Frequently Asked Questions

Q:
I am a graduate and I need to find a suitable job, where do I start?
A:
You need to have a clear idea of the direction you want your career to take, and then settle on a starting point. There is nothing wrong with starting at the bottom as long as you have the patience and stamina to keep your goal in sight. Once you have chosen a career path, research companies that excel in that field. Try to speak to some-one at the top of the ladder you want to climb and find out how they got there. One of the best things about recruitment agencies is that they work on commission, send your CV to as many relevant agencies as you can and make sure you give them a definite description of the job you want, tell them that you only want placement within that field. It is also a good idea to send your CV to companies directly, even if they are not advertising a position at the time, request in the covering letter that they keep your CV on file should a position become available.

Q:
I am a mature student; will this work against me when applying for jobs?
A:
No. a lot of employers are looking for someone with life experience and maturity, and you have the qualifications as well! There is no reason why your age would be a hindrance, as long as your attitude is right.

Q:
I want to work abroad, what should I do first?
A:
There are a lot of things to consider when discussing working abroad, will this be an indefinite move or just a year? Will you want to work for profit or work to live? Hundreds of people every year flee the UK for places like Australia, Africa and New Zealand. Some with the intention of travelling and taking small part time jobs to pay their way, others with the idea of making a career. Once you have chosen your path, there are lots of websites you can visit that will not only help you plan the trip, but put you in contact with people that have already done it.
• www.realgap.co.uk/paid-work-abroad
• www.gapwork.com/
• www.payaway.co.uk/workabroad.shtml
• www.careers4graduates.org/work_abroad/wrkabrd.phtml

Q:
I have a physical disability, should I volunteer this information to begin with, or wait until I have secured an interview?
A:
Having a disability is not a negative as long as you are qualified, capable and suitable for the position. If you are concerned that your disability may be seen as a problem, it wouldn’t hurt to hold off until you have an interview date booked. If they appear to have issues with it explain to them that you do not let it hold you back and you always give 100% to any job. If they still have a problem with it, there are organisations you can speak to for help. You should not feel that you are not good enough for a position because of a physical disability. You can contact ACAS on the link below for more in depth advise and answers.
• www.acas.org.uk  

Q:
I have applied for a job that requires me to take an aptitude test, what is it and how do I prepare?
A:
Aptitude tests are used by employers to measure your intellectual capabilities for thinking and reasoning, particularly your logical and analytical reasoning abilities. There is very little you can do to prepare. Although there are several websites available that provide you with ‘mock’ tests.

Q:
I need to produce a CV, what information should I include?
A:
Please have a look at our CV Help section at the top of the page, you should find everything you need.

Q:
I get very nervous in interviews, are there any tips you can give me to help keep me calm?
A:
One of the healthiest ways of staying calm in a stressful situation is taking slow, deep breaths from the diaphragm and counting down from ten. However, if you are in an interview you may look slightly odd deep breathing, so, there is an herbal solution called ‘Rescue Remedy,’ it is totally safe and could help you to relax. It is available in most health food stores at a very reasonable price. Alternatively, have a look at our interview help section, perhaps some good advice is all you need to calm your nerves.

Q:
I would like to continue studying after I graduate, what options do I have?
A:
There are a lot of options available to you, depending on the direction you have in mind. Have a look at our Further Studies section for more information.

Q:
My exam results were low due to sickness, should I explain this in my CV or covering letter to a prospective employer?
A:
It is very unfortunate that the grades you have do not reflect the hard work you put in. It is best to make it clear that the grades were not a sign of laziness, but an unlucky situation that arose though no fault of your own. Your future employer should be able to understand.

Q:
I have just graduated and have a student loan, when do I have to start making payments?
A:
Student loan repayments can vary depending on when you started, when you finished and you employment and salary status; I would advise checking out the links below for clear concise answers.

• www.ucas.com/
• www.slc.co.uk/
• www.direct.gov.uk/
• www.studentsupportdirect.co.uk/