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Breaking into the job market can feel challenging, especially if you're a Gen Z jobseeker navigating an evolving workforce. As work environments shift and competition increases, understanding the latest job search tips and strategies is key to finding your ideal role.
If you're born between 1997 and 2012, you are already one of many who is reshaping UK workplaces. According to Glassdoor, Gen Z has already surpassed baby boomers as a workforce segment in 2024, with over 17 million full-time positions held. With this rapid growth comes new opportunities – and new challenges. Latest research from the Institute of Student Employers suggests that competition for graduate jobs is at an all-time high, with nearly 70 times as many applicants as there are jobs available.
This guide draws expert insights to help you succeed as a graduate or school leaver. From setting clear career goals to mastering your CV and networking effectively, these 15 tips are tailored to empower you as you start your career.
Here’s what’s in store for you in this guide:
Setting career goals to match your strengths and passions.
Simple strategies to stand out in competitive job markets.
Insider tips to optimise your CV and application tools like CVMaker.
CVMaker simplifies the task of CV writing, providing you with the best CV template for the job you are applying for.
1. Define your career goals
Many graduates feel pressure to land a job quickly, but rushing through this step isn't always the best move. Start with honest reflection:
Identify what you enjoy, what matters to you, and where you see yourself in five years.
Review courses or projects you found meaningful, and explore how they align with career options.
Use trusted job platforms, like Indeed or Glassdoor, to research roles and industry trends.
Consider your key values and strengths.
Check out our list of jobs that didn't exist 20 years ago for more career inspiration!
2. Start your job search early
Starting your job search while still studying can give you an advantage over other graduates. By doing so, you can better understand the job market and identify the best opportunities based on your skill set and background. The better you are prepared, the less stress you will experience when job searching. Nowadays, you are not limited by location but can explore digital nomad opportunities worldwide!
Key tips:
Dedicate time weekly to research and refine your applications while still studying.
Track your job applications in a spreadsheet for better organisation.
Check out remote work or hybrid job models for flexibility, especially popular among Gen Z workers.
Explore working with startups, where you can gain diverse skills and take on varied responsibilities.
Explore the biggest industries in the UK or highest paying jobs to help you choose your ideal career path.
3. Gain experience through short-term roles
If job offers feel out of reach, focus on part-time roles, internships, apprenticeships, or traineeships to build industry-relevant skills. These types of jobs provide you with hands-on experience and the opportunity to develop yourself. Don't be afraid to apply for jobs outside your area of expertise – you might be surprised at the opportunities you come across.
Prioritise financial stability and happiness while keeping an eye on long-term career goals. Doing a part-time job provides greater flexibility, time for self-development, and the opportunity to form connections with others.
Examples of opportunities:
Customer-facing roles in hospitality, such as barista, waitress/waiter, or receptionist, help you develop key interpersonal skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. You’ll also learn to handle different situations and interact with people from all walks of life.
Retail assistant and warehouse operative positions are great for building time management, organisation, and attention to detail – traits that matter in any workplace.
Traineeships and internships provide hands-on learning aligned to industry roles, often giving you the chance to work on small projects or contribute to real business outcomes.
Part-time jobs or seasonal jobs, such as holiday retail work or event staff, introduce you to fast-paced work and help you build resilience under pressure.
Pro tip
Employers increasingly value adaptability. Part-time roles outside your degree can showcase flexibility and resourcefulness.
4. Tailor every job application
Avoid the trap of sending out generic CVs. Customising your application for each role shows employers that you’ve done your homework, which sets you apart from other candidates.
Make a list of keywords appearing in the job description and incorporate them into your CV and cover letter to ensure it is ATS-friendly.
Personalise your cover letter and explain why are you excited about the role and company.
Include measurable achievements in your CV to demonstrate your successes during your studies or additional work experience. For example, "increased social media engagement by 35% within three months" or "contributed to training a team of five during a busy sales period." This shows not only what you did, but the positive results you brought.
Taking these steps shows you genuinely care about the opportunity and are willing to put in extra effort, which is something most employers appreciate. To learn more, refer to our related blog article on how to write a master CV.
5. Create a strong CV
Your CV is often the first impression employers have of you – make it count with clear structure and strong language.
Writing a CV for a first job can be daunting, but we've got some basic tips to help get you started.
Essentials for a graduate CV
Focus on your most recent experience and outline it in chronological or skills-based format. Prioritise your most relevant skills and group your achievements under clear headings like “Teamwork” or “Problem Solving.”
Customise your CV for each job you apply for. Tailor each section to line up with the job you are targeting to make your CV applicant tracking system friendly.
Use strong action verbs on a CV to quantify your impact where possible. When describing your experience, use power verbs such as "led," "organised," "achieved," "collaborated," "resolved," "created," "initiated," and "supported." Phrases like “developed a new process,” “managed a team project,” or “delivered a successful event” help demonstrate specific impact and initiative.
Mention your personal profile to summarise your background and state your career goals. Add extra sections to stand out, such as volunteer work, relevant coursework, certifications, or extracurricular leadership roles.
Proofread thoroughly. Accurate grammar and spelling are a must. Tools like CVMaker not only help with formatting but also flag mistakes, so your document always looks professional.
Example of a graduate CV
Remember, it takes only a few seconds for a recruiter to assess your application so be sure to keep it concise and to the point. A good CV could be a deciding factor in whether or not you will receive a job interview invite.
Already have a CV? Follow these tips on how to improve your CV as a undergraduate.
6. Network strategically
Opportunities often stem from professional connections, so it’s important to build your network with intention. Even if you’re just starting out, there are smart ways to grow relationships that can lead to future roles or valuable career advice.
Attend a variety of networking events, such as industry conferences, job fairs, online webinars, and professional organisation meetings.
Communicate with your professional and personal connections, both in person and on social media to let them know you're looking for a job - they can give you a fresh perspective and provide a valuable advice. Reach out to alumni on LinkedIn – most are willing to offer advice or share industry insights if you take the first step.
Reach out to your alumni network to explore potential job openings at companies they work for or own, as they are more likely to hire someone with a similar background than a stranger, making them a great asset to your application.
Volunteer at industry events or student chapters to meet professionals in an informal setting. Participating in projects, committees, or event planning can give you access to mentors and increase your visibility.
Looking for work after graduating as an international student? Explore more job opportunities for international students.
7. Use LinkedIn effectively
LinkedIn isn’t just a job board; it’s a platform to showcase your skills, grow your network, and learn about your industry. With the right approach, you can establish a strong professional presence and access valuable opportunities.
Must-do LinkedIn Tips:
Craft a compelling headline that quickly captures your career goals or the unique value you bring. For example, “Aspiring Digital Marketer | Skilled in Content Creation & Analytics.”
Optimise your profile with detailed descriptions of your work experience, education, and relevant skills. Don’t forget to add certifications, awards, and portfolio links – these can show proof of your abilities.
Use the “About” section to share your professional journey and what you’re passionate about. This helps employers see the person behind the resume.
Add a professional profile photo and a custom background image that matches your field or showcases your interests.
Ask former managers, colleagues, or professors for recommendations. Testimonials add credibility and boost your profile’s appeal.
Consistently share updates, articles, or industry news. Comment on posts and take part in discussions to show you’re engaged and thoughtful.
Use LinkedIn’s job search filters to look for companies that match your interests. Set job alerts so you never miss new roles.
Follow industry leaders, companies, and groups that align with your career goals. Join in conversations and build your visibility.
Explore the “Open to Work” feature to discreetly signal to recruiters that you’re available for new opportunities.
Attend LinkedIn virtual events and webinars to keep learning and meet people in your field.
If you’re reaching out to someone for the first time or thinking about cold emailing, always personalise your message. Share what specifically interests you about the company and attach a tailored CV that highlights your fit for their role. This shows attention to detail and genuine interest, which employers appreciate. Learn more about how to optimise your LinkenIn profile.
8. Find a mentor
Finding a mentor can be a life-changing experience. Some professionals with years of experience would be happy to train you and share knowledge. Seeking and maintaining a relationship with a more established person than you is an important strategic advantage and vital for career progression. Remember, a career choice is your hands - you don't necessarily need a confirmation from your parents or teacher to become what you want to be.
Seek and maintain relationship with a more established professional who can you assist in the career journey and recommend useful resources.
Make yourself more aware of employees who have been at the company for longer or have an interesting career path.
Try talking to colleagues outside your circle with more experience - they might be able to assist you with your career.
You can write a social media message or networking email to reach out to a potential mentor. Keep the tone professional and share why you consider them to be a good fit for a mentor.
Pro Tip
Remember, mentoring is a two-way street; be open to feedback and respectful of your mentor’s time. Share achievements or milestones so your mentor can see the impact of their guidance. With time and effort, a great mentor relationship can be a catalyst for lasting growth.
9. Send in an open application
A little-known secret to the workforce is that some jobs don't even exist on job boards. Consider applying with an open application to a company. Some companies may not realise what they are missing until they see it in front of them. Other times, companies have open positions within a company without having publicised them yet. You never know the reason, so why not be early and send in your CV and cover letter? Read more about how to send your CV via email for the best tips and tricks.
10. Apply to recent job openings
This may seem obvious, but it's a step often forgotten. As we mentioned, it's good to be early to an application. This means they might see your CV and decide you're the right candidate for the job. Filter job vacancies with the last posted within 24 hours and apply each day to a few of the interesting vacancies. This technique is applicable not only for your first job but for any job application later in life. The average duration of job postings is less than 40 days, with companies making an effort to fill their positions fast. Make sure you don't miss any opportunities by applying sooner rather than later!
11. Prepare for interviews
If you have little to no experience with interviews, now is the time to start preparing! By understanding the company's expectations you can confidently portray yourself as a strong and motivated candidate. Remember, practice is the key!
Practice common interview questions and scenarios to help you refine your responses and communicate your strengths and qualifications more effectively.
Look into the company's website to identify its mission and vision statement to demostrate your interest.
Ask your friends or colleagues to conduct a mock interview to get feedback and improve your performance.
Review your CV and cover letter before the meeting to make sure you can elaborate on each sentence or experience you've mentioned.
We recommend to comply with the dress code and avoid any casual clothing or sport clothes, as this can present you as unprofessional candidate.
Research the company and consider what are the good questions to ask in an interview to showcase your capabilities and enthusiasm for the role. To prepare for next steps in the application process, take a look at how you can negotiate salary.
12. Consider taking a gap year
Many people just straight into the workforce without exploring themselves or the world. Go backpacking on a different continent, get a travel-work visa for Australia, take a skydiving course in Indonesia or work part-time in Berlin for the dance scene.
There is so much to discover, so take advantage of your youth. You won't run out of time to enter the workforce! See our tips for more guidance below:
You have plenty of time to find your desired job and join the workforce.
Explore yourself and the world around you through travel, a travel-work visa, or a part-time job in another country.
A gap year can improve your personal growth and give you time for self-development.
Use your youth to discover new places, cultures, and activities you enjoy.
If you are worried about how this might look on your CV, we've got you covered. Learn how to explain unemployment gaps on your CV to effectively showcase your unique experiences.
13. Be patient
Patience is key when applying for jobs. The process can be tiring and waiting for a response can drain your energy. However, there are strategies to overcome these obstacles.
Stay organised and keep track of timings and times when you get overwhelmed.
Take breaks and recharge your mental energy.
Keep trying your best and do not let a lack of clarity discourage you from moving forward!
Remember, everyone faces several rejections before finding a great opportunity.
14. Track your job applications
To effectively organise and track your job applications, maintain a planner to record interview dates, locations, and deadlines, ensuring punctuality and thorough preparation. Additionally, utilise a spreadsheet to manage applications, noting company names, positions, locations, and hiring manager contact information. Here are some tips:
Use a spreadsheet to create columns for company name, position, location, hiring manager contact details, application date, hiring manager response, and interview date.
Regularly update the spreadsheet with new job applications and responses received to stay organised and informed.
Include a section for notes to jot down any important details or observations about each application or interview.
Prioritise follow-up tasks by scheduling reminders in your planner for sending thank-you notes or making follow-up calls after interviews.
Review your spreadsheet regularly to track the progress of your applications and identify areas for improvement in your job search strategy.
For more expert tips, refer to our blog article on how best to track your job applications.
15. Upskill yourself
There are crucial skills and knowledge beyond your degree you need to acquire to stay competitive.
Explore and obtain accredited certifications from Coursera, Udemy, FutureLearn, Open University, or university summer classes to showcase your skills further.
Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences.
Read industry reports and articles regularly to keep updated on the latest trends.
Continue learning both in and outside of work settings to stay competent and in line with the industry changes.
Acquire additional skills and knowledge through guidance from experienced professionals, reports, or presentations.
In today's competitive market, consider adding courses and certifications to your CV. This would make you shine brighter as a candidate and allow you to create a skills-based CV.
Key takeaways
Starting your career is exciting, but knowing what to expect is essential. You've worked hard to build the expertise and skills needed to launch your career. Now, it's time to get out there and explore potential opportunities. We're here to support you in your first steps and guide you on what to do after graduating. Remember, career growth doesn't come out of thin air, it requires action! Take the initiative in your hands and elevate your career!
State your career goals
Begin your search before graduation
Expand your network
Stay ahead of competition
Show initiative in your work and studies
Neglect personal development including soft skills
Focus solely on your current field
Apply for 50 jobs with the same CV
Overlook your connections
Take job rejections too personally
Next steps?
If you're looking to create a CV from scratch or iron out inconsistencies, consult our CV Writing Service. Use our intuitive CV builder and Cover Letter builder to help you finalise your application and secure your job interview. Lastly, check our collection of professional CV example guides and CV templates for more inspiration and valuable advice for any career!
FAQs
What do students need to know about entering the workforce?
UK students should focus on gaining both technical skills and soft skills like communication and teamwork. Internships or part-time work can greatly help. Also, keep an eye on growing industries and try to connect with people already working in those fields.
What jobs will there be in the future?
In the UK, we expect to see more jobs in areas like technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and sustainability. Think about roles such as data analysts, cybersecurity experts, sustainability technicians, healthcare professionals, AI prompt engineers, and machine learning engineers.
What are the 10 best jobs for recent graduates?
For more information, refer to our related blog article for best student jobs.
How do you handle rejection when looking for a job after graduation?
Encountering challenging situations is inevitable. Just like at university, you might face inequality, a heavy workload or a lack of guidance from superiors. In these moments, managing your emotions effectively is crucial. Embrace challenges as opportunities as opportunities for growth and innovation.
Remember, every experience, even the toughest ones, offers valuable lessons. Celebrate small achievements, and view setbacks as stepping stones toward future success. Rejection is not the end - stay persistent, keep learning, and don't be afraid to make mistakes.
How AI has changed the job market for Gen Z?
According to Forbes, 76% of Gen Z claim that they are concerned about losing their jobs to AI. AI changes are expected to disrupt the processes performed in every industry, making the job market more competitive. It is altering the skills demands, replacing old jobs with new ones that didn't exist before. Although it brings plenty of benefits and improves decision-making, it also poses threats like privacy concerns and uncertainty.
