Finishing university is an exciting time as a graduate as you begin your journey into the working world. However, it’s no secret that finding your first graduate job can be challenging, to say the least. And with the average graduate taking around 6 months to land a job, many university leavers can begin to feel defeated in this highly competitive job market. But, worry not! We’re here to share some of the most common graduate job search mistakes so can avoid making them.
Although finding graduate jobs may take some time, the good news is that your chances are actually quite high. According to HESA statistics, 82% of graduates were in employment or unpaid work 15 months after graduating. So, although it may feel like you’re not getting anywhere, the key is to stick at it and stay motivated.
Of course, that’s not the only advice we have for you. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top mistakes made by graduates when applying for jobs. This way, you can spot the mistakes before you make them, boosting your chances of landing your dream graduate job in no time.
Avoid These 10 Graduate Job Search Mistakes
We’ve sat down and researched what graduates tend to get wrong during the job application process. Out of all of our findings, these were the top mistakes made by graduate job seekers.
1. Unprofessional communication
Communication is key in the job search, yet many graduates make critical errors that hinder their chances of success. The informal language you use on WhatsApp, Snapchat, Instagram, etc., has no place during the job application process. This goes for emails, interviews and any networking conversations you may have. Use proper etiquette and maintain professionalism. That means, no abbreviations/emojis, use a professional greeting and sign off, ask clarifying questions if you need to, and always reply as quickly as possible.
For more on this, see our blog on Top Tips for Applying for your First Job →
2. Not being proactive enough
You need to be proactive in your search efforts, so avoid taking a passive approach by only applying to job advertisements. Start by doing thorough research on the companies you’re interested in. Then, reach out to set up informational interviews with current employees to learn more about their experiences. This shows initiative and helps to expand your network.
Beyond that, take it upon yourself to connect with professional contacts for advice and to see if they know of current openings. Getting in early means you reduce the amount of competition for a potential role.
Read more in our blog When to Apply for Graduate Jobs →
3. Only using the Internet
Online job boards are excellent sources when you need graduate job search help, but they’re not the only place you should be looking. Many openings, especially at SMEs, are rarely advertised publicly. This is where you need to tap into your professional and personal networks again to seek out unlisted opportunities.
It’s a good idea to reach out to connections through email, LinkedIn or through informational interviews to inquire about positions that fit your background and interests. Sign up for job alert emails from companies as well. The wider the net you cast, you greater the chance you have of finding your dream graduate job.
Learn all about How to Find Graduate Jobs →
4. Failing to follow up
Following up is a crucial job search task that many graduates tend to forget. Always send follow-up emails after
- submitting a graduate job application
- interviewing with an employer
- networking at an event
- conducting an informational interview.
Yes, they’re an added step in the process but follow-ups continue the conversation and show the employer your interest in working with them. Of course, these need to be customised to each employer. For instance, you could refer to a specific conversation topic you had with them. Periodic check-ins also demonstrate persistence and attention to detail.
5. Appearing unprofessional
Employers are evaluating the type of employee you’d be from their first point of contact with you. Therefore, put care and thought into how you present yourself. This includes
- how you introduce yourself in your first correspondence
- how you dress for interviews and events
- your speech and body language during conversations
- your online presence across social media platforms and websites.
Not appearing polished or prepared for interactions gives the impression you won’t take the actual job seriously.
For more tips, check out Writing a Graduate CV: A Guide →
6. Not taking the job interview seriously
If you reach the interview stage of the job application process, you’re on the right track! Interview preparation takes time but is critical for success. You need to thoroughly research the specific role, company, products/services, and current events or issues in your field prior to interviews.
Review common questions for your industry and practice your responses out loud to polish your delivery. Again, treat all interactions and email exchanges as part of the evaluation process, not just the interview itself.
Failing to prepare for the interview is a hugely common mistake. It leads employers to think you won’t take the actual job seriously and aren’t truly invested in working for their organisation.
Learn How To Nail Your First Graduate Job Interview →
7. Neglecting personal branding
Many graduate job seekers fail to realise that their personal brand as a professional is being built throughout the job search. Therefore, be strategic in crafting an online presence across platforms like LinkedIn. It should reflect the image you want to convey to employers so consider things like
- a professional headshot and background image on your profiles
- tailored CVs and cover letters
- unique LinkedIn summaries for each application
While your materials should demonstrate your authentic self, they should also aim to match what each employer is specifically looking for.
Become a personal branding pro with our Personal Branding Tips for Students →
8. Underestimating transferable skills
Many graduate job seekers make the mistake of believing that lacking years of full-time work experience means they have no valuable skills. This couldn’t be further from the truth! You have been developing vital soft skills, or transferable skills since you were at school.
Think back to any past jobs, extracurriculars, volunteering, coursework, and life experiences you’ve had. What competencies, accomplishments, and skills did you gain that apply to the roles you want? For example, if you were a team captain on your local football team, you have developed skills in communication, people skills, and collaboration. Now all you have to do is align these transferable skills directly to keywords mentioned in the posted job descriptions.
Learn more about transferable skills in our blog 5 Real Life Skills You Learned At School →
9. Missing networking opportunities
We’ve mentioned networking quite a bit during this blog and there’s a good reason for that. In the working world, expanding your professional connections is pivotal. However, many graduates focus only on applying for jobs instead of networking.
The key to networking is to put yourself out there and keep track of everyone you meet. Again, send follow-up emails or LinkedIn messages to solidify your new professional relationship. The more quality connections you build, the more likely you are to hear about unposted openings that fit your background.
Want to learn more? Read our blogs on 4 Online Networking Tips for Graduates and Networking Tips for Students: Steps to Success.
10. Fearing rejection
And finally, our last tip on how not to apply for graduate jobs. Unfortunately, the search for graduate jobs inevitably involves rejection, which recent grads often fear. Nevertheless, some level of rejection is part of the process for all candidates at any level, even CEOs. The key is to shift your mindset and see rejection as a way to grow both personally and professionally.
Take any rejection and constructively self-reflect on what you can improve for the future. Then, refocus your energy on continuing your determined search instead of dwelling on the rejection.
The more you put yourself out there, the easier it gets to bounce back. Your confidence and persistence will pay off when you find your dream graduate job.
For further tips on this, read our page on Dealing with Graduate Job Rejection →
Key Takeaways: Graduate Job Search Mistakes to Avoid
So, there you have it. These common job search mistakes made by graduates have been the reason why many hopefuls have not made it to the next stage of the job application process. But, with this information under your belt, you can begin your graduate job search with a head start. Avoid these job search mistakes at all costs and you’ll soon find yourself in your first graduate job!
Looking for graduate jobs? Check out the Developing a Student jobs board for all the latest graduate jobs in your area. Our website is packed with useful support and resources for graduates, including:
- How to Find Opportunities at Careers Fairs
- Support for Postgraduates
- In-Demand Skills
- Thriving in Your First Graduate Job: Essential Tips for Entering the Workforce
- and much, much more.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter below for all the latest news and graduate opportunities from Developing a Student.
