Getting a graduate job in business, consulting and management

The business sector is doing well and there is optimism surrounding job opportunities. Find out how to get work experience and what skills employers are looking for…

Do I need a related degree?

A relevant degree is not necessary but may be advantageous. Some employers will seek particular skills, such as IT or marketing, depending on their business focus. A postgraduate qualification such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) can help further your career.

Some of the larger companies ask for a 2:1 and will sometimes also specify UCAS points. Requirements set by smaller companies may vary.

What skills do employers want?

Employers in the business, consulting and management sector often look for graduates with:

• the ability to work under pressure;
• creative thinking;
• good communication skills;
• a willingness to work collaboratively;
• the ability to adopt a solutions-orientated approach to business ideas.

Where can I get work experience?

Employers in this sector place a strong emphasis on previous work experience. Many firms offer summer placements, internships or a year in industry for undergraduate students, which can lead to a permanent job or place on a graduate scheme.

To become a consultant, graduates will need extensive experience and knowledge of the business world before they can offer advice to businesses. This can be gained through work experience that involves working with data or spending time learning about how a particular business operates.

To find work placements and internships in the business sector, search for work experience.

How do I find a graduate job in business and management?

Trade publications, professional bodies and specialist recruitment websites can be valuable sources of information for identifying vacancies as well as keeping up to date with key issues in the sector. Some examples of specialist titles include:

• BLT (Beament Leslie Thomas)  
• Consultantsboard  
• Mindbench  

Many graduates start their business careers in jobs that involve collecting, analysing and using data as part of a graduate job or training scheme. Once they have acquired some business knowledge and gained substantial experience, they can begin providing consultancy services.

To find jobs and graduate schemes in the business sector, search graduate jobs in management, statistics and accountancy.