You’ve survived uni: sleepless nights, group projects (where you did all the work), and a dissertation that almost broke you. Now what?
The job hunt can feel like a confusing tutorial with no instructions, but don’t panic. You don’t need your whole career mapped out yet, there are plenty of options, and we’re here to help.
What Even Is a ‘Graduate Job’?
It sounds obvious, but “graduate job” is a pretty broad term. Essentially, it’s any role that typically requires a degree, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be related to what you studied. So yes, your history degree can still land you a marketing job, and no, your English lit degree doesn’t mean you’re doomed to be a teacher (unless you want to be.)
There are two main types:
- Graduate schemes – These are structured programmes run by big companies, usually lasting 1-3 years. They’re competitive, often well-paid, and can involve rotations across different departments. Think fast-track careers with training wheels.
- Graduate jobs – These are standard entry-level roles open to grads. Less structured, but often more varied and available across more industries. If a grad scheme feels like committing to a full-blown three-course meal, a grad job is more of an à la carte approach – you get to pick what suits you.
Whatever route you take, your transferable skills matter. University has already armed you with problem-solving abilities (like figuring out how to live off pasta and toast for a week), communication skills (read: surviving seminar debates), and resilience (because group work). These are the things employers want; so even if you don’t have a year of “real” work experience, you’re more qualified than you think.
What Kind of Graduate Jobs Are Out There?
Spoiler alert: More than you think. The world isn’t just lawyers, doctors, and bankers (thankfully). Here are a few of the biggest sectors hiring graduates:
- Corporate & Finance – Think consulting, banking, HR, marketing, and sales. If you like PowerPoint, data, and coffee-fuelled deadlines, this could be your thing. Santander offers a range of graduate programs in various areas of finance, providing opportunities for graduates to gain experience and build their careers within a leading global bank.
- STEM & Tech – Software developers, engineers, data analysts, and cybersecurity pros are in high demand. If you know your way around Python, Excel, or AI, you’re golden. In fact, the tech sector, along with engineering and healthcare, are currently experiencing skills shortages 1. This means there are more opportunities for graduates with the right qualifications and skills. So, if you’ve got a passion for these areas, now’s a great time to explore them.
- Public Sector & Charities – The NHS, government roles, teaching, and non-profits all hire grads. If you want to make a difference rather than just make money, this sector is worth a look. This also includes graduate schemes within the public sector, such as the Civil Service Fast Stream, which offers diverse career paths within the UK government.
- Creative & Media – Social media, journalism, advertising, PR, design, and TV. If you have a killer portfolio or a TikTok side hustle, this could be your playground. Organisations like the BBC offer graduate schemes in areas such as journalism and production, providing structured pathways into the media industry.
- Start-ups & SMEs – Smaller companies often offer more hands-on experience and faster career growth. If the idea of working somewhere with bean bags, office dogs, and a “wear whatever” dress code appeals to you, this could be a good fit.
And then there’s self-employment & freelancing, which is a legit option if you’d rather be your own boss. If you’ve got a skill (writing, coding, design, social media) you can make a career out of it (or at least a side hustle).
How to Actually Find a Graduate Job
Alright, let’s get practical. You know what’s out there: now how do you get one?
- Job boards – Start with Unibeez, where you’ll find a range of student jobs tailored to students and recent grads. But don’t just scroll aimlessly – set up alerts for specific roles and companies to stay ahead of the competition.
- Networking (yes, really) – We know, networking sounds like something middle-aged business people do over bad coffee, but hear us out. Connecting with people in your industry, whether through alumni, career events, or even casual conversations, can open doors to opportunities you wouldn’t find in job listings. A quick message or a friendly chat can go a long way.
- University careers services – Even if you never set foot in their office before, your uni’s career service is actually useful. They can help with CVs, applications, and sometimes even connect you to employers.
- Your CV & Applications – Tailor everything. Generic CVs get ignored. Show how your experience (even if it’s just from uni or part-time work) matches what they’re looking for. And always write a short, punchy cover letter – no one wants to read an essay.
- Interviews & assessments – Some grad schemes have actual exams (we know, rude). Others might have video interviews or tasks. The trick? Prep. Research common questions, practise speaking out loud (yes, it’s weird, but it helps), and don’t be afraid to hype yourself up.
What If You Don’t Land a Job Straight Away?
First off, don’t panic. You’re not failing. This is just how job hunting works. Even the most employable people get ghosted (seriously, recruiters are the original ‘seen but no reply’ experts).
If things aren’t happening as fast as you’d like, here’s what you can do:
- Internships & temp jobs – Getting something on your CV is often more useful than waiting for the “perfect” job. Even short-term gigs can help.
- Upskilling – Free and cheap courses exist for everything from coding to digital marketing. Adding a new skill can make a difference.
- Further study – Not always necessary, but a postgrad course could open up more doors. Just make sure it’s actually useful for your career goals.
- Side projects & volunteering – If you want to work in media, start a blog. If you’re into coding, build a project. Employers love to see initiative.
The key thing? Stay proactive and don’t lose confidence. Job hunting can be a slog, but every interview, application, and message gets you closer.
Whether it’s through a grad scheme, a job at a small company, a side hustle that turns into a career, or even a completely unexpected path, there are options. And if you’re feeling stuck? Well, Unibeez is always a solid place to start.
So take a deep breath, keep applying, and trust that you’re heading in the right direction. You’ve already made it this far – what’s one more challenge?
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