The Resolute Groups guide on helping graduates after University

Are you a fresh graduate?

Are you unclear on what to do after graduation?

Do you have no idea what job exactly you want to do?

Would you like someone to guide you along your career path?

If the answer if yes to any of those, then carry on reading. Many graduates (myself included) can relate, and I know how daunting it is. However, there are various options you can take in order to help with your future and career.

1. Take a gap year and travel

Gap years offer a brilliant opportunity, to not only to see the world but also to experience diverse cultures, ways of working and understanding. Typically, employers really value this experience and the understanding of diversity that you can bring to the workplace. Taking time out to go travelling demonstrates maturity, good organisation and planning skills and self-sufficiency.

Whilst travelling, working abroad is also a fantastic way to boost your CV and develop a range of skills. Whether it is volunteering, teaching English or just earning cash whilst travelling. Taking a year out will increase your confidence and independence by having to converse and interact with the people you meet can help you to build relationships and become more self-assured. Arranging travel, finding accommodation, and surviving on your own money are great ways to show your independence.

Lastly it gives you time to decide what exactly you want to do, a gap year can give you the breathing space to consider your options whether it be further study or working. A break from study often helps to provide clarity and it can even open up new paths for future careers.

2. Internship

After recently graduating you’re now thinking about how you will launch your career as a graduate. Perhaps you missed out on getting any internships whilst you were at university and feel an internship would help you to discover your career path. Many graduates think it is too late to get an internship once you have finished university, and that is false.

Many people do an internship to get into the industry they want to work in, particularly in fields that are very competitive. For some industries, completing an internship is almost an expectation and is a common way for professionals to start their careers or a good way to test out a new job before committing to that career path.

The opportunity to learn from professionals working in the industry is one of the most vital benefits for interns. This gives you opportunity to get an insight and ask any questions you want to regarding your career before starting full-time roles.

3. Volunteering

Students and graduates are typically encouraged to take part in volunteering, as it is recognised that it can help them develop the skills and experience employers are looking for, whilst also making a positive difference in the local community. Even though they may be unpaid, volunteering helps you develop much needed skills and build your CV.

Furthermore, using your time to volunteer is also a great way to gather information and find out a little bit more about what exactly you’re looking for in regard to your career. Perhaps you’ve always worked for a large company and are curious about what life is like with a smaller non-profit. or maybe what it’s like to work in a start-up environment.

Beyond company size, volunteering is also an effective way to discover about how you function professionally. Do you like working independently, or as part of a team? Does working with a certain type of organisation make you feel especially inspired and fulfilled? Volunteering presents a non-threatening opportunity for you to figure all of that stuff out. This is undoubtedly very valuable when determining your next career choice.

4. Pursue postgraduate study

An alternative is to return to university to study at postgraduate level if you have a passion for academia and want to expand your knowledge. By furthering your education, you can obtain an even more advanced skill set and uncover more career opportunities than you would have previously.

People will opt to do a postgraduate course for different reasons, but it is important to understand why you are doing it. A Masters takes time and money so make sure you’re entering into it for the right reasons. Some careers require more formal qualifications, however for others it’s not a requirement. If you have a real desire to study a specific area of your undergraduate course in more depth, then postgraduate study is ideal.

Also, it will strengthen your CV and help you stand out amongst those who haven’t obtained a postgraduate qualification. You’ll be acquiring knowledge at a higher level than what you studied during your bachelor’s degree, and the course should help you develop the necessary skills for your field of work and more likely to secure a good graduate job.

5. Get a graduate job

The majority of graduates look for a job. In this instance, many graduates find it a challenge to move from student to employee. Joining a graduate scheme helps to bridge this gap because it’s like an extension of your education. Graduate schemes typically last between one to three years and provide candidates with exposure to different business areas.

Graduate schemes are highly structured around the work you do and the feedback and support you receive. The employer is investing directly in your professional and personal development. A graduate scheme is the chance to work for a large national or multi-national company and gain valuable training and experience. This will look excellent on a CV and give you a boost at the start of your career.

Due to the educational nature of this position, you will be able to alternate between many positions in the company and learn about different aspects of the industry. At the end of a graduate scheme, the company may offer you a permanent position. Whether you remain with the organisation at the programme’s end or not, you will have gained valuable experience and be thoroughly and better prepared for the future.