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Getting into a graduate recruitment scheme is as easy as ABC .
A is for application. The starting point: this is where your path to graduate recruitment begins. Before you start get a photocopy of the application form and use that to test your answers and check that you've got enough room for what you want to say. Be a perfectionist and make sure you get every detail right!
B is for being prepared. When you've sent your CV make sure you're contractible on the phone number or email address that you've listed. Make sure you're ready for some of the questions you may get. And be prepared for a telephone interview. Also keep track of all the applications you've made and when you've got interviews.
C is for CV. Obvious as it may be, the CV is one of the most important tools in your career armoury. Make sure it stands out from the rest and seek advice when it comes to promoting your skills and experiences.
D is for determination. You'll probably have a few rejections along the way, but don't let them put you off. Be determined, be focused and don't let the whole process get you down.
E is for enthusiasm. You may not feel that you've got all the skills required, you may not feel you were the model student and make the best employee, but find something to be enthusiastic about. Show enthusiasm about your course, your chosen career, your hobbies and everything you're involved with.
F is for first impression. Everyone goes on about making a good first impression, but they do that for a reason. It's the first few seconds that you meet a potential employer that really sets the scene for your employment. Make sure you look good, think about your posture and wear a smile - it all counts at the end of the day.
G is for graduate sites. Use the graduate websites around the internet to learn more about becoming a graduate employee and use these sites ultimately to find a graduate job. We'd first of all recommend Hobson's Graduate Recruitment Centre as your first port of call.
H is for help. Don't be afraid of asking for help. Talk to your friends and family, ask them to review your job applications and get them to ask you interview questions. If you can, involve your family in helping you find a job. Use all the resources available to you; this includes the library, the careers advice service and the internet.
I is for interview. If you've done your preparation then you shouldn't be nervous. Virtually everyone has had an interview and they're nothing to be afraid of. Keep your calm and remember it's just another interview; you'll probably have more opportunities to find the perfect job.
J is for journey. Get to your interview early, plan your route, know exactly how to get there and keep calm.
K is for knowledge. Don't think you can go into that interview room without knowing about the company. Get on the internet and review their website. Also look at websites that discuss the company as this will often give you questions for the end of the interview or answers that show you in a better light. Nothing offends employers more than being confronted by an applicant who obviously knows nothing about the company or the job on offer. Good applicants not only know all this, they are wise enough to demonstrate this in interview. So don't ask, "How many countries do you operate in?" say, "I know you operate throughout Europe and the Middle East and I was wondering what further expansion plans you have in place."
L is for listening. Make sure you hear the questions clearly. Don't assume you know what you're going to be asked and find out if there's a tone to the interviewers questions as that can often give an indication as to the type of answer they're looking for.
M is for motivation. Are you up for it? Do you really want the job, or is it just a means to an end? Whatever your true motivation, you've got to go for it. Let yourself be organised and make sure you're determined to get the job.
N is for nerves. Being nervous won't help. An obvious statement I know, but making yourself know the company and know yourself will help rid yourself of those nerves.
O is for online. There are so many resources online that it would make sense to use all of them. Look at sites that offer advice as to how to create a winning CV, also try and find as many job boards and recruitment agencies as you can.
P is for psychometric testing. Don't be afraid of psychometric testing, it's a common feature for graduate recruitment. Just focus on the questions, and do your best.
Q is for questions. You're basically always going to be asked if you've got any questions for them. To have a better chance of succeeding have a couple of well thought out questions ready.
R is for rejection letters. Rejection is just a part of the process; everyone that has succeeded in life has been rejected one way or another. But don't take this as a negative, you may be right for the job, but other people are more suitable. If possible, ask the employer why you didn't succeed and use that feedback in your next interview.
S is for salary. The salary is just one part of the overall package. Look at all the other elements such as pension, health insurance, gym membership, company car and bonuses, etc. If you're comparing a few offers make sure you do a fair comparison taking not only the financials but also consider the hours of work, the amount of travelling and career progression.
T is for Training. Make sure you'll get all the training you think you need. Ask your employer about the courses they'll take you on and if you'll get any more qualifications. If you're interested in taking courses for yourself then review the Agency Central Courses Directory.
U is for understanding. Don't be afraid to ask questions when you're applying for jobs. Make sure you're fully aware of what is expected of you and remember the graduate recruitment officers are there to help you do your best.
V is for VacancyCentral.co.uk. Add your CV to Vacancy Central and allow potential employers to review your details and approach you.
W is for work experience. Even if you're a graduate you may well have work experience gained from holiday employment or in from a gap year. Employers find work experience a great benefit. So if you have worked in a related industry of role then make the most of it on your CV. X is for
"X"-Rated. Don't give away more information than you need to. When you're asked about your hobbies make sure they're relevant to the job you're applying for.
Y is for you! Don't be afraid to talk about yourself. Know your strengths and weaknesses and communicate. The recruiters are hiring you so make sure they've got all the information they need.
Z is for "pushing up the Z's". Don't stay up late the night before an interview trying ever possible combination of spirits. Get an early night and relax.
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