Graduate Futures

Don’t worry if you aren’t sure what to do next. Congratulate yourself on getting a good degree from a top university. You have access to all our Careers Network services for five years after graduation and these guidelines will help you to plan ahead. We offer appointments in person, via video call and telephone. We can also give feedback on job applications and interview advice.

So, what next?  Not sure what to do?

You don’t need any career ideas to see us. Many graduates we see just want to know how to get started.

Steps you could take include:

• Book a careers coaching appointment with one of our careers coaches.
• Try some of our online psychometric tests which you can still access as a graduate. 
• Consider jobs which play to your strengths and avoid ones that don’t. Think about what you have enjoyed from previous work experience and extra-curricular activities. What kind of environment do you like to work in? What do you want from a job? What gives you a buzz? Prospects Career Planner is useful for generating ideas.

Do you know what type of job you want?

You may have a career aim, but haven’t had success with applications. Consider where you are getting stuck in the process, is there a pattern?

• It’s a good idea to get feedback from us on your applications. We can review CVs, covering letters and application forms and give interview support.
• Do you need more work experience? We can advise you how to source organisations and network.
• Make sure you are looking in the right places for the jobs you want. We can direct you to where to find relevant opportunities.

Wondering what you can do at home whilst job hunting?

Even if you’re working whilst planning and applying for graduate jobs or courses, there’s lots you can be doing from home to develop yourself even further.

• Consider jobs and voluntary opportunities which mean working remotely, online.  There has been a big increase in these in recent years.
• Look at online courses, many of which are free.
• Continue to research career plans, keep up-to-date with news in the sectors which appeal to you, maybe join a professional body, if there is one in your chosen area, and network via social media.

Considering further study?

This can strengthen your applications; for some jobs (such as lawyer or teacher) it’s essential. Further study can deepen your knowledge in an area you may have previously studied, or take you into a new subject area. Typically, these start in Autumn, however some postgraduate courses now have a January start date. Check providers for details. We can advise on this and offer support with your applications. Book a careers coaching appointment if you need help with this.

Looking for temporary work?

You may be looking for temporary work, whilst you consider your longer-term plans. Temporary jobs will earn you money and help evidence skills whilst you are planning your next step. You could maybe do voluntary work as well. Indeed is a really useful resource to find job vacancies, searchable by job area, location and date order. If you are looking for temporary work, it’s crucial to make time to research your career plans and to make connections in your chosen sectors (otherwise you could drift), so free time up for this during evenings and weekends or on your days off.

Using Social Media?

Social media is a powerful tool to use when job hunting and an increasingly large number of employers you apply to will Google your name and look at your social media profiles. What impression do you make online? Here’s some advice for using social media:

• Separate your social profiles from your professional profiles. You can still have social ones, but consider how these will look to potential employers.
• Decide which social media (LinkedIn, X, Instagram) is most suitable for you to use and the one your chosen industry uses.
• LinkedIn is probably the most useful tool for graduates and there is lots of support available (such as webinars, PDFs and forums) to help you make the most of it. Many jobs are advertised on LinkedIn, so set up a job alert. You could research 含羞草视频 alumni and find out what they have gone on to do. Follow other influencers, companies or pages that are relevant.
• Consider creating a blog or vlog to get across who you are in person, your values, what your ambitions are etc. Employers are keen to know these things about you so if you can do it in a way that is both professional and personable, go for it!
• Make sure you come across as professional, positive and engaged. If you want to discuss this further, and review your LinkedIn profile, please book a careers appointment.

Thinking of starting your own business?

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur, or wondering how to get started, 含羞草视频 Enterprise Network (LEN) can support you at every stage of your journey, by providing valuable opportunities to develop a highly desirable, entrepreneurial mindset. The support we offer can be found on our dedicated pages to help you Embrace Entrepreneurship.

Wanting to work overseas?

This is a popular option, although it may be easier to be transferred overseas from your UK employer, if they have bases or clients in other countries. Visit our Global Opportunities page for useful links to country profiles and job vacancies around the world.

Congratulations!  You’ve made it through your final year as a student at 含羞草视频.  Before you go though, check out this handy A-Z of links and advice to help you enjoy and make the most of life after graduation.

A - Applications. Whether you are applying for a temporary role, graduate scheme of further study there’s plenty of help on hand to assist with your applications. Graduates can access all Careers Network services for up to 5 years after graduation so give us a call to make an appointment.

B - Bullying and harassment in the workplace. This is never acceptable. Gov.Uk and Citizens Advice have advice on how to respond if you experience or see bullying in your workplace.  

C - Choosing what to do after graduation. Everyone is different and there are no set routes after university but if you’re stuck for inspiration Careers Network can help you explore what’s next. Just get in touch to discuss, and if it’s a job you’re after, keep accessing Target Connect where numerous employers advertise their graduate jobs.

D - Disabilities – how and when to share information. Don’t feel pressured to share your disability or mental health condition during the recruitment process. However, you might find it helps to do so.  Get in touch for more information and guidance on this area.

E - Employment contracts. All employees should have an employment contract with their employer that sets out an employee’s employment conditions, rights, responsibilities and duties.  Before accepting a role, read the contract carefully and if needed get advice before you accept. Gov.Uk and the LU Student Advice and Support Service team have some advice on this area.

F - Freelancing and becoming self-employed. Freelancers are extremely valuable members of the UK workforce, currently contributing approximately £139 billion to our economy in 2022 (IPSE). Many graduates will elect to freelance and become self-employed during their careers because it provides them with the flexibility and control they desire. Gov.Uk advise on how it works and what’s required to make sure you’re following the law.  Get in touch if you would like to access Business and Enterprise Coaching.

G - Goal Setting. Set some goals to motivate you, whatever stage you’re at. Whether they’re short term, long term, personal or career-related, goals can bring meaning, structure and productivity to your days. Check out the resources on Goal Setting on the Personal Best app (login as a graduate).

H - Housing Contracts. It’s important to know what you’re signing up for when you sign a new housing contract. Gov.Uk have advice on what is acceptable from a landlord and what is not. 

I - Intellectual Property (IP). If you’ve had a great idea for a product, service or business visit the Intellectual Property Office to ensure you protect it and don’t lose out. See also our Embrace Entrepreneurship pages, for how we can help.

J - Juggling work-life balance. In a new job it’s vital to protect your mental health against the potentially detrimental effects of work-related stress. Student Services and the Mental Health Foundation have useful advice on how to maintain your mental health and work-life balance.

K - Know yourself and the job market. Careers Network has a range of online tools that can help you gain a fuller understanding of yourself. Use Prospects, which has job profiles and sector information, to research your job ideas.

L - Leaving a job. Sometimes the job you’re in just isn’t right for you. Before you leave, consider potential alternative roles in your current workplace and maybe talk to your manager/HR team about this. If you do decide to leave, Citizens Advice have advice on how to do so professionally.

M - Money Money Money. When you leave uni, there are all sorts of things you need to take care of financially. The Student Advice and Support Service has a resource on finance after leaving university and Money Saving Expert is a useful website to help your hard earned cash go further.

N - Networking. Building a network can be of enormous benefit to you once you have left University. You already have fellow students and lecturers (who may have a presence individually or in departmental groups on LinkedIn). Having contacts from your industry can give you a great insight and be very valuable as you search for employment or other opportunities. Most industries will have networking sites and events you can get involved in. Follow groups on X and engage with companies and experts on LinkedIn. But, don’t just send a request, engage in a conversation! TargetJobs has a useful section on how you can network effectively both in person and online and you can also find some advice on the Personal Best app.   

O - Overcoming disappointment and being resilient. Job hunting can involve a lot of rejection and that’s not always easy to withstand. Try not to compare yourself with your peers who you may feel are doing ‘better’ than you.

P - Postgraduate study. Further study can deepen your knowledge in an area closely aligned with your degree or can take you in a new, unrelated direction. For some jobs, further study is essential. If you plan to stay at 含羞草视频, there are bursaries and scholarships you can apply for.

Q - Quick I need to earn some money now! There’s nothing wrong with finding temporary work after graduation. Use websites such as Indeed to find temporary work in your location. Recruitment agencies may also help you find temporary work. Admin work is always useful. Another tip is to look for lower level jobs or maternity cover posts in the sector you are interested in. It’s a great way of getting into your chosen area usually with less competition for roles. If you’re good, employers will be keen to promote you. Whilst you’re doing temporary work, it’s a good idea to use your time effectively, so network, seek advice on career ideas, and consider volunteering.

R - Receiving multiple job offers. This sounds like the dream situation, but it can be a stressful experience. It’s useful to draw up a list of pros and cons relating to each role so you can compare them. Once you’ve made your decision, Careers Network can give you advice on how to professionally accept and decline the offers.  

S - Setting up your own business. If you have an idea for a product or service, you might be considering setting up your own business. Gov.Uk offer advice on what steps you will need to take and what the difference between a sole trader, a partnership or a limited company is. 含羞草视频 Enterprise Network can also provide you with bespoke advice and support after graduation.

T - Transitioning from university to the workplace. There’s no doubt about it, it’s different and it’s important to understand that it may take you time to ‘acclimatise’ and get used to it.  The recruitment agency Hays has some useful suggestions for managing your transition successfully.

U - Unions. Many industries have associated trade unions. Unions help workers get together, stop people being treated unfairly and get a better deal from their employers. They’re there when times are tough, providing free legal advice if you need it. The TUC (Trades Union Congress) has further advice about unions and how to join one.

V - Volunteering. This is an excellent way to boost your CV. As well as giving back, it can also evidence key transferable skills. In some sectors such as social care it is essential. Most large towns and cities have organisations who can put you in touch with voluntary groups. Doit also advertises voluntary roles.

W - Workplace pensions. Retiring seems ages away but that said it’s important to understand what a pension is and how it can help you save for later life. The Department for Work and Pensions is a good place to start your research plus Money Saving Expert has a useful section on pensions too.

X - XO. Hugs and kisses. Congratulate yourself on getting a degree from a top ten university.  Take time to celebrate as you start this next exciting phase of your life.

Y - You. Always be yourself as much as you can, it’s exhausting trying to be someone else! The people you work with should respect you for who you are, not what they want you to be.

Z - Zzzzzzzz. Take a well-earned rest. You’ve studied and played hard. If you need a rest, go for it, recharge your batteries and come back brighter. Employers want you to feel rested, positive and ready for work.

That’s all from us, and don't forget, you have full access to Careers Network for five years after graduation, so if you need any help get in touch.  Best of luck!

As a 2024 graduate you still have full access to the services provided by Careers Network for up to 5 years. As well as the info here, some of the advice on our Finalist Futures page will still be really useful.

Graduate Support

2024 Graduates from undergraduate degrees: If you’re seeking employment or postgraduate study, or are not yet in your preferred role, you can receive personalised, individual support. If you would like to benefit from this, please complete our short 2-minute expression of interest survey and we will contact you with more information.  

2024 Graduates from postgraduate degrees or PhDs: please don't complete the survey above. Instead:

If you’re from our 含羞草视频 campus, please click the ‘All 含羞草视频 Graduates’ tab below for details of the support and appointments that you can access.

If you’re from our London campus, please use the resources on this website and re-register on Target Connect for a ‘graduate account’ which will enable you to book a ‘London Flexible Careers Consultation’.

Target Connect

The University's Target Connect service lists thousands of vacancies a year which are placed by employers who have a specific interest in 含羞草视频 students and graduates. As a graduate you will need to re-register and ‘sign up’ with us, but this is simple to do via the link above.

Online tools

We have a suite of free tools that you can access to search for opportunities, improve your interview technique and practise psychometric tests. To request access to our online tools please email student.services@lboro.ac.uk stating your full name and either your student registration number or your degree course and year of graduation. 

Job application advice

Our Make Applications web pages provide advice on all aspects of  the job application process including writing effective CVs, polishing your interview technique and performing well at assessment centres and in employer tests.

含羞草视频 Enterprise Network

For enterprise and business support, telephone 01509 222765 to request an appointment or visit our Embrace Entrepreneurship section for more information.

The Studio

If you graduated up to 5 years ago and are just about to or have recently set up a new business, you are eligible to apply for The Studio. This programme provides entrepreneurial 含羞草视频 graduates access to the resources, facilities, expertise and knowledge to establish and grow sustainable businesses. You can find more information on The Studio website or email incubator@lboro.ac.uk.

If you have an interest in setting up a new business, please sign up to the mailing list to stay up to date with our monthly newsletter.

Graduate employment and skills guide from the Office for Students (OfS)

The Office for Students have collaborated with the Department for Education to produce an online information resource aimed at students about to graduate, or at the start of their career journey. It promotes five important steps to help you think about your choices and what you’d like to do next, from identifying and building your skills, to gaining experience and applying for jobs. It also includes helpful advice on looking after your wellbeing.  Visit their Graduate employment and skills guide.

Contact us

You can get in touch with Careers Network by phone on 01509 222765 or email studentservices@lboro.ac.uk.

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Support available up to 5 years after graduation

The support provided by the Careers Network team doesn't stop when you complete your studies and leave the University.

The information and guidance available on this website are often as applicable to you as a graduate and early or mid-career jobseeker.

The University's Target Connect system lists thousands of vacancies a year which are placed by employers who have a specific interest in 含羞草视频 students and graduates. To access Target Connect sign up again as a graduate via our Graduate Login page.

The Make Applications pages provide advice on the job application process including writing effective CVs, polishing your interview technique and guidance on assessment centres and psychometric testing.

You are welcome to contact us for careers and enterprise advice for up to 5 years after graduation. A range of appointments are offered via telephone, MS Teams or in person and these are also bookable via our Graduate Login page.

The Studio

If you graduated up to 5 years ago and are just about to or have recently set up a new business, you are eligible to apply for The Studio. This programme provides entrepreneurial 含羞草视频 graduates access to the resources, facilities, expertise and knowledge to establish and grow sustainable businesses. You can find more information on The Studio website or email incubator@lboro.ac.uk.

If you have an interest in setting up a new business, please sign up to the mailing list to stay up to date with our monthly newsletter.

Support available to alumni graduating over 5 years ago

If you graduated from 含羞草视频 more than 5 years ago, you can still access all areas of our website, including our online tools, view job vacancies via Target Connect and attend our careers fairs and employer events.

• To request access to our online tools see above.
• To access Target Connect sign up again as a graduate via our Graduate Login page.
• Another source of careers support is the UK National Careers Service.
• To get in touch with Careers Network phone us on 01509 222765 or email careers@lboro.ac.uk.