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School leavers & recent graduates

With the academic year coming to an end, we've been receiving a lot of questions about how to get that first job. A common hurdle is the experience gap, but don't worry, whether you've had a part-time job or not while studying, you've got more 'experience' than you realise.

"I was wondering if you could give me some advice on what to do. I have just finished my A-levels and I'm awaiting my results in August. I want to get a full-time job starting asap. I'm really stuck with what to do and what path to go down. I have been looking at numerous websites with job offers, but they all seem to want people with experience which unfortunately I do not have."

You haven't stated what kind of job you want to go into, so the first thing you should think about is what exactly you want to be doing. Have a think about the things you enjoy - whether it's a hobby in your personal life or a particular subject you enjoyed studying. You can then start to form a career path based on things you know you'll enjoy and are good at.

Of course you will have to start at the lowest level, and whilst these jobs often ask for experience, if you can demonstrate the key skills they're asking for based on examples of things you've done - again personal or during your studies - you're in with a shot. For example, did you have to do a presentation or any coursework for your A-levels? This would demonstrate initiative, resourcefulness, organisation and good communication skills. Download our qualifications based CV template, and also take a look at our sample cover letters and make sure you tailor both every time you apply for a job. You may not have your results yet, but you can include your predicted grades as a starting point.

"I am a recent graduate. I studied Hospitality Business Management but I'm finding it difficult to get a job. My experience is more in food and beverage, but I want to branch out to do something like receptionist in a hotel, or events and banqueting. I am not sure what is happening because when I send my CV I don't hear anything back. Please can you help?"

First of all, you need to focus your CV towards the skills you have already gained rather than stressing the experience you have. Many of your skills will be transferable, it's just a case of stating them the right way. You should then use examples from the experience you've gained to demonstrate each skill. Use the job description that you're applying for to emphasise that you have what they're looking for, quoting the job spec where necessary.

Like the jobseeker above, you will also need to write a good tailored cover letter to get your foot in the door. Our advice on cover letters will help you do this and gives examples too. You could also register with recruitment agencies that specialise in this type of work, they'll be able to advise you on the best place to start and will also be able to help you get some temporary work to gain that much needed experience. Don't sell yourself short - as a recent graduate you're a valuable commodity and it's common for people to move into a completely different field than the one they studied. Since your area of study is close to the area you want to work in, you're in a great position. Take a look at totaljobs.com Graduate zone for some inspiration and jobs available now.


Useful links:
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Graduate recruitment advice

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Totaljobs.com > Career advice > Career doctor > School leavers and recent graduates