a better chance in the tests than non-gamers
  • Why you shouldn’t believe everything you read online about games-based tests
  • Why you don’t have to be perfect to pass a games-based test
Direct download: GJP-106.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:43am GMT

I’m pleased to announce that my ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ course is now LIVE! This step-by-step course is designed to take you by the hand and guide you through the tricky process of applying for and getting a graduate job. I’ve been working on it full time for the last 5 months, and it is packed chock full of everything that you need to do to get on a graduate scheme. In this episode I lift the lid on the course and show you exactly what you can expect from its 8 modules, containing 23 video tutorials, and over 14 hours of content. I go through those 8 modules in turn and also cover the exclusive bonuses worth over £300 that I’m giving away in the first week the course is on sale, and why you need to snap them up before the end of September. The only link to remember from the episode today is https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Who the course is for, and who it is NOT for?
  • What is included in the course?
  • Why you need it if you are applying for a graduate scheme
  • The £300+ of bonuses that come with the course if you buy it in the first week
  • Why I’m so confident you will love it, that it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee
Direct download: GJP-105.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:58pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 104th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK’s number 1 careers podcast. The days of popping your CV in the post to apply for a graduate job are long gong, which is why you need to make sure that your online application is absolutely top-notch. The industry average is that 75% of people fail at the online application stage! Let that sink in…75%. That is an awful lot of people who aren’t getting over the first hurdle in their application for a graduate job. And an awful lot of wasted time and energy. But today that is going to change, as we are going to go through 5 rules you need to follow to ensure that your online application for a graduate job isn’t wasted, and so that it gets you through to the next stage of the process. We cover why you need to pay particular attention to the job spec, and know exactly what each firm is looking for. We explore why your unique selling points are so crucial and how you can pick out what they might be. We delve into why tailoring your application is so important, and why you shouldn’t expect the online application process to be too easy. We finish by discussing why good spelling and grammar could be the difference between getting through to the next stage or getting your online application put in the proverbial bin. So sit back relax and have a listen safely in the knowledge that you can download a full transcript of the episode today over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/onlineapplications.

Direct download: GJP-104.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:15pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 103rd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK’s number 1 careers podcast. I have a cracking episode for you today, as I’m joined on the show by Dan Doherty, Recruitment Manager for global consulting and technology giant Capgemini. I have to warn you, it’s a longer episode than normal, coming in at nearly an hour twenty today, but there is a good reason for it, as we go deep deep down into exactly what you need to do to get a graduate job at Capgemini. We explore the different roles that they have available, from the Invent Accelerate Programme, through to direct entry for a host of technology and business specific roles such as cyber security and project analyst roles. We also explore all aspects of the recruitment process in depth and look at the key mistakes you need to avoid. We explore why Capgemini look to recruit from a broad range of universities, why the degree you studied matters less than you might think, and why you should definitely let them know about your side hustle. We cover why 65% of applicants fail at the initial online application stage, and what you can do to make sure that isn’t you. We look at why you need to forget about your competency answers when applying to Capgemini, and instead start to think about your strengths. We discuss why it is so crucial to show your authentic self in the video interview and exactly what you need to do to impress when you get to the assessment centre. If you have ever thought about applying to Capgemini, a consulting firm more generally, or any professional services company, then this is an episode which you won’t want to miss. As always you can find a full transcript with all of the links over in the show notes at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/capgemini. As I said it’s a longer episode than normal, so get yourself a cup of tea, settle down and enjoy my chat with Dan Doherty.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get your hands on the free guide ‘The 5 steps you must take before applying for graduate jobs’ by going to https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/
  • The graduate job opportunities that are available at Capgemini
  • Why Capgemini look to recruit from a broad range of universities and why the degree you studied matters less than you might think
  • Why 65% of applicants fail at the initial online application stage
  • Why you need to forget about competency questions and focus on strength-based questions
  • Why you need to show your authentic self through the video interview and assessment centre stages
Direct download: GJP-103.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:09pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 102nd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK’s number 1 careers podcast. And I’ve got a goodie for you today, I’m going to take you through the often-overlooked part of the interview process, strengths-based questions! Graduates are well versed with competency questions, and can give a STAR answer till the cows come home, but learning about and practising strengths-based questions are often overlooked, and that needs to change, and it will….today. In the show today I will walk you through what strengths-based questions are, and why you need to know how to answer them. We discuss why they have been growing in popularity and why that growth is only going to continue. We cover the types of questions you could face and also hints and tips for how you can answer them and also the interview itself. Its and all-round strengths-based interview masterclass. No matter where you are in your job search, if you have ever had a strength-based interview before, or never heard of them, this is an episode which you are not going to want to miss. Now the all the links and a full transcript from today can be found in the show notes at which you can find at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/strength

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get your hands on the free guide ‘The 5 steps you must take before applying for graduate jobs’ by going to https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/
  • What strengths-based questions are
  • Why they are important and why you need to know how to answer them
  • The reasons why strengths-based questions have been growing in popularity and why that growth is only going to continue.
  • The types of strengths-based questions you could face
  • Hints and tips for how you can answer them and what you can expect in the interview itself
Direct download: GJP-102.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:40pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 101st episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK's number 1 careers podcast. And I have a special episode for you today, with 2 big announcements. 1 relating to my upcoming course ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’, and one brilliant giveaway for you which I reveal at the end of the episode. In the show today I give you a sneak peek inside my upcoming course and give you a taste of what you can expect in each of the 8 modules. We cover why I’m releasing a course in the first place, and what the course involves. We explore each of the 8 modules in turn and why they will transform your job search and your life and will save you years of wasted applications. No matter where you are in your job search, if you have ever thought about getting help with your applications or not, this is an episode which you are not going to want to miss. Before we get started links and a full transcript from today can be found in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/episode101.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get your hands on the free guide ‘The 5 steps you must take before applying for graduate jobs’ by going to https://howtogetagraduatejob.com/
  • What you can expect from the ‘How to Get a Graduate Job’ course
  • Details of the 8 modules and what is included at each stage
  • The goodies, bonuses and handouts, and why you need to sign up so that you can be one of the first to get the course
  • Why I am developing the course and the years of work which have gone into it
  • When the course will go live
Direct download: GJP-101.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:20pm GMT

A big hello, to a very special episode, a milestone which has been 2051 days in the making, welcome to episode 100 of the graduate job podcast! It’s taken me longer than I would have thought to get here, and I wasn’t sure if I would at some points, but here we are. Today I will explore some the key things I have learnt over the course of these nearly 6 years and 100 episodes, and how you can put that knowledge to use in your search for a graduate job. I will cover the importance of taking the leap and starting, and how that first step is the most important. I touch upon imposter syndrome, and why it’s something that everyone has and how it doesn’t go away. I talk about how people will always help if you ask them, and why when the going gets tough you need to stick with it. Crucially I talk about why you should always look to learn from the knowledge and mistakes of others, and why it is important to follow your passions. No matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always a full transcript which you can handily download and all the links from today can be found in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/100.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why starting can be so difficult, but why it is so important
  • What imposter syndrome is and why it is more prevalent than you think
  • Why you need to be asking people for help as you look for a graduate job
  • How perseverance and staying the course will be so vital as you look for a job
  • Why smart job seekers look to utilise the knowledge of other people
  • The importance of having a passion that gets you out of bed in the morning
Direct download: GJP-100.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:54pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 99th episode of the UKs number 1 careers podcast. In today’s episode I answer a listener question from Bruno. Bruno had been listening to episode 61 on how to get a graduate job with a 2.2. or 3rd and asked me the following question, ‘There are lots of companies who take a 2.2, but what about a third-class degree? Does that count as well? Or is there really no hope for someone who got a third-class degree?’ Don’t worry Bruno, there is always hope, and today I will take you through what you need to do to get a graduate job with a third. We will cover why first you need to take a bit of time to reflect on why you got a third, but importantly you need to understand that this degree classification does not in any way define who you are as a person, or what you will go on to do in your life. We look at why you need to focus down in your approach, and why graduate jobs and not graduate schemes will be the best way forward. Finally, we touch upon why experience is the key for your long-term success. No matter where you are in your job search, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always you can find a full downloadable transcript and all the links from everything, we discuss today at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/third

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you are not your degree, and why your self-worth should not be attached to a degree classification
  • The importance of self-reflection and thinking about why you got a third-class degree
  • EY’s forward looking approach to looking at a graduate’s all-round abilities and not just their degree classification
  • How looking for graduate jobs and not graduate schemes is the way to go
  • Why experience is the key to getting a graduate job with a third
Direct download: GJP-99.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:13pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 98th episode of the UK’s number 1 careers podcast. In today’s episode I answer a listener question from Jessie, who got in touch and asked me the following question. ‘I graduated 7 years ago but want to completely change the direction of my career. Am I too old to apply for a graduate job?’ A great question and one I will walk you through today. We will look at if there is indeed an age limit on graduate jobs, or if there is a time limit for how quickly you have to apply after university. We explore why work experience and skills are so key, and some of the key things you need to do to if you are thinking of transitioning careers. No matter where you are in your job search, still studying, or thinking of changing careers, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always you can find a full downloadable transcript and all the links from everything we discuss today at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/age

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why age is no barrier to applying for a graduate job
  • Why graduate recruiters value the skills and experience that older graduates bring
  • Why thinking about your skills and experience is so crucial if you are pivoting your career
  • How to link your skills to the competencies and values of a graduate recruiter
Direct download: GJP-98.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:47am GMT

Hello, and a very warm welcome to the 97th episode of the UK's number 1 careers podcast. I have a very special episode for you today, an episode which has been 9 months in the making. Back in September, a listener got in touch asking about my coaching services to help with his applications for graduate jobs, and I’m pleased that today 9 months later, he joins me on the show to discuss how he got on. It’s not too much of a spoiler to let you know that he did really well, getting 3 jobs offers in this time. We delve into his thoughts, reflections and advice as a graduate going through the different application processes. We cover the importance of focussing down and why it so crucial to ensure that your CV is perfect before you start applying for graduate jobs.  We talk about his experience with online tests, and why you are wasting your time if you don’t put energy into practising this vital step. We explore practical hints and tips for video interviews, and key mistakes to avoid, and Jean shares his feedback and advice from taking part in 4 graduate assessment centres, and in particular his insights into how to stand out in the group exercise at an assessment centre. We also delve into the benefits of getting outside help to assist you through the process, and why you definitely should think about investing in yourself. No matter where you are in your job search, just starting after graduation or one year in with lots of rejections under your belt, this is an episode you won't want to miss. As always you can find a full downloadable transcript and all the links from everything we discuss today at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/coachingsuccess.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • A graduate’s perspective on going through the graduate job application process
  • Why it is so crucial to ensure that your CV is perfect before you start applying
  • Why you are wasting your time applying if you don’t focus on practising the online tests
  • Practical hints and tips for video interviews, and key mistakes to avoid!
  • Feedback and advice from taking part in 4 graduate assessment centres
  • How to stand out in the group exercise at an assessment centre
  • Why you should think about investing in yourself and getting some outside help.
Direct download: GJP-97.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:22pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 96th episode of the UK’s number 1 careers podcast, and I’ve got a cracking show for you today. The graduate job recruitment process is always changing, and a big recent change has been in the exponential rise in the use of video interviews instead of telephone interviews. In this episode, I’m joined by digital interview guru Paul Bailo and we explore everything you need to do to impress in a video interview. We cover why you need to think of yourself as the star of the show in a video interview, and why investing in a few cheap pieces of equipment can make all of the difference. We look at how 85% of a digital interview has nothing to do with what you say, but why you do need to pay close attention to the ‘Triangle of love’. We explore how to do a ‘digital handshake’ in your interview, and the tips and tricks to ensure that you finish the video interview on a high. Stay tuned to the end of the episode as well, as I reveal a brand new service that will be able to help you practice recorded video interviews. No matter where you are on your job search, you are going to have to do video interviews, so make sure you listen to the episode today. As always, a full transcript and all the links from today can be found in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/digital.

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you need to think of yourself as the star of the show in a video interview
  • How a few pieces of equipment can make all of the difference
  • How 85% of a digital interview has nothing to do with what you say
  • What the ‘Triangle of love’ is, and why it is so important
  • How to do a ‘digital handshake’ in your interview
  • The body language and non-verbal tips you need to be using
  • How to end a digital interview on a high
Direct download: GJP-96.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:25pm GMT

Welcome to the 95th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. Over the coming weeks students would normally be graduating and heading out into the world to start looking for a graduate job. This transition period from university to work is a stressful enough time, not helped often by the extra pressure placed on recent graduates from parents. Which is why this episode is dedicated to parents and how they can help their recently graduated kids find a graduate job. Get them to download it, download it for them if you have to, but try and get them to listen to it. In today's episode, I explore 8 key things that your parents need to do to help you as you try and get a graduate job. I cover why worrying and panic is not going to do anyone any good, and why your parents might be out of touch with the modern world of work and recruitment. We delve into why they should be thinking about your needs and not theirs, and why getting their chequebook out to fund a masters isn’t the answer. We look at what they can do to help, why they should think about dropping me an email, how they can utilise their network, and why their mindset matter. No matter where you are on your job search for a graduate job, just graduating or already applying, this is an episode you need to listen to. Links today and a full transcript can be found in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/parents.

Before we start let me tell you about the brilliant course I’m working on cunningly titled “How to get a graduate job”. This course is packed chock full of decades of experience into one step by step guide of everything you need to do to get a graduate job. There are videos, guides, handouts, cheat sheets, example CVs, example covering letters, example answers to those annoying 200-word competency questions, help with telephone interviews, video interviews. Look if you need to know it to get a graduate job it’s in my course. The course is going live in August, but to be the first to hear about it and get it at a never to be repeated price with special bonuses, head to www.graduatejobpodcast.com/course and leave me your email. Right, on with the show.

Direct download: GJP-95.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:52am GMT

Welcome to the 94th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK’s number 1 careers podcast. Today I take you through the tricky topic of how to deal with rejection when you apply for a graduate job. It’s a topic that you hope you aren’t going to have to deal with, but the simple fact is, at some stage you’re going to get the old ‘thanks but no thanks’ email, and you are going to need to know what to do when it lands through in your inbox. I take you through the 8 stages of dealing with getting rejected from a graduate job, from acknowledging exactly why it hurts, to why you really shouldn’t take it personally. To why you need to step back and be honest with yourself, and how you should go about doing this. I delve into why getting feedback on your performance is so crucial, and just as importantly what you need to then do with that feedback. In this episode I take you step by step through the process from anger and upset at the initial rejection to taking the learning and using it to super charge your graduate job search.

No matter where you are in your job search, if you’ve started applying, or still thinking about which jobs to apply to, if you’ve not had a rejection yet or if you have a stack of them, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/rejection, as that has all the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

Direct download: GJP-94.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:22am GMT

Hello and thank you for joining me for the 93rd episode of the UKs number 1 careers podcast and boy do I have a cracker for you today. I’m joined on the show by a company who aren’t a household name, but whose products you will definitely have used. They are in the FTSE 100, are growing rapidly, and have some of the most exciting and international graduate schemes on the market today. They are of course packaging and recycling giant DS Smith. In this episode we delve deep into DS Smith and cover what exactly that they do as a business, and the types of roles they offer across their 3 graduate schemes. We look into the finance scheme in particular and its amazing opportunity to spend one-year placements working across Europe. We explore what you need to do to apply and the details of each stage of the application process. We cover how you can stand out from the crowd and what you can expect from the virtual assessment centre. No matter if you have already applied, or not even heard of DS Smith, this is an episode you won’t want to miss, as it is packed full of brilliant advice which will stand you in good stead for any graduate scheme you apply to. As always, a full transcript and all the links from today can be found in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/dssmith.

 MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • DS Smith and exactly what they do as a business
  • Their 3 graduate schemes and what you can expect across each
  • The international travel opportunities available on the finance scheme
  • Details of each stage of the application process
  • Why 23-page CVs aren’t needed to apply
  • How to stand out from the crowd at each stage
  • What to expect from the virtual assessment centre

 

Direct download: GJP-93.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:06pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 92nd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. In today’s episode I tackle a listener question, which is when is the best time to apply for a graduate job? Is it better to apply during your final year, or once you have graduated? In this episode I take you through the pros and cons of when you should start applying.  We cover when graduate schemes are open from, why applicants often underestimate the work required to apply for a graduate job, and why you need to think carefully about if you have capacity to apply for jobs whilst you are in your final year. I delve into some of the advantages of applying early, such as the skills and experience you learn from an early application, how it might reset your expectations about how difficult the application will be, and how it could be worth applying early if you don’t think you will get a 2.1. Finally, I explore why ultimately you should ignore any peer pressure and only apply for graduate jobs when you have capacity and are ready. No matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always you can find a full transcript with all the links from today in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/when.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • When graduate schemes open and close, and why you need to make sure you apply early
  • Why applying in your final year might be best if you think you will get a 2:2
  • How most graduates underestimate the work required to apply successfully for graduate jobs
  • Why you need to disregard peer pressure and what your friends are doing, and apply when is best for you
  • Why you need to be making the most of your time at university
Direct download: GJP-92.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:09am GMT

Welcome to the 91st episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where this week we get niche and dive into getting a graduate job in the field of quality and regulatory affairs. I’m joined today by regulatory affairs expert Karandeep Badwal, we explore just exactly what quality and regulatory affairs is and why it is such a booming area for graduates. In this episode, aside from me repeatedly stumbling over the phrase ‘regulatory affairs’, we discuss the key skills you need to thrive in this area of work, why work experience is so crucial to starting your career, and the things you need to be doing now to get noticed and get your first role. No matter if you are already set on getting into regulatory affairs, or if you have never heard of the area before, this is an episode you should listen to as we explore topics such as how to use LinkedIn effectively, how to send effective cold emails and how to get noticed through volunteering and work experience which are relevant no matter what industry you are applying to. The only link you need to remember today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/regulatoryaffairs which has a full transcript you can download and also all links to everything we discuss. 

Before we start let me tell you about the brilliant course I'm working on cunningly titled "how to get a graduate job". In this course is packed decades of experience into one step by step guide of everything you need to do to get a graduate job. There are videos, guides, handouts, help with CVs applications, video interviews, if you need to know if to get a graduate job it's in my course. It's going live at the end of August, but to be the first to hear about it and get it at a never to be repeated price with special bonuses, head to graduatejobpodcast.com/course and leave me your email. Right, on with the show.

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, and by email. So, something for everyone there.                  

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why quality and regulatory affairs is such a booming area for graduates 
  • Top tips for getting ahead whilst you are still at university 
  • How to stand out when you apply for a graduate job in quality and regulatory affairs
  • Why getting work experience is so crucial to starting your career 
  • The key skills you need to get ahead in quality and regulatory affairs
  • The number one thing you need to be doing NOW to get ahead
Direct download: GJP-91.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:11pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 90th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast.  Today is the follow up episode to episode 86 where I spoke with Martina Gibbons, recruitment lead for IPS Grow. As a reminder, IPS stands for Individual Placement and Support, and it is an NHS backed graduate scheme which is rapidly expanding and looking for graduates to join as Employment Specialists who will help to place people with mental illness in work. In that episode we explore IPS Grow and its application process in detail, have a listen HERE if you haven’t already done so. In the episode today we build on the first interview and go deeper as I speak with Charlotte Knighton, who has been working as an Employment Specialist in London for the last year. Charlotte spills the beans on what it is really like to work as an Employment Specialist for a trust in London, and what it is that you can expect to be doing on a day to day basis. We explore the types of clients you will be working with and their range of mental healthcare conditions. We touch upon the skills you really need for the role, and how you can prepare yourself ahead of your application. Charlotte shares her experience as a graduate going through the application process, and her top tips so you can stand out from the crowd, including her absolute number one tip that you need to make sure you are following.  No matter where you are in your job search, if you’ve thought of applying to IPS or not even heard of them, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/IPS2, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgement, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests! 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What it is really like to work as an Employment Specialist
  • What you can expect to be doing on a day to day basis
  • The types of clients you will be working with in the role.
  • Insider secrets of what you can expect at the IPS Grow assessment centre
  • Top tips for how to impress during the presentation
  • The challenges you will face as an Employment Specialist
  • Charlotte’s experience of going through the application process and her top tips for how you can stand out from the crowd.

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, and by email. So, something for everyone there.

Direct download: GJP-90.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:51pm GMT

Welcome to the 89th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, where we explore the impact of the coronavirus on your graduate job search, and the things you need to be doing now! We explore why you shouldn’t worry in the long term about the impact of the virus on your graduate job search, and the good news that companies are still hiring great graduate candidates. We cover why in these uncertain times you need to be having patience with graduate recruitment teams if you’re going through the process at the moment. We delve into why you shouldn’t expect to be doing any face to face interviews anytime soon, and as a result why you need to be practicing your video interviews right now! No matter where you are in your graduate job search, if you’re still thinking of who to apply to, or in the graduate application process for someone at the moment, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/coronavirus, as that has a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you shouldn’t worry in the long term about the impact of the virus on your graduate job search
  • How companies are still hiring great graduate candidates
  • Why you need to be having patience if you’re going through the process at the moment
  • Why you need to be practicing video interviews right now!

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, and by email. So, something for everyone there.

Direct download: GJP-89.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:47pm GMT

Welcome to the 88th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and today I have a very special guest for you on a topic which can strike fear into the hearts of many a listener. Yes, I revisit the topic of how to pass the online psychometric, verbal, numerical, personality, behavioural and situational judgement tests that you will have to face when you apply for a graduate job. I’m joined by testing expert Arbel Yellin from the online testing site JobTestPrep, who have helped hundreds of thousands of graduates from around the world get ready and practice for these vital tests. In today’s episode we explore everything to do with online assessments for graduate jobs and just why it is so important to make sure that you practice, practice and practice. We cover, the one thing you NEED to be doing during graduate job online tests, strategies for passing situational judgement tests, and insider secrets for numerical and verbal reasoning tests. We look into exactly how many questions you need to be answering, and the % you need to be getting correct on each test. We delve into whether you should ever be guessing, and the power of making educated guesses. We also touch upon how JobTestPrep’s ‘Prep Packs’ can set you up for online testing success. Stayed tuned to the end of the episode as well as we also have a special listener offer to get 15% off all of the JobTestPrep site. No matter where you are in your job search, if you’re still thinking of who to apply to or in the graduate application process for someone at the moment, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/JobTestPrep, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The one thing you NEED to be doing during graduate job online tests
  • Strategies for passing situational judgement tests
  • The number of questions you need to be answering, and the % you need to be getting correct on each test
  • Insider secrets for passing online assessments
  • Top tips for acing numerical and verbal reasoning tests
  • Why educated guesses can be so crucial to achieving top marks
  • How company specific ‘Prep packs’ from Job Test Prep can set you up for online testing success.

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, and by email. So, something for everyone there.

Direct download: 88_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:45pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 87th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where I am joined back on the show by best-selling author John Lees, who joins us to talk about everything you need to do get ahead when you do get a graduate job. We delve into John’s new book and explore what you should, and more importantly should not do, in your first 100 days of your new graduate job. We explore exactly why the first 100 days of your new graduate job are so crucial, and why how you perform here could impact your career going forward. We cover the induction period, and why you should accept the fact that it’s probably not going to be as comprehensive as you were promised. We examine the key mistakes that new graduates make when they join a firm, and what you need to do to avoid them. We probe the topic of communication, and why listening and effectively communicating with senior people will set you on the path to career success. We also cover the difference between active and passive behaviours, and why embracing active behaviours will allow you to stand out from your peers. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/getahead, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why the first 100 days of your new graduate job are so crucial
  • How to make an impact in your new job immediately
  • Why you shouldn’t expect the induction period of your new graduate job to be what you were promised
  • The key mistakes that new graduates make when they start their first job
  • The importance of effectively communicating with senior people when you start
  • Why listening effectively could set you apart from the other graduates
  • How to navigate the minefield of office politics in your new graduate job
  • The difference between active and passive behaviours, and why embracing active behaviours can set you up for career success
Direct download: GJP-87.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:07am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 86th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where I am joined on the show by IPS Grow. IPS stands for Individual Placement and Support, and it is a NHS backed graduate scheme which is rapidly expanding and looking for graduates to join as Employment Specialists who will help to place people with mental illness in work. It’s a great graduate scheme encompassing a mix of social work, psychology, recruitment, where you will be making a real difference to people’s lives. In the episode we delve into what exactly IPS Grow is and what you will be doing on a day to day basis as an IPS Employment Specialist. We cover the application process in detail, how and when to apply, and what to expect at each stage of the process. We also explore top tips which will allow you to stand out from the crowd through the recruitment process. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, if you’ve never heard of IPS Grow, or are in the middle of the application process to them, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember form today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/IPS, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What IPS Grow is
  • What you will be doing as an Employment Specialist
  • How IPS Grow are looking to rapidly expand the number of graduates they are taking on
  • How to apply and what to expect at each stage
  • The insider tips to stand out throughout the recruitment process
Direct download: GJP-86.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:26am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 85th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where I share with you 3 lessons you can learn from my coaching calls with clients as they apply for graduate jobs. As a career coach I work with clients who are applying for graduate jobs and internships, and in this episode I pick out and share 3 key lessons from these coaching sessions. We explore why you need to be thinking very carefully about what your unique selling points are as you apply for graduate jobs, why you need patience before you rush off and start applying for jobs, and finally why underestimating the psychometric tests could prove your undoing. Don’t worry if you have started applying already, as this is still an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/85, as that has all of the links to everything I discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you need to be thinking very carefully about what your unique selling points are as you apply for graduate jobs
  • Why patience is very much a virtue when you are applying for graduate jobs
  • Why underestimating psychometric tests can very quickly derail your graduate job search

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on ItunesSpotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

Direct download: GJP-85.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:54am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 84th of the episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where I run through the 4 things you need to be doing before you start applying for a graduate scheme. I take you through my top tips to ensure that you get your graduate job applications off to a smooth start, and don’t fall for the common mistakes that applicants tend to make. Don’t worry if you have started applying already, as this is still an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/planning, as that has all of the links to everything I discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you need to know which graduate jobs you are applying to
  • Why you need to be researching the chosen companies like crazy
  • The importance of really knowing why you are applying to each company
  • The value of practicing now for the psychometric tests!

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on ItunesSpotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

Direct download: GJP-84.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:55am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 83rd of the episode of the Graduate Job Podcast where I am re-joined on the show by career expert John Lees as we discuss having a smarter search for a graduate job. John shares some absolute job search advice gold in this episode as we cover hints and tips for how you can be smarter and more efficient in how you go about getting a graduate job. We explore the idea of your ‘confidence window’ when you apply for jobs, what it is and why it is crucially important. We delve into rookie mistakes that most graduates make when they apply for a graduate job, and how you can avoid them to set yourself apart from the crowd. We touch upon dealing with rejection when you apply for a graduate job, and how to interpret the responses (or lack of responses) that you might get from an employer. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, if you’ve started applying, or still thinking about which jobs to apply to, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/smart, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Hints and tips for having a smarter graduate job search
  • What your ‘confidence window’ is, and why it is crucially important when you are applying for graduate jobs
  • The top ‘myths’ you need to avoid when you are applying for a graduate job
  • The rookie mistakes that most graduates make when they apply for a graduate job
  • Why ‘following your curiosity’ is the golden rule which will help you find a graduate job you love
  • How you need to interpret a rejection you receive for a graduate job
  • Learn why focussing too much on your recent academic experience is a rookie mistake when applying for a graduate job
Direct download: GJP-83.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:45pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 82nd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UK's number 1 careers podcast. I have a very special guest today who will entertain you with their silky and dulcet tones…..Ok, maybe I don’t, as today you just have the pleasure of yours truly to take you through the pros and cons of getting a job on a graduate scheme. You know how it is, there is lots of money spent marketing the big graduate schemes, they come and travel round to your universities on the Milkround, they have the glossy adverts in the careers magazines and the Times Top 100 Graduate employers list, but are they worth all of the effort and energy it takes to get them?  I explore in detail the reasons why you should apply for a graduate scheme and also some reasons why they might not be the best place for you to begin your career. We delve into the advantages offered by companies on their graduate schemes and also the disadvantages you will face on them. At the end of the day it’s always going to be a personal choice as to what is right for you, but this will give you plenty of food for thought that you are making the correct decision. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, still applying, or maybe in a job which isn’t rocking your world, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember from today is www.graduatejobpodcast.com/graduatescheme, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

 

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The advantages of starting your career on a graduate scheme
  • Some of the pitfalls you could face on a graduate scheme
  • Why you should go into a graduate scheme with your eyes open as to what you will face
  • Which industries pay the highest graduate scheme starting salaries
  • How structured career progression on a graduate scheme could set you up for success, or hold you back
  • How working on a graduate scheme could be the most enjoyable time of your working life
  • Why you shouldn’t let the fact that getting on a graduate scheme is difficult stop you
Direct download: GJP-82.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:53am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 81st episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and I’ve got a special guest for you today, career expert and fellow podcast host, Scott Barlow. In this episode we delve into the topic of finding a graduate job that is going to fit you like a glove. We explore what will make you happy at work, and equally importantly what is going to make you unhappy and a few brilliant experiments, such as the ‘social Goldilocks’ experiment, so that you can to discover this before you start working there. We explore Scott’s story of how suffering from anxiety attacks at work at the age of just 23 led him to craft a career that he truly enjoys, and he gives you brilliant tips to allow you to do the same. Scott shares some insightful questions that you need to be asking yourself so you can discover that sweet spot between what you enjoy doing and what you are good at, which is going to help ensure you are happy at work. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, still applying, or maybe in a job which isn’t rocking your world, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Now the only link you need to remember form today is https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/fit, as that has all of the links to everything which we discuss and a full transcript which you can download, so make sure you head on over there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to find a graduate job that fits
  • Questions you need to ask yourself before you apply for a graduate job
  • Signs to look out for that will tell you you need to change jobs
  • Brilliant jobsearch experiments which will help you to decide what is the right job for you
  • Why you need to be looking for the sweet spot between what you enjoy and what you are good at
  • How to analyse your previous work experience for hidden clues about what will make you happy at work

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out check out https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

Direct download: GJP-81.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:04pm GMT

A warm welcome to the 80th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and the first of 2019. And to kick off the new year do I have a cracker for you today. I have Elly Turnbull joining me on the show to discuss the brilliant summer internship opportunities which are available through the Change 100 scheme which is run by the Leonard Cheshire Trust, one of the UK's biggest disability charities. The scheme is targeted at giving talented disabled graduates the opportunities to kick-start their careers at some of the UK's biggest companies. Now not all listeners are going to be eligible for the scheme, but don’t stop listening, as you might be surprised at the wide range of disabilities and long-term health conditions that they are looking for, and as we discuss on the show, disability is such a personal thing and often people aren’t confident about disclosing them, so stay tuned. In the episode, we discuss all aspects of the Change 100 scheme, from what it is, the eligibility criteria, how many people they are taking on and how you apply. We delve into the application process in detail, looking at how to stand out in the online application, why you need to really know and think about the 7 competencies, and why you need to be using all of the 200 words at your disposal for each question. We explore what you can expect at a Change 100 assessment centre and why it really will be the nicest assessment centre you will ever attend. We discuss the measures they will put in place to make sure you feel comfortable on the day and how you can stand out and perform. No matter if you never heard of Change 100 or don’t consider yourself disabled, this is an episode you aren’t going to want to miss. As always, everything we discuss and a full transcript which you can download in handy PDF format can be found over at the show notes at https://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Change100.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What the Change 100 scheme is and how you can apply
  • The application criteria for applying to Change 100 and why it is broader than you might think
  • How to stand out from the crowd in your online application
  • The 7 competencies that you really need to understand and think about when you apply to Change 100
  • How the Change 100 assessment centre will be the friendliest and most accommodating assessment centre you will ever go to
  • Why Change 100 is about so much more than just a 3-month summer internship with a top graduate employer
Direct download: GJP-80.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:52am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 79th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and I’ve got a cracker for you today. Ever thought about a few different jobs and wondered what it would be like to try them out? Well my guest today did just that and then some. I’m joined by Emma Rosen, author of the new book ‘The Radical Sabbatical’, where she describes how she quit her dream job with the civil service fast stream to embark on an adventure to try 25 different jobs by the age 25. It’s an inspiring episode on many levels. In it Emma shares the emotions of getting the job of her dreams on the civil service fast stream and the inner turmoil she went through as she quit not long after, when she realised it wasn’t for her. She explores the background to embarking on 25 different jobs by the age of the 25 and how she went about getting those all important work placements. She shares brilliant insights into the mind-set, skills and approach needed to get work experience with any company, and why you shouldn’t be put off by thinking that it is a competitive industry that you are applying to. She also reveals her insider secrets of exactly what you need to do when you approach a company so that you get that vital yes to work experience. No matter where you are on your job search or if you haven’t thought about getting work experience or trying a work placement, this is an episode you aren’t going to want to miss. Now don’t worry about trying to remember everything you hear today, as a full transcript of today’s show and all the links we discuss can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/25. From there you will also find links to all of the other 78 episodes of the show which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love, to dealing with stress as you look for a graduate job. If it’s graduate job related, I have an episode on it. And If I haven’t got an episode on a subject, let me know and I will record one.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How Emma managed to pack in 25 work placements by the age 25
  • Emma’s brilliant method of contacting and approaching companies that proved so successful in getting her work experience placements
  • How to utilise work placements to shape and steer your career
  • Why the fact that an industry is competitive should spur you on and not scare you off
  • Why perseverance is so important when you are trying to get work experience
  • How working on an alpaca farm changed Emma’s views about what she wants from a career
  • How to impress and make the most of work placements
Direct download: GJP-79.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:31am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 78th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and boy do we have a goodie for you today as have part 2 of my 2 part special delving into the exciting graduate opportunities available with global confectionery and food giant Mars. Last week in part 1 we were joined by Fabio Alings who shared his experiences on the Mars Leadership Experience graduate scheme, and his 10-year journey from fresh-faced graduate to Global Director for one of their biggest brands. After whetting your appetite last week, this week we explore exactly what you need to do to get a graduate job with Mars, as I am joined on the show by Andrew Sharp, European Head of Early Talent at Mars. In our detailed interview, we dive into all aspects of the application process for the Mars graduate schemes and exactly what you need to do to bag that graduate job. We go step by step through the application process, from the grades you need to apply to how to stand out in the online application. We cover the different stages from the Skype interview to the online tests through to what to expect in the assessment centre itself, with its case study and face to face interviews. You’ll learn insider secrets for how you can stand out and put yourself head and shoulders above the other applicants, as you learn how to avoid being one of the 40% of people who fail at each step of the process. No matter if you have listened to episode one, or not thought in the past about applying to Mars, this is an episode that you won't want to miss.  Now don’t worry about trying to remember everything you hear today, as a full transcript of today’s show and all the links we discuss can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Mars2. From there you will also find links to all of the other 77 episodes of the show which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love, to dealing with stress as you look for a graduate job. If it’s graduate job related, I have an episode on it. And If I haven’t got an episode on a subject, let me know and I will record one.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.comCareer Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get a graduate job with Mars
  • What to expect throughout the application process when you apply for a graduate job with Mars
  • How to impress in your online application
  • The secrets for standing out in the Mars graduate assessment centre
  • Exactly what Mars are looking for from their graduates
  • How to impress in the Skype and face to face interviews
  • Learn how and why 40% of applicants fall at each stage of the application process
Direct download: GJP-78.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:59am GMT

Hello and welcome to the 77th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, and boy do we have a cracker for you today. Now I’ve covered lots of episodes looking at how to get a graduate job, but today’s episode is slightly different, firstly in that it is part 1 of a 2 part series focussing on the exciting graduate opportunities available with global confectionary and food giant Mars. It’s also different in that in this first episode we aren’t focussing on how to get a graduate job with Mars, but instead are looking at what you can expect as a graduate on the Mars Leadership Experience graduate scheme. I’m joined by Fabio Ailings, who started as a graduate on the Mars Leadership Experience programme, and he shares his experiences and journey in progressing from a fresh-faced graduate through to his current role as Global Director for one of their biggest pet care brands. Fabio shares his experiences of 10 years at Mars, from going through the application process for the graduate scheme, to the steep learning curve he faced as a new graduate. You’ll discover what it’s really like to work at a global giant like Mars, and gain a taster for some of the roles you could expect to be doing. Fabio also shares his insider secrets for applying for Mars, and also reveals the two characteristics that will help you be successful on the Mars Graduate scheme. No matter if you have thought of applying for Mars or not, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. As I mentioned this is just the first part in my 2 part special with Mars, and once this has wetted your appetite for a career with Mars, stay tuned for next week for my interview with Andrew Sharp, European Head of Early Talent at Mars, who shares everything you need to know to apply for a graduate job with them, from the initial application to standing out in an assessment centre. A couple of cracking episodes if I do say so myself.  Now don’t worry about trying to remember everything you hear today, as a full transcript of today’s show and all the links we discuss can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Mars. From there you will also find links to all of the other 76 episodes of the show which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love, to dealing with stress as you look for a graduate job. If it’s graduate job related, I have an episode on it. And If I haven’t got an episode on a subject, let me know and I will do done.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The graduate opportunities available at Mars
  • What it is like to join the Mars Leadership Experience graduate scheme
  • Why you should expect a steep learning curve as a new graduate at Mars
  • Discover the two characteristics that will help you be successful on the Mars Graduate scheme
  • Learn the insider secrets for applying to the Mars graduate scheme
  • What it is like to spend 10 years at Mars – journeying from new graduate to global director
  • Why you can expect constant development on the Mars Leadership Experience graduate scheme
Direct download: GJP-77.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:05pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 76th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. I’m back from my honeymoon with a cracker of an episode on an important topic which is often overlooked, but one that impacts everyone in different ways who applies for a graduate job. This week we explore dealing with anxiety and stress as you look for your dream job, as I speak with anxiety expert Nick Elston. We delve into, how to deal with anxiety and stress as you apply for a graduate job. How to recognise the trigger points of anxiety and stress, and top techniques and hints for dealing with it. We discuss your internal monologue and why you need to listen to how you talk to yourself when you apply for a graduate job, the dangers and advantages of social media, and importance of breathing correctly, visualisation, and other top brain hacks to help you with your graduate job applications. No matter where you are on your graduate job search, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, a full transcript of today’s show and all the links we discuss can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/anxiety. From there you will also find links to all of the other 75 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to deal with anxiety and stress as you apply for a graduate job
  • Techniques to de-stress before a job interview
  • Learn how to recognise the trigger points of anxiety when you apply for a graduate job
  • Discover why journaling is such a powerful tool to help you destress
  • Learn why talking about your job search anxiety is so useful
  • Discover why anxiety is healthy as you apply for graduate jobs
  • Why ‘managing today’ could be the secret to beating anxiety
  • Top brain hacks to help with your job applications
Direct download: GJP-76.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:04pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 75th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. The heatwave is continuing here in London and the summer is proving a cracker! This warm weather does make it difficult to knuckle down and do some work, so I hope your job preparation hasn’t been too badly impacted. Don’t worry if it has been, tomorrow is another day, and you can crack on from there. So enough of the waffle, lets’ crack straight into today’s episode, which is a certifiable cracker. Today I’m joined by qualified solicitor and the author of the excellent new book, "The Complete Guide to Getting a Solicitor's Training Contract", the multi-talented Sarah Cave. Now, if you’re not interested in a career in law don’t turn this off, as the episode is packed to the rafters full of amazing tips, hints and all round great advice that will apply no matter what sector or jobs you’re applying for. Getting a training contract as we discuss in the show is super competitive with tens of thousands of candidates vying for thousands of spaces and Sarah takes us through everything you need to know to bag yourself that training contract. We cover Sarah’s insider secrets on exactly what you need to put on your application to get past the initial stage. We look at the do’s and don’ts of applying for a training contract, and what you need to watch out for to make sure your application doesn’t end up in the bin, and as part of this why you need to apply sooner rather than later when trying to get a training contract. We cover some of the classic interview questions you will face and exactly how you need to answer them, and Sarah shares great insights into exactly how you can demonstrate commercial awareness in your application. We cover all stages of the application process, from the video interview through to the assessment centre and how to impress, and what to expect from the dreaded partner interview when you apply for a training contract. Phew, it’s a packed episode and whether you are interested in a law firm or not, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss.

As always all links, and a full transcript can be found in the shownotes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/trainingcontract.  From there you will also find links to all of the other 74 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong. 

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Just how competitive it is to get a training contract and why you need to put effort into your application
  • Why the research phase is so important as you apply for a training contract
  • The insider secrets of what you need to do to get a training contract
  • The language to use to ensure success on your application
  • What to expect throughout the application process for a training contract
  • How to stand out in the assessment centre for a graduate job with a law firm
  • How to impress in the dreaded partner interview
Direct download: GJP-75.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:27pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 74th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast.  I’ve gone trans-Atlantic again today to bring you a very special guest; best-selling author Scott Mautz joins me on the show for a thought provoking episode where we explore how to find an inspiring graduate job. Scott is the author of the new book ‘Find The Fire’, and we explore this in detail as we delve into what will fire you up and get you excited in your first graduate job, and conversely, what are the things which are going to pour cold water on that passion and have you looking to move on to a different job. We explore the topic of finding happiness at work, looking at how to find what will inspire you, even if you haven’t worked before. Conversely we also delve into 9 anti-muses to finding passion and inspiration at work, how you can recognise them, and what you can do to avoid them. We touch upon whether it’s realistic to expect to be inspired all of the time in your graduate job, and what to do if your current job doesn’t excite you. Scott also shares some brilliant insights into the topic of confidence, such as how to tackle a fear of failure when applying for a graduate job, and how to increase your self confidence in a job interview or assessment centre.  No matter where you are in your job search, just starting out or through the application process. This is an episode that you won’t want to miss.

As always all links, and a full transcript can be found in the shownotes at graduatejobpodcast.com/inspiration.  From there you will also find links to all of the other 73 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong. 

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out check out http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to find a graduate job which will inspire you
  • The 9 anti-muses which will drain your inspiration and passion at work
  • How to find what will inspire you, even if you haven’t worked before
  • Discover why it’s not realistic to be inspired all of the time in your graduate job
  • Exactly how to tackle a fear of failure when applying for a graduate job
  • How to increase your self confidence in a job interview or assessment centre
  • How to control your negative self-talk when applying for a job
  • How to decide if you are settling, or if it’s the right graduate job for you.
Direct download: GJP-74.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:58pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 73rd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. In this episode I speak with Paul Murphy, author of the brilliant new book 1000 Years of Career Advice, which details the careers journeys and advice of 100 graduates 10 years after graduation. In this episode we delve into the book in detail exploring some of the cumulative wisdom from the collective 1000 years of career advice. We explore some of the different career journeys that people have taken in those 10 years since leaving university, and look at the advice they give students who are just about to graduate. We cover the pros and cons of graduate schemes, why you shouldn’t stay in your first graduate job too long, and why travel and working abroad should definitely be on your agenda as a recent graduate. We touch upon the power of work experience, and why you really shouldn’t worry as you start out on your career. No matter where you are your jobsearch, just about to graduate or already searching for your first graduate job, this episode is packed full of brilliant advice and is one you definitely aren’t going to want to miss.

As always all links, and a full transcript can be found in the shownotes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/1000years.  From there you will also find links to all of the other 72 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong. 

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out check out http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at www.CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The top careers advices from 100 graduates 10 years after they graduated
  • Why you might end up using in your graduate job, less of the things you learnt in your university degree than you think
  • Why working abroad could be the best thing you could do for your career
  • The pros and cons of whether a graduate scheme is the best option for you
  • The power of work experience and why it might lead you into areas of work you hadn’t originally thought of
  • How non-linear most careers are, and why you shouldn’t worry if you think yours is taking a slight detour
  • Why you should be taking risks with your career in your 20’s!
Direct download: GJP_-_73.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:24pm GMT

Hello and welcome to the 72nd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UKs most popular careers and jobs podcast. The sun has been shining here in London, but it’s been no excuse for me not bringing you the brightest and the best job search advice. This week’s episode is an international one, as it came about from an email from Piers a listener in South Africa who wanted to know how could he change focus after a law degree and get a job as a coder, with no previous coding experience. My guest bringing his expert wisdom on the matter is Jason Swett from over in Michigan, USA, who is a developer, trainer, and the author of ‘Angular for Rails Developers’.

In this episode we delve into Piers question about getting your first job as a coder with no experience, exploring questions such as how do you get started, what programming language should you start learning, and what resources should you be looking at. We also explore how long it will take you before you are ready to start applying for a coding job, how to stand out in your applications and what you can expect throughout the interview process, and why you need to start applying for your first coding job before you think you’re ready. If you have ever thought about a career in programming and coding, then this is the episode for you.

As always all links, and a full transcript can be found in the shownotes at graduatejobpodcast.com/coding.  From there you will also find links to all of the other 71 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong. 

Don’t forget, also make sure you check out check out http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get a job as a coder and programmer without a degree
  • Learn the best coding language to use as a first time coder
  • Discover the top resources to use if you are starting out as a coder
  • Uncover why you need to start applying for your first coding job before you think you’re ready
  • Discover the key mistakes people make when applying for a graduate job in coding
  • What sets successful coders out from the crowd when applying for their first graduate job
  • How to ace a technical interview for your first job as a coder
Direct download: GJP-72.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:20pm GMT

A warm welcome to the 71st episode of the Graduate Job Podcast, the UKs most popular careers and jobs podcast. The sun might be shining in London, but it’s no excuse not to be thinking about getting a graduate job. And this week as always we have an amazing guest who can help you find that job of your dreams. Coming on the show for the second time, a true careers expert who you will have seen on the news, in the papers, on the book shelves, and back on the show, yes Corinne Mills author of many brilliant careers books, including her new book ‘Career Coach: How to plan your career and land your perfect job’. In this episode we delve into Corinne’s new book, exploring some of my favourite chapters which I know will help you as search for a graduate job. Amongst other things we cover top career blockers that might be holding you back and how to overcome them, such as concerns about not having the right skills or qualifications, not having the confidence, or worries about standing out. We discuss about making tough decisions in your graduate jobsearch, because at some point you’re going to have to make some, we cover the best ways to research companies, we delve into the topic and importance of values, and we also touch upon how drawing a picture of your world can help you find a graduate job, yep, you heard me right. It’s a wide ranging interview and we cover a load of different topics and I know you will enjoy it just as much as I did. As always all links, and a full transcript can be found in the shownotes at graduatejobpodcast.com/careercoach.  From there you will also find links to all of the other 70 episodes which cover every aspect of getting a graduate job, from help with interviews, assessment centres, to specific companies, to finding a job you love. Check them out and you won’t go far wrong. 

One question that did come up over the last 2 weeks from Tom was on the best to subscribe to the show. Well Tom, check out http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/subscribe which links to how to subscribe on Itunes, Spotify, Youtube, and by email. So something for everyone there.

And don’t forget to check out today’s sponsor who are our friends over at CareerGym.com. Career Gym is the number one place for you to undertake all of your psychometric tests which you will face when you apply for a graduate job. No matter what graduate job you apply for you’re going to have to face some type of verbal reasoning, situational judgment, and working style tests. You can practice these at CareerGym.com. Use code GJP to get 20% off all of their tests!

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Some of the common career blockers holding people back from their dream graduate job, such as;
    • How to get over your fear of failure
    • How to get over your fear of not standing out when you apply for a graduate job
    • How to get over your fear of not having the confidence
    • How to get over the blocker of not having the skills or qualifications
  • How drawing a picture of your world can help you find your dream graduate job
  • Why as graduate you need to be thinking about your values, and to link these to the companies you should be applying to
  • How to make tough decisions in your jobsearch
  • Why you need to go all in with your applications to companies, and not hold back
Direct download: GJP_-_71.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:50am GMT

A big hello and welcome to the 70th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. This week I speak with Tristram Hooley and Korin Grant, authors of the excellent new book "You're Hired! Graduate Career Handbook: Maximise Your Employability and Get a Graduate Job".  In this episode we delve into the book, exploring some of my favourite chapters which I know will help you as you search for a graduate job. Amongst other things we cover why personality tests are so important as you look for a graduate job, the power of utilising your university careers service, and how it could be your secret weapon in finding a job. We touch upon what to do when you don’t know what to do in your jobsearch, why you probably aren’t researching companies properly when you apply for work, and how you need to be doing it. Korin and Tristam also share why personality tests are so important as you look for a graduate job and why you need to be utilising your ‘weak ties’ when you are networking for your graduate job. No matter where you are on your jobsearch, starting at the beginning or deep in applications, this is an episode you aren’t going to want to miss!

Don’t forget, as always, all links to everything we discuss including a full transcript and book recommendations and web links can be found over in the show notes at www.GraduateJobPodcast.com/handbook.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you probably aren’t researching companies properly before you apply for a graduate job, and what you need to start doing
  • How your university careers service could be your secret weapon in finding a graduate job
  • Why you need to be actively trying to build you career capital
  • Why you should be utilising your ‘weak ties’ when you are networking for your graduate job
  • Find out why university careers services could be your secret weapon in helping you get a graduate job
  • Exactly why personality tests are so important as you look for a graduate job
  • Why you need to have a conversation with YOURSELF about what job you want to get
Direct download: GJP_-_70.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:06am GMT

In this 69th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast I continue in my quest to bring you the best and most interesting people to speak to about getting a graduate job, as once again I’ve gone transatlantic and am this week speaking to Dr Colby Jubenville over in the USA. In this episode we delve into finding fulfillment at work, examining questions such as why you should look for gainful employment and not just employment, and why you need to find your ‘voice’ in what you do. We also cover why your 20’s in the most important decade of your life, and how conducting a personal assessment is so important to your long-term career success. Amongst other topics we also touch on why you should be thinking about personal change and not personal development, and how natural curiosity can turbo-charge your job search. No matter what type of graduate job you are looking for, and no matter where you are on your job search, you will find nuggets of wisdom in my interview with Colby. Don’t forget, as always, all links to everything we discuss including a full transcript and book recommendations and web links can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Colby. 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The difference between employment and gainful employment
  • Exactly why it is so important to conduct a personal assessment
  • Why your 20’s are the most important decade of your life
  • How harnessing your natural curiosity will turbo charge your job search
  • Why you should try and get paid for your value and not your time
  • Why people don’t need personal development, they need personal change
  • How finding gainful employment is one of the biggest challenges that you will face
Direct download: GJP_-_69.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:35pm GMT

In this 68th episode of the Graduate Job Podcast I continue in my quest to bring you the best and most interesting graduate schemes out there. Last week, it was Charityworks, and this week it is one of the most well known companies in the country, you will use their services everyday, but probably might not have thought about them as a graduate employer, and you probably aren’t aware that they have 13 branches to their graduate scheme. Yes today I speak with John Hynard and Louisa Joseph from the excellent Royal Mail graduate scheme.

In this episode we explore the Royal Mail graduate scheme in detail, looking at what exactly it and their 13 different graduate opportunities that they have.  We delve into how you apply, the different stages of the application process, from initial application, through to the online tests they use, interviews and assessment centres. We cover what you need to do to impress at each stage and make sure you stand out from the crowd. We go into exactly what they are looking for from their grads, the roles and development opportunities they have on offer and how you will be pushing and challenging yourself from day 1. No matter what type of graduate job you are looking for, I’m sure you will be interested in one of the 13 graduate scheme opportunities which the Royal Mail has on offer. As always, all links to everything we discuss including a full transcript and John and Louisa’s top tips and book recommendations can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/RoyalMail. 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What the Royal Mail graduate scheme is and why you should apply
  • Top tips in how to stand out in your application for a graduate job with Royal Mail
  • What Royal Mail look for in their applicants
  • The secrets to impressing in a Royal Mail assessment centre
  • What to do to make your online application stand out from the crowd
  • Details of the 13 different graduate programmes that Royal Mail has
  • Why you will be challenging yourself from day one on the Royal Mail graduate scheme
Direct download: GJP_-_68.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:05am GMT

In episode 67 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by Craig Pemblington from the brilliant Charityworks graduate scheme. This episode came about from a listener request, TJ got in touch via email and asked about the best way to get a graduate job with a charity, well, as you will hear the answer to that question is the excellent Charityworks. In this episode we explore the Charityworks graduate scheme in detail, looking at what exactly it is and the types of charities that you could be working with. We delve into how you apply, the different stages of the application process, from initial application, through to the online tests they use, interviews and assessment centres. We cover what you need to do to impress at each stage and make sure you stand out from the crowd. We go into the charity matching process and how they match you with the charity that you will be working with, and we also cover the amazing alumni opportunities open to you as you progress with your career in the third sector. If you have ever thought about working with a charity, voluntary or community group, non-governmental, or non-profit organizational then this is the episode for you. As always, all links to everything we discuss including a full transcript and Craig’s book recommendations and top tips can be found over in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/charityworks.  

Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What Charityworks is and why you should apply
  • Top tips in how to stand out in your application for a graduate job with Charityworks
  • What Charityworks look for in their applicants
  • The secrets to impressing in a Charityworks assessment centre
  • What to do to make your online application stand out from the crowd
Direct download: GJP-67.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:25pm GMT

In episode 66 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by David Wain from the National Graduate Recruitment Exhibition, as we explore more about the exhibitions and how to make the most of graduate job fairs. We delve into the upcoming exhibitions in London and Birmingham, looking what they are, who will be attending, and how you can go about bagging a free ticket. We also examine graduate recruitment fairs more widely, touching upon how to stand out, the questions to ask, what to say, what not to say, what to wear, and how you can impress the graduate recruiters that you will speak to. No matter where you are in the world, if you have ever thought about attending a graduate recruitment job fair, then this is the show for you. As always there will be a full transcript of the episode and links to everything we discuss in the shownotes over at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/exhibitions so make sure you head on over there and check them out. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The upcoming National Graduate Recruitment Exhibitions in London on the 13th and 14th of October, and in Birmingham on the 3rd and 4th of November
  • How to stand out at a graduate recruitment job fair
  • What to say, and what NOT to say
  • How to make a good impression in the first 30 seconds
  • Why attending the National Graduate Recruitment Exhibition could boost you jobsearch
Direct download: GJP-66.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:03pm GMT

In episode 65 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Jane Fordham, from the award-winning communications agency Golin. Now you might not have heard about Golin, but just you wait till you hear about their amazing internships, the and innovative schemes that they have on offer.  In this half-hour we explore about their brilliant Unternship, yes you heard that right the Unternship, which involves 3 months of paid travel around the world, yep, you heard that right, 3 months not working, but traveling. We cover the firm more widely and what it is that they look for as a PR, creative and communications agency, and how to get yourself a graduate job there after university. We delve into their internships more generally, how you can apply, stand out, and impress throughout the process. If you’ve ever thought about working or applying for a comms or communications agency, then this is the episode for you. And if that thought has never crossed your mind, keep listening, as you’re going to want to apply when you hear more about Golin and what they offer. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes right this very moment at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Golin.  

More specifically in this episode you’ll learn about:

  • The amazing Unternship scheme which Golin run
  • How to get a graduate job with Golin in London
  • What work is like at an award-winning PR, creative and communications agency
  • How to stand out in an application to Golin
  • What it takes to succeed as an intern at Golin
  • Why you should think about working at a communications agency
Direct download: GJP-65.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:36pm GMT

In episode 64 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by MJ DeMarco, self-made millionaire and best-selling author of the Millionaire Fastlane and his latest book Unscripted. It’s a cracking episode where we explore amongst other things why you shouldn’t do what you love, why getting a job and working for someone else is inherently risky, and why trading time for money is a bad trade off. We also explore the secrets to starting your own business, how simple mathematics holds the key to being able to get rich quickly, and what might be holding you back from being an entrepreneur. Now if you have ever thought about starting your own business or not, this episode and MJ’s message is one you aren’t going to want to miss. As always there will be a full transcript of the episode and links to everything we discuss in the shownotes over at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/fastlane so make sure you head on over there and check them out. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

More specifically in this episode you’ll learn about:

  • Why you shouldn’t follow your passion and do what you love
  • What might be holding you back from being an entrepreneur
  • Why a job and trading time for money isn’t the best trade
  • Why getting a job is inherently risky
  • The difference between the sidewalk, the slowlane and Fastlane when it comes to wealth
  • How and why it is possible to get rich quickly
  • The secret to successfully starting your own business
Direct download: GJP-64.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:06pm GMT

In episode 63 of the Graduate Job Podcast I explore why you, yes you dear listener should get a mentor to help you as you look for a graduate job. We explore what exactly a mentor is and what they do. We discuss why they are so useful in helping you look for a graduate job, top tips for how you can find a mentor, and what exactly to say to them when you ask so that they say yes. We also delve into brilliant advice on how to set the relationship up at the beginning so that you both get something out of it. Now, if you’re listening to this thinking a mentor sounds a bit pretentious or too much like hard work, I can understand where you’re coming from, and after university I would have agreed, but…..stick with it, have a listen, because if you follow the advice in this episode and get a mentor, I guarantee it will improve your employability….guarantee it, or your money back…on this free podcast. As always, all links to everything we discuss today with links and full transcripts are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/mentoring. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

More specifically in this episode, you’ll learn about:

  • What exactly a mentor is and what they do
  • Why they are so useful in helping you look for a graduate job
  • Top tips for how you can find a mentor
  • The secret of what exactly to say to a mentor when you ask so that they say yes
  • Brilliant advice on how to set the relationship up at the beginning so that you both get something out of it
  • The inside track of how to be a good mentee
  • Why having a career mentor could set you up for graduate job success
Direct download: GJP-63.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:09pm GMT

In episode 62 of the Graduate Job Podcast I explore how to apply for a graduate job in a different country. In response to a reader question asking how to apply for a graduate job in the UK from Canada, I take you step by step through everything you need to know. We delve into different job search strategies, and whether it is better to start applying before you leave, or if you should just turn up and hit the job hunt when you get there. I take you through top tips with respect to UK visas, how to network successfully from abroad and why recruitment agencies could be your new best friend. We cover great tricks to make sure that you can build your network from your home country using LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. If you have ever thought about getting a graduate job in a foreign country, this is an episode which you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss today with links and full transcripts are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/workingabroad. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

More specifically in this episode you’ll learn about:

-       Winning job search strategies for applying for a graduate job from a different country

-       How a stint working abroad can add glamour to your CV

-       The importance of planning before you book your ticket

-       Top tips for networking remotely from a different country

-       Why you need to be using LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook to build your network

-       How to tailor your skills for your desired country

-       Why planning your arrival date carefully could be the most important thing you do.

Direct download: GJP_-_62.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:47pm GMT

In episode 61 of the Graduate Job Podcast I take you through my top 10 tips to help you get a graduate job if you have a 2.2 or 3rd class degree. Now you might be worrying that you won’t be able to get a graduate job, if you got a 2.2 or a third, but I’ll explain why you shouldn’t worry. I’ll take you through all my top tips and explain why you need to focus down on what you really want, why the job market isn’t as bleak as you might and why starting your career at a start-up or smaller company could be just what you need. I also delve into whether further study could be the answer, and how volunteering could set you apart from candidates who have a 2.1. I also cover the power of networking and why you shouldn’t discount starting your own business instead of getting a graduate job. No matter what degree classification you got, 2.2, 3rd, or 2.1 or a first, this is an episode that you aren’t going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss today with links and a full transcript are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/22. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • My top 10 tips to getting a graduate job with a 2.2 or 3rd class degree
  • Why companies are crying out for candidates with a 2.2
  • How companies have been relaxing their degree requirements for getting a graduate job
  • Why your degree might not matter as much you think
  • The importance of work experience in getting a graduate job with a 2.2 or 3rd
  • Why smaller companies and start-ups could hold the key to beginning your career
  • The power of networking in helping you to get your first job after university
  • How charity work could set you apart as you look for work
  • Why you might not need a graduate job at all if you start your own business
Direct download: GJP-61.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:48pm GMT

In episode 60 of the Graduate Job Podcast I bring you someone who knows the graduate recruitment business inside out, Sophie Milliken from Smart Resourcing Solutions. Sophie is a former graduate recruiter for John Lewis, the upmarket department store here in the UK, who left their to set up Smart Resourcing Solutions where she now designs and runs graduate recruitment schemes for many of the big high street companies that many of you will be applying to. This insight means that Sophie is ideally placed to spill the beans on exactly what you need to do to get that graduate job. We cover the ins and outs of the graduate recruitment process, looking at why only 3%, yes 3% of people made it through the online application stage at John Lewis, and what you need to do make sure that you are one of them. We cover psychometric testing, assessment centres, job interviews, group exercises, presentations, if it’s involved in the process we cover it, and look at top tips, insider secrets, and what you need to do stand out from the crowd and get the job. If you are going to be applying for a graduate job anytime soon then this is an episode that you aren’t going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss today with links and a full transcript are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/graduaterecruitment. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

You can listen to it here, or additionally, you can subscribe via Spotify, iTunes, or Stitcher radio.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why only 3% of the applicants to the John Lewis graduate scheme made it passed the online application
  • The key characteristics you need to succeed at a graduate job assessment centre
  • The secrets to standing out as you apply for a graduate job
  • Common mistakes that let people down in their online applications
  • Why straight A candidates often fall at the first hurdle when applying for a graduate job
  • How and why graduate recruitment schemes are developed
  • What assessors are really looking for at graduate job assessment centres
Direct download: GJP-60.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:52pm GMT

In episode 59 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am re-joined on the show by John Lees, bestselling author, career coach and all-round career expert as we delve into his new book Knockout Interviews, and explore how you can succeed in your graduate job interview.  In this half hour we explore everything you need to know to succeed in a graduate job interview. We cover why you need to think about your goals of a job interview, and why focussing on the 4 key pieces of information that you want to get across could set you apart from everyone else. We delve into how to answer the classic job interview questions you will face, top tips for answering graduate competency questions, and the different frameworks you can use to answer them. If you have a telephone, face to face or panel interview coming up, then this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/knockoutinterview. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

You can download the podcast to your computer or listen to it on the blog. Additionally, you can subscribe via Spotify, iTunes, or Stitcher radio.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to answer the key questions you will face in a graduate job interview
  • Top tips for answering graduate competency questions
  • Why you need to focus on the 4 key pieces of information you want to get across in the interview
  • The psychological contract you are making in a job interview
  • Why you need to think about the goals of a graduate job interviews
  • How to answer the classic question about your biggest weakness
  • The preparation needed to succeed in your job interview
Direct download: GJP-59.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:17pm GMT

In episode 58 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Maria Donovan, the recruitment director for Unlocked Grads, the innovative and brand new graduate scheme aimed at attracting top graduate talent into the Prison Service. In this half hour we explore their new graduate leadership development programme discussing what exactly the scheme entails, its intensive training, and what you will be doing over your initial 2 years. We smash some of the stereotypes associated with the Prison Service, what life as a prison officer is really like, and just how fit you need to be to pass the fitness requirements. We delve into the application process in detail, from the initial online application through to the assessment centre and how to impress in the role play. We look at what exactly they are looking for when you apply so that your application stands head and shoulders above everybody else. If you’ve ever thought about a career in the Prison Service, then this is the episode for you, and even if working as a prison officer has never crossed your mind, you need to keep listening to understand why it could be the perfect place to begin your career. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available right this very moment in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/unlockedgrads. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Unlocked Grads and their graduate leadership development programme
  • What life as a prison officer is really like, and how you will be changing lives UK
  • What you can expect from their intensive training programme
  • The secrets to impressing throughout the application process from the online application to the assessment centre
  • How to standout in the role plays at the assessment centre
  • The characteristics Unlocked Grads are looking for in their applicants
  • Why Unlocked Grads could be the perfect place to start your career
Direct download: GJP-58.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:26am GMT

In episode 57 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by Leanne Jacobs, holistic wealth expert and author of the excellent new book Beautiful Money. Leanne and I delve into her new book and explore exactly what the Beautiful Money concept is and why it is important in helping you find a graduate job. We discuss the epidemic of settling for a job that is ‘fine’, how you can avoid this trap, and tools to help you do so. We explore the secrets to using affirmations, and a vision board, and why these two tactics could revolutionise your approach to finding the job of your dreams. If you have ever been tempted by a job just because it has a nice salary, then this episode is for you. No matter where you are on your jobsearch, and no matter what type of job you are applying to, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/beautiful. Right, let’s head straight over to my chat with Leanne.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What beautiful money is and why it is important to finding a graduate job
  • How to avoid the ‘Grey Zone’ of feeling just ‘fine’ at work
  • Why you shouldn’t take a job out of fear
  • The secret to using affirmations to revolutionise your jobsearch
  • Why you should think like a CEO as you look for work
  • Exactly why you should develop a vision board to help you get a job
  • How 20 seconds of pure bravery is all you need to apply for your dream job
Direct download: GJP-57.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:19pm GMT

In episode 56 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by former Royal Marine Craig Williams, as we discuss what you need to do get into the Royal Marines. Craig shares nuggets of wisdom gained on the ground from his 15 years with one of the UKs elite fighting units as we discuss how you too can earn a green beret and get into the Royal Marines. We cover top tips including the number 1 characteristic that will help you succeed as a Royal Marine, the different entry routes and why even if you have a degree you shouldn’t automatically join as an officer. We cover the mindset needed to see you through the legendary 32 weeks basic training, and the physical challenges and tests you will face along the way to getting there.  Now don’t worry if the armed forces isn’t you thing, as Craig also reveals insights into the key secret that might be holding you back from the job of your dreams, no matter what area you are applying to. No matter where you are on your jobsearch, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/royalmarines. Right, let’s head straight over to my chat with Craig.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The secrets behind the Potential Officers Course
  • How ‘confidence’ is the one muscle you need to build to get you through the training
  • Why women shouldn’t be put off from joining the Royal Marines
  • The biggest hurdle that holds people back from applying to the Royal Marines
  • What to expect at the Naval Service Recruiting Test
  • What to expect in your formal interview
  • How to increase your chances of being part of the 0.01% of people who actually get into the Royal Marines
Direct download: GJP-56.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:31am GMT

In episode 55 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am re-joined by one of my most popular guests, Steve Rook, as we discuss his new book Work Experience, Placements and Internships. In this episode Steve shares his brilliant  insights and tips into how to go about getting that ever so important work experience. We discuss the difference between work experience, internships and placements, why you really need to try and get them, and the real reason why they will set you apart in your jobsearch. We cover the thorny topic of unpaid, versus paid work experience, we explore just why sandwich placements make such a difference to your career prospects and why you should think about going abroad to get work experience, and how it might be cheaper than you think. Once you got some work experience we then look into how to hit the ground running and make it success. In short, if you’ve ever thought about trying to get work experience or an internship, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/workexperience. Right, let’s head straight over to my chat with Steve.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The difference between work experience, work placements and internships
  • Why you NEED to get work experience
  • The REAL reason work experience will set you apart
  • How it is NEVER too late to get work experience
  • Why sandwich placements are the gold standard of work experience
  • Why you should think about doing your work experience, internship or placement abroad
  • How to hit the ground running in your work experience, internship or placement
Direct download: GJP-55.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:42am GMT

In episode 54 of the Graduate Job Podcast I am joined by Jeff Kavanaugh, VP and Managing Partner at global consulting giant, Infosys, as he shares his insights and tips into how to start your career as a management consultant. As head of campus recruitment for Infosys, Jeff is able to share brilliant advice on all aspects of the management consulting recruitment process. We cover the skills needed to excel in consulting, how to make the most of a management consultancy recruitment event, and how to make that all important good first impression. We also delve deep into the dreaded consulting case study, examining what they are, the different types of structured and unstructured case study questions that you might face, through to Jeff’s brilliant advice on how to answer them with ease every time. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, and no matter what companies you are applying to, this is an episode which you are not going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/consulting. Right, lets head straight over to my chat with Jeff.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The skills needed to excel in management consulting
  • The importance of goal setting in getting a job as a consultant
  • How to make the most of a management consultancy recruitment event
  • How to make a good first impression at consulting job interview
  • The secrets of acing a consulting case study
  • The types of case study questions you will face and how to answer them
  • What to expect from a partner interview
Direct download: GJP_-_54.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:52pm GMT

Episode 53 of the Graduate Job Podcast is part 2 of a 2 part retrospective where I include some of my favourite short clips from my previous 50 episodes. Every episode is of course brilliant and chock-a-block full of great insights to help you get your dream graduate job, but in these 2 specials I wanted to pick out some short clips which I enjoy that you might not have come across before. We explore how fear could be holding you back from getting your dream job, we cover superb advice on how to make sure you stand out in a job application, and top tips for acing a graduate job interview. We also delve into why getting a job is like dating, and share some secrets behind impressing at a graduate assessment centre. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, this is an episode which you are not going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/greatesthits2. Right, let get straight to the good stuff, and part 2 of my greatest hits.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The secrets behind impressing at a graduate assessment centre
  • Top tips for acing a graduate job interview
  • The key mistake not to make when using the STAR methodology from competency answers
  • Why getting a job is like dating
  • Why targeting smaller companies could be the key to getting a graduate job
  • The fears that could be holding you back in your job search
  • How to negotiate your salary to earn you thousands extra
Direct download: Greatest_Hits_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:51am GMT

Episode 52 of the Graduate Job Podcast, is part of 1 of a 2 part retrospective where I include some of my favourite short clips from my previous 50 episodes. Every episode is of course a winner and packed full of great insights to help you get your dream job, but in these 2 specials, I wanted to pick out some short clips which I enjoy that you might not have come across before. We explore the importance of values with Jane Sunley and David Shindler, the criticality of having a ‘Why’ with motivational speaker Brad Burton, while Jennifer Holloway touches upon why it is crucial to be true to yourself in your job search. Career coaches John Lees and Richard Maun meanwhile share brilliant insights into how to network and have great conversations, which are going to turbo charge your job hunt. Karen Kelsky shares her thoughts on why getting a job can be like dating, before Simon Reichwald explores how you can differentiate yourself to ensure that you stand out in your job applications. No matter where you are in your jobsearch, this is an episode which you are not going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/greatesthits1.   Right, lets get straight to the good stuff, and part 1 of my greatest hits.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you need think to think about the importance of your values BEFORE you start applying for work
  • The ONE question to ask which is guaranteed to help you on your jobsearch
  • Why getting a job is like dating
  • How thinking about your personal brand can set you apart from all other candidates
  • Why a 2:1 wont set you apart, and why differentiating yourself is so important to finding a graduate job
  • The importance of having a ‘why’ that keeps you going as you look for work
  • Why being yourself is crucial to finding a job which will make you happy in the long run
Direct download: GJP_-_52.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:58am GMT

In episode 51 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Amba Brown, author of the excellent ‘Finding Your Path, A Guide to Life and Happiness After School’.  In this interview we explore her book and the different pathways you can explore after university. We touch upon exploring the world, starting your career, continuing your career to finding your own way. We delve into why you should set your goals once you finish university, the importance of setting off to travel, and why you should always be working on your own personal project. If you’re feeling stuck at a career crossroads and not sure which way to go, or have recently graduated and feeling lost, then this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/findingyourpath.   Right, let’s not mess about, and jump straight to my chat Amba Brown.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The different options and pathways to explore after finishing your degree
  • Why thinking about smiling could be crucial to your career path post university
  • The importance of momentum once you have graduated
  • Why a personal project could set you up for career success
  • Inspirational ideas to get you thinking if you are stuck at a crossroads after university
  • Why you should maybe think about grabbing a rucksack and setting off to see the world
Direct download: GJP_-_51.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:56am GMT

In episode 50 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Hannah Salton, Graduate Recruitment Manager at international law firm Allen and Overy. In this half hour we explore the different options available to graduates at Allen & Overy, from their sought after training contracts, to their vacation schemes and open days. We delve into the application process for the training contracts, the different methods of entry, what they look for from candidates and how to ensure you stand out throughout the application process. We also explore the vacation schemes in detail and look at whether this is really the easy way in for a career in law. You might be surprised at some of the answers.  If you’ve ever thought about a legal career, then this is definitely the episode for you. Even if working for a law firm has never crossed your mind, keep listening to understand why over half of the graduates that Allen and Overy take on didn’t study law at university. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/allenandovery.   Right, let’s not mess about, and jump straight to my chat Hannah from A&O.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What A&O are really looking for from their applicants
  • The secrets to impressing through the online application
  • Whether a vacation placement with A&O is a shortcut to landing a training contract
  • What to expect from the application process at Allen and Overy
  • Whether Allen & Overy prefer candidates through a Legal Practice Course (LPC), or Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
  • Why the odds of getting a training contract with Allen and Overy might be better than you think
Direct download: GJP_-_50.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:35pm GMT

In episode 49 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Dave Spencer, C.E.O. and co-founder of Police Now, the innovative new graduate scheme aimed at attracting top graduate talent into the police force. In this half hour we explore their new graduate leadership development programme discussing what exactly the scheme entails, its intensive training, and what you will be doing over your initial 2 years. We delve into the application process in detail, from the initial online application through to Skype interview, role plays and assessment centre, looking at how you apply, and more importantly how to make sure that your application stands head and shoulders above everybody else. If you’ve ever thought about a career in the police, then this is the episode for you, and even if joining the police has never crossed your mind, you need to keep listening to understand why over the half the people who joined them last year originally said that they wouldn’t have thought about joining the police but for Police Now. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/policenow .  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Police Now and their graduate leadership development programme
  • How you will be changing lives in challenged areas of the UK
  • What to expect from their intensive training programme
  • The secrets to impressing throughout the application process
  • What to expect from the role plays at the assessment centre
  • The importance of being yourself and not trying to ‘fake it till you make it’
  • Why Police Now could be the perfect place to start your career
Direct download: 49-GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:44pm GMT

In episode 48 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Ashley Hever, Director of Talent Acquisition at Enterprise Rent-A-Car, as we discuss their award winning graduate scheme. In this half hour we explore their graduate management trainee scheme, examining what exactly it is, how you apply, and how you can stand out from the crowd when you apply. We discuss the application process in detail, their brilliant internship schemes and also cover why Enterprise Rent-A-Car could be the ideal place to start your career. No matter what graduate scheme you are applying to, Ashley’s insight and advice means that this is an episode that you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/enterprise.  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The graduate schemes on offer at Enterprise Rent-A-Car
  • Top tips for your online application
  • How to impress at the assessment centre
  • How an internship at Enterprise could land you a graduate job
  • Why you need to pop into an Enterprise branch to say hello
  • The secrets to impressing in the role play exercise
Direct download: 48_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:09am GMT

In episode 47 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by salary negotiation coach and bestselling author of the excellent Fearless Salary Negotiation, Josh Doody, as we discuss how to successfully negotiate your salary. In this half hour Josh shares some brilliant insights into how to increase your pay, whether you’re going for your first graduate job, or simply looking for a raise at your existing work place. We delve into why people can be scared to try to negotiate their salary, and why you need to understand your current market rate of pay before you do so. We examine how to answer the dreaded salary questions of ‘how much do you currently earn?’, and ‘how much are you looking for?’, and also explore why should always make a counteroffer to every salary that is proposed. No matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode which will put money in your pocket. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/salary.  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get over your fear of negotiating your salary
  • Why you should always negotiate your salary?
  • The importance of understanding your current market rate of pay
  • Why you should always make a counteroffer to every salary you are offered
  • How to avoid the dreaded salary question of ‘how much do you currently earn?’
  • Why you should be thinking about the minimum salary that you would accept
  • Brilliant answers to the question about your desired rate of pay
Direct download: 47_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:54pm GMT

In episode 46 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by award winning fashion blogger and social media manager Tamara McCleary, who shares her inspirational story of how she landed her dream job with the help of her fashion blog. In this half hour Tamara details the background to her fashion blog Bonafide Supernova, how it has grown, top tips for starting your own blog, and how it led to her current job as a social media manager. It’s an inspiring story, and no matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode you will not want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/supernova.  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you just a minute, so if the podcast is helping you, please show your appreciation and check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Top tips to starting your own blog
  • The importance of choosing a blog topic you are passionate about
  • Why experience trumps everything when it comes to your jobsearch
  • How to create content so that recruiters come to you
  • Why you should think about partnering with someone to kickstart your blog
  • The importance of networking and promoting your blog
  • Why it’s not a question of quitting, but about stepping up your game
Direct download: 46_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:18am GMT

In episode 45 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by innovative blogger Raghav Haran, as we discuss how to land any job you want, even if you’re not qualified. In this half hour Raghav shatters some of the conventional myths about what you need to do to get a job as we explore what companies really want from their candidates, the more effective option for getting than a job than sending hundreds of speculative CVs, and how creating a pre-interview project can be the secret to getting you your dream job.  No matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode you will not want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/landanyjob.  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to get any job, even if you’re not qualified
  • What companies REALLY want from their candidates
  • Why sending speculative CVs is a waste of time
  • The importance of speaking to people doing the job you want to do
  • Why you need to do a pre-interview project to stand out
  • The dangers of putting a particular job on a pedestal
  • Why you shouldn’t be scared of closing down your job options
Direct download: 45_-_LAJYW.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:26pm GMT

In episode 44 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined again by one of my most popular guests, career coach and best-selling author John Lees, as we delve into his new book, The Success Code. John shares his expert advice on the tips, tricks and strategies you need to employ to ensure that your job search is a success. We explore why you need to think about self-projection and not self-promotion as you look for a job, why you definitely shouldn’t be trying to sell yourself, and the power of asking questions. No matter where you are on your job search, this is an episode you will not want to miss. As always, all links we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/success.  Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How to talk about yourself in an authentic way
  • Why you need self-projection and not self-promotion when it comes to your job search
  • The power of utilising your alumni network to find a job
  • Why you should ask yourself, what does this person need to commit to the next step?
  • What you can learn from a stand-up comedian to improve your job search
  • Why you shouldn’t be trying to sell yourself
  • The power of asking questions
Direct download: 44_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:06pm GMT

In episode 43 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Rob Blythe founder of graduate recruitment agency Instant Impact, as we explore how to successfully use a graduate recruitment agency. We delve into why you should think about using a graduate recruitment agency, what they look for in their candidates, and how they can fast track you through to the later stages of the recruitment process. Rob takes us through what you need to do to stand out as a candidate, the importance of spending the time to really think about your career,  to why an SME or start up company could be the ideal place for you to start working. No matter where you are on your job search this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/instantimpact.  Before we start many thanks to those of you who have completed the survey over at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear I look forward to hearing your thoughts.  Right, let’s get on to the good stuff.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • How a graduate recruitment agency can accelerate your job search
  • What graduate recruitment agencies look for in candidates
  • Why a SME or start up could be the ideal place to start your graduate career
  • Why you should be thinking about an internship
  • Common mistakes candidates make
  • How to ensure your application stands out from the crowd
  • Why you should think about your career IQ
Direct download: 43_-_Instant_Impact.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 7:16am GMT

In episode 42 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Andras Baneth, a former EU official, founder of EUTraining.eu, and the author of The Ultimate EU Test Book, as we explore how to pass the EPSO test, and work for the institutions and agencies of the European Union. We delve into the intricacies of the EPSO or European Personnel Selection Office test to give it its full title. This testing process stands between you and a job in the institutions of the EU, such as The European Parliament, The European Council, The European Commission to name but a few. We explore all aspects of the EPSO test, from how to apply, to how to ensure that you are fully prepared for the rigorous application process. We take you through the psychometric testing, the EPSO assessment centre, what you can expect in the case study, through to the new intermediate test phase. No matter where you live in the world, this episode is for you, as we explore the EUs internship scheme which is open to applicants from around the world.  As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/EPSO. Before we start many thanks to those of you who have completed the survey over at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear. I’ve times it and it takes less than 90 seconds to do, so please do get on over to www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey and help me out. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.  

As you’ll hear in the show, passing the ESPO tests requires a lot of practice and hard work, so I’m pleased to say Andras has offered you my amazing listeners a very special 15% discount on his excellent website at www.eutraining.eu, where you can practice super realistic EPSO style tests, track your progress and make sure you’re ready for the real exams. Simply enter the code EUJOB2016 on the checkout page, that’s EUJOB2016, to get 15% off. See the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/epso for more information. Right, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • All aspects of the European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) test
  • How to successfully pass the pre-selection EPSO tests
  • Why you need to be at the top of your game when it comes to psychometric testing
  • The secrets of the EPSO assessment centre
  • What you can expect from the ESPO case study
  • How to pass the EPSO intermediate test
  • How you can apply for an internship with the EU, no matter where you live
Direct download: 42_-_EPSO.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:19am GMT

In episode 41 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by Annabel Smoker, author of the excellent new book, ‘Launching Your Career in Nursing and Midwifery’. As lecturer in nursing and faculty lead for employability at the University of Southampton, Annabel is ideally placed to share exactly what you need to do to get your first job as a graduate nurse. We explore the current job market for graduate nurses, how you can explore your career options, how to create a brilliant application which will you get you results, through to the impressing at the interview stage. If you’re studying nursing, or thinking of it as a career, this is an episode for you. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/nursing. Before we start many thanks to those of you who have completed the survey over at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear. I’ve times it and it takes less than 90 seconds to do, so please do get on over to www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey and help me out. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The current job market for graduate nurses
  • How to explore your career options
  • How to be proactive and make connections with employers
  • The importance of a great job application
  • How to write a nursing personal statement that will get you the job
  • What the graduate nursing selection process involves
  • Top tips to ensure you get your first choice job
Direct download: 41_-_Nursing.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:13pm GMT

In episode 40 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by content marketing guru Chris Marr, as we explore all aspects of getting a job in content marketing. As the founder of the Content Marketing Academy and Host of the Content Marketing Academy podcast, Chris is ideally placed to share exactly what you need to do to get started in this booming field. We explore the basics, from what exactly content marketing is, how and why you need to start building your brand online, to the key hints, tips and skills that will get you ahead as you start your career. It doesn’t matter if you’re a newbie to content marketing, or already have your own online platform, there is something in this episode to inspire you. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/content. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/. I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What exactly content marketing is
  • Why now is the perfect time to get started in content marketing
  • How you can get involved at university and begin to build your brand online
  • Why you need to start a blog to get ahead in content marketing
  • The key skills that will set you apart when you apply for content marketing jobs
  • How you can move from being a consumer on content, to a curator, then creator of content
  • Why the number one thing you need to do is to START!
Direct download: 40_-_Content_Marketing.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:07pm GMT

In episode 39 of the Graduate Job Podcast, I am joined by author and Career Coach Matt Hearnden, as we discuss his latest book ‘18 ignored and unusual ways to get a graduate job’. As a former graduate recruiter Matt has a wealth of insight into how you can get a graduate job, whether with one of the big graduate schemes or a small start-up. We delve into some of the 18 unusual tips from his book which range from ideas to help you think about what you really want to do, and what’s important to you in a job, to tactical tips which will ensure that you stand head and shoulders above all of the other applicants. It doesn’t matter where you are on your job search, or the type of company you are applying to, there is something in this episode that will help you bag that job. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Matt. As an added incentive to head over there, you can download a free copy of the book itself. Yes that’s free, so don’t say I never give you anything. So that’s www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Matt. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • Why you need to be doing something everyday as you look for a job
  • The value of asking what is important to you
  • How starting a blog can set you apart from all the other job applicants
  • The importance of being specific, and why it can make the difference to your job search
  • Why you need to be using the website Quora
  • How doing one more thing can change your life
  • Why you should really think about giving up….yes giving up!
Direct download: 39_-_18_Unusual_Tips.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:14pm GMT

In episode 38 of the Graduate Job Podcast, we cover how to effectively use social media in your graduate job search, as I speak with careers advisor, author and social media expert Marielle Kelly. We examine everything you need to know to utilise social media tools to help you get a graduate job, covering Twitter, LinkedIn, blogging, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and everything in-between. From how to create the profiles, through to using them to research companies, reach out to people, and to make a mark online. It doesn’t matter if you’re a social media demon, or complete newbie, we have something in this episode to blow your socks off. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/marielle. Before we start a quick request from me, your feedback helps me to create the episodes you want to hear, so I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts. But in the meantime, let’s crack on with the show.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The social media tools that you should be using in your graduate job search
  • How to create an amazing LinkedIn profile as a graduate job seeker
  • How to connect to employers using LinkedIn
  • Why you need to be on Twitter
  • Top tips for using Twitter to boost your jobsearch
  • How to build connections in any industry using social media
  • Why you should definitely think about starting a blog
Direct download: 38_-_Social_Media.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:59pm GMT

For episode 37 of the Graduate Job Podcast, by popular request we cover assessments centres, as I speak with career coach and assessment centre expert Kath Houston. We delve into what assessment centres are, what companies are looking for from them, through to how you can stand out in the group exercises, presentations, and job interviews. If you’ve applied or are thinking of applying for a graduate job then this is going to be an episode you will not want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/ac. Before we start a quick request from me, I’ve set up a super simple and very quick survey, as I want the show to best serve your needs. It’s got 5 questions and will take you a minute, so please check it out at http://www.graduatejobpodcast.com/survey/ . I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What exactly an assessment is, and what you will be doing
  • What companies are looking for throughout the day and how you will be assessed
  • How to stand out during the group exercise
  • How to impress during the presentation stage
  • Top tips for acing the job interview
  • The importance of having the correct mindset walking into the assessment centre
  • Why you should be confident that you will get the job!
Direct download: 37_-_Assessment_Centres.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 8:19am GMT

For episode 36 of the Graduate Job Podcast we niche down, as we delve into what you need to do to get a job in the field of property, with special guest and property guru Rob Bence. If property is your thing we have all the bases covered, but if not, you’ll still want to keep listening, as Rob shares some absolute dynamite insights into how to get any job. We cover the difference between A and B players, and why B player’s applications end up in the bin. What to say to an employer when you’re applying for an internship or work experience to ensure you get a yes. Why and how you can reverse engineer the job application process so that you know exactly what the interviewer is looking for, through to why you should never carpet bomb job applications. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/property. Before we start don’t forget, I love to hear your feedback so do get in touch either by email or twitter, on twitter I’m @GradjobPodcast, and email is hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. What you love, people or companies you’d like to see on the show, I’d love to hear your thoughts, so send them all my way.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What you need to do to get a job in property
  • How to differentiate yourself as an ‘A Player’ in the recruitment process
  • Why you should reverse engineer the application process to ensure success
  • What to say to an employer when you’re applying for an internship or work experience to ensure you get a yes
Direct download: 36_-_H2_Get_a_Job_in_Property.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 2:02pm GMT

In episode 35 of the Graduate Job Podcast we cover a topic which can strike fear into many people applying for graduate jobs, namely psychometric testing. We are joined by Ben Williams, managing director at Sten 10, as he guides us through everything you need to know about numerical tests, verbal reasoning tests, situational judgement tests, personality tests…..you name a test, Ben has probably designed it. We cover what each of these tests are, what they look like in practice, and what graduate employers are actually looking for from them. We delve into tips so you can perform at your best, why you definitely should not try and cheat, through to the importance of accuracy and whether you should guess if you don’t know the answer. No matter where you are in the application process, this is an episode which you aren’t going to want to miss. Make sure you listen to the end, as I’ve negotiated a special discount for you with CareerGym.com which has all of the practice tests you need to ace any psychometric test. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/test. Before we start don’t forget, I love to hear your feedback so do get in touch either by email or twitter, on twitter I’m @GradjobPodcast, and email is hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. What you love, people or companies you’d like to see on the show, I’d love to hear your thoughts, so send them all my way. But now without further ado, let’s dive straight in to episode 35.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What psychometric tests such as numerical reasoning, verbal reasoning, situational judgment, abstract reasoning and personality tests actually involve
  • Why companies use these tests and what they are looking for
  • How many questions you can expect in a test, and how long you have to answer them
  • Top tips for improving your test scores
  • Whether it is better to guess at an answer or go for accuracy
  • Why you don’t want to cheat!
  • Why you should always seek feedback on your performance
Direct download: 35_-_Testing_with_Ben_Williams.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:58pm GMT

For episode 34 of the Graduate Job Podcast we have for the first time a BAFTA award winner on the show, the absolutely fascinating Geoff Thompson. We go deep this week, as Geoff and I delve into the topic of fear, and how it might be holding you back in your search for a job. What fears are holding you back from getting that graduate job? What stories are you telling yourself in your job search which are stopping you from applying to the job of your dreams? It’s a captivating episode, and it’s one you’re going to want to listen to more than once. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/fear. Before we start don’t forget, I love to hear your feedback so do get in touch either by email or twitter, on twitter I’m @GradjobPodcast, and email is hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. What you love, people or companies you’d like to see on the show, I’d love to hear your thoughts, so send them all my way. But now without further ado, let’s push straight on with episode 34.

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • The fears that might be holding you back as you search for a job
  • Why you should be writing down a list of all your fears
  • Why confronting your fears is protein powder for the soul
  • How you can confront your limiting beliefs which are hindering your job search
Direct download: 34_-_Fear_and_Your_Job_Search_-_GJP.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 11:37pm GMT

In episode 33 of the Graduate Job Podcast I speak with author Inge Woudstra, as we explore issues of gender and recruitment. We cover a wide range of topics, from the role that gender plays in how and why people apply for graduate jobs, whether women in particular should change their approach to succeed in the recruitment process, through to the most effective way to ask for a pay rise. Male or female, this is an episode, you’re not going to want to miss. As always, all links to everything we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/gender. Before we start don’t forget, I love to hear your feedback so do get in touch either by email or twitter, on twitter I’m @GradjobPodcast, and email is hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. What you love, people or companies you’d like to see on the show, I’d love to hear your thoughts, so send them all my way. But now without further ado, let’s jump feet first into episode 33.

Direct download: GJP33_-_Be_Gender_Smart_in_Your_Job_Search_with_Inge_Woudstra.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:28am GMT

Welcome to the 32nd episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. We focus down again for episode 32, which is the second of our two part special on graduate jobs in social work, as I speak to Ivan Wise, Recruitment Director at Think Ahead. We delve into Think Ahead and its ground breaking 26 month graduate social work programme, examining what exactly it is, how you apply, and how you can stand out. We discuss the application process in detail and also cover why you should consider Think Ahead as your fast-track into a career in mental health social work. If you’ve ever thought about a career in social work then this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, links to all we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Thinkahead. This episode came about after a request from a listener, so if you have any particular people or industries you would like me to speak to on future shows, drop me a mail at hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. I read everything and I can’t wait to hear from you. But, let’s not dilly dally, and hop straight across to episode 32.

 

 

MORE SPECIFICALLY IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:

  • What Think Ahead is and why you should apply
  • The importance of their 7 attributes in the application process
  • Why you need dust down your webcam and record a short video
  • Top tips to make your online application stand out from the crowd
  • Everything you need to know about the Think Ahead assessment centre
  • Why speaking to a current mental health social worker should be on your to-do list!
Direct download: How_to_Get_a_Job_with_Think_Ahead_-_GJP_32.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:32am GMT

Welcome to the 31st episode of the Graduate Job Podcast. We focus down again for episode 31, which is the first of a two part special on graduate jobs in social work, as I speak to Katie Purser, Recruitment Director at Frontline. We delve into Frontline and its ground breaking 2 year graduate social work programme, examining what exactly it is, how you apply, and how you can stand out. We discuss the application process in detail and also cover why you should think about Frontline as your fast-track into a career in social work. If you’ve ever thought about working with children and families, then this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always, links to all we discuss and a full transcript are available in the show notes at www.graduatejobpodcast.com/Frontline. Before we start though, these special episodes came about from an email I received from a listener called Marnie, who emailed saying that she would love to get into social work and asked if I could interview some of the leading graduate schemes. If you have some particular people or industries you would like me to speak to on future shows, drop me a mail at hello@graduatejobpodcast.com. I read everything and I look forward to hearing from you. But, let’s not waste anymore time, and crack straight on with episode 31.

Direct download: How_to_get_a_job_in_social_work_with_Frontline_-_GJP_31.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:32am GMT