Case studies: Graduate scheme recruitment consultant: Jennifer Gilbert

Jennifer's work experience made her stand out from the other candidates applying for a graduate scheme...

When I began my job hunt I visited my university careers service, job fairs and local recruitment companies. I also updated my CV on relevant job boards. However, I found my current position at the technical recruitment company Fircroft online at prospects.ac.uk.

I don't think my subject of study played a vital part in me getting my current job. I studied English (at the University of Leicester) because I enjoyed it and didn't really think about a career path. I think my work experience in retail and telesales was more influential in me securing my role than my subject of study. 

They did ask me a lot about what skills I could bring forward from my degree in my final stage interview, things I stated included analytical skills (assessing CVs) and communication skills - written and verbal (when speaking with candidates and clients).

Joining Fircroft on their graduate development programme means I haven't just worked in one department. I have worked in recruitment, payroll, invoicing, credit control, accounts, quality assurance, IT, marketing, and tenders and, as Fircroft is an international business, I spent time with the travel team. Each department gave me different responsibilities and projects, so no two days or even hours have been the same.

My general responsibilities in recruitment on a day to day basis include networking and interviewing candidates, speaking with clients about their requirements and account managing our contracts with them. In addition, I speak with people in Fircroft to ensure the candidates have everything they need, from being paid to their travel and visas.

The role has developed as I've moved through the business, and the training manager (who organises the scheme) has been responsive to my interests when deciding my next placement. There are opportunities to go into management after my graduate scheme, as well as moving overseas in the next few years.

I enjoy the variety of the job and being able to network with people throughout the company, as well as developing long-lasting relationships with candidates and clients. This sector is very people focused and needs strong communication skills.

As I have come from an English background, I found it quite challenging having to adapt to certain departments such as Accounts. Spending a month with them took me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to experience a job role I perhaps wouldn't have chosen before the scheme.

I would advise anyone who would like to get into this career to get work experience. I have been told that what set the successful candidates apart was a strong work history, and having project managed the next graduate intake as part of my scheme, I know the importance of standing out to employers.

AGCAS

Written by AGCAS editors

Date: 

February 2011

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