Whether you’re searching for a part-time job related (or unrelated) to your degree, or you're approaching graduation and thinking about your first graduate job, QMU's Careers and Employability Service has compiled essential tips to guide you through the job-hunting process!
1. Tune in to recruitment events
Attending recruitment events is a fantastic way to connect with potential employers and discover job openings. These are chances to discover who is looking for students and graduates, what they’re looking for and how to make the best impression when you apply.
Why attend?
• Discover opportunities: Learn which companies are hiring and what they’re looking for in candidates.
• Network with employers: Make a great first impression by engaging directly with company representatives.
• Get insider information: Find out how to tailor your applications to meet employers’ expectations.
2. Set up job alerts
Maximise your online job search by setting up customised job alerts. Platforms like Student Central are fantastic tools for QMU students and graduates, offering a variety of opportunities, including internships, part-time jobs, volunteer positions, and graduate roles. Our Student Central platform allows you to set up preferences according to areas of interests, which means you receive a tailored version of our fortnightly jobs newsletter!
How to set up alerts on job sites:
• Choose your criteria: Filter by sector, job role, level, and location to receive relevant notifications.
• Stay updated: Regularly refresh your preferences to keep up with new opportunities.
• Get ahead: Act quickly when new jobs are posted. Give yourself the time to write a high-quality application and increase your chances of landing an interview.
3. Be proactive in your job search
Some opportunities are never advertised, so it’s crucial to be proactive in your search!
Proactive strategies:
• Use your network: Let friends, family, and acquaintances know you’re looking for a job.
• Approach employers directly: If you're looking for a job in retail or hospitality, visiting businesses where staff may be needed at short notice is always a good idea!
• Ask your current employer: other opportunities may be available within the organisation you work at! Read about how our Film and Media graduate David Blomquist went from bartender to content creator!
4. Be ready to impress
Maybe it's your transferable skills, your existing experience or the knowledge you’ve gained from your degree that will appeal most to an employer. Ensure you have a strong and polished CV, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile.
Key Tips:
• Tailor your application: Highlight relevant skills, experience, and knowledge that match a particular job description.
• Address the person specification: Showcase your most relevant skills and refer to specific examples that demonstrate how you meet the essential criteria.
• Optimise your LinkedIn profile: Make sure your profile is complete, with a professional photo, a strong headline, and a detailed summary. If you are in the creative industries, an Instagram or TikTok page might be a better way to showcase examples of your work!
5. Prepare thoroughly for interviews
Preparation is key to acing your interviews. Show employers you’re genuinely interested in the role and their organisation.
Interview Prep Checklist:
• Research the company and sector: Show that you have acquainted yourself with the sector and the company’s vision, values and their work!
• Know the job: Review the job description and think about how your skills align with the role.
• Practise the questions: Be ready to answer common interview questions and provide examples of your achievements.
6. Use your Careers Service
Make the most of your Careers and Employability Service. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from sourcing job opportunities to perfecting your applications.
How we can help:
• Personalised guidance: Book a 1-to-1 appointment or come to one of our drop-in sessions.
• Workshops and events: We run a programme of seminars and workshops each semester on topics including CV writing, preparing for interviews and how to find a job.
• Exclusive job listings: Access a wide range of job opportunities through Student Central, including jobs you won’t see advertised elsewhere.
• Resources: use our resources on Student Central, which include guidance on how to write a CV, prepare for interviews and use LinkedIn effectively.
7. Don’t be discouraged!
Securing a job can be challenging and rejection can be painful, but it is a normal part of the process. With the right approach and resources, it will happen!
Learn more about QMU's Services for Students.
