Working in the UK : Recruitment process

Employers require candidates with:

• a good academic record, particularly at undergraduate level;
• a wide range of skills;
• some work experience, particularly relevant to the position they are recruiting for.

They will primarily be recruiting for UK-based roles, although with the increasingly global employment market some will also be recruiting for programmes overseas.

The ability to demonstrate how you meet employers’ requirements and having a good understanding of the immigration situation at the time you apply will give you the best opportunity of securing a job. See visas and work permits for more information.

How employers recruit

Many graduate schemes follow a recruitment cycle, in which employers advertise vacancies in the autumn term of the final year of study for graduates to commence employment the following autumn. For certain sectors, such as banking and finance, schemes may be advertised very early, e.g. in September with a closing date in November, so early research is advised.

Individual positions, for example those advertised by small businesses, are advertised as the vacancy arises. Some graduate recruiters advertise positions all year round.

The recruitment process will depend on the type of role for which you are applying. Smaller organisations may have a two-stage process of a written application followed by an interview. Graduate schemes have a multiple-stage process, which may contain some or all of the following:

• a written/online application form or a CV and covering letter;
• psychometric or aptitude test - either early in the selection process or at the assessment centre;
• a preliminary interview, which may be conducted over the telephone;
• an assessment centre. This is often the last stage in the selection process and may involve a further interview and a series of individual and group exercises testing different competencies, following which a job offer may be made.

Details of a company’s application and selection procedures are usually available on their website.

Your careers centre will also provide advice on the recruitment process.