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How to get Ahead of the Pack

Graduates of 2008 are already learning the hard facts of recession. Many companies are trying to cut costs, and unfortunately, one of the first areas to suffer is trainee and graduate recruitment. Graduates face even harder competition for the fewer places available to them. It’s not only students that suffer in this climate either- anyone who has taken a career break, or has been made redundant knows how difficult it can be to get back into work, and it is now harder than ever.

One of the many problems that graduates face is the increasing difficulty faced by just getting a foot through the door- in today’s business world, potential employers can view CV’s online using recruitment companies like Reed, without ever having to leave their desks. It is for this reason that graduates and indeed anyone looking to get back into the business world need to do everything they can to impress a prospective employer.

One of the best bits of advice for graduates is to ensure they visit all the major graduate recruitment fairs. It allows graduates and employers the opportunity of being fully aware of the situation. The talks and seminars are always helpful, and it is one of the last few ways you can actually make an impression on an employer- it makes so much more of a difference having a recruiter remember a name when viewing a CV and then being able to put a face to it.

For anyone wanting to get into upper level management now is a good time to try and improve their skills, experience and knowledge during this period of uncertainty. Whether that involves going back to school and furthering a degree, or attending seminars and courses, it is all an incredibly effective way of getting employers to put your CV to the top of the pile. All of the major business schools offer courses ranging from MBA’s to shorter courses. A good place to look would be the Ashridge Business School. It was ranked number one in the UK for the second year running for tailored executive education in the 2008 Financial Times rankings. Ashridge offers full time and part time MBA’s, and also shorter courses in subjects like leadership training.

Once you have improved yourself, you’ll be ready to start looking for the jobs you deserve.  Try to get your CV on as many agencies as possible to maximise your chances. Sites like totaljobs.com and Reed have thousands of jobs just waiting for the right people, it’s just a matter of those people making sure they’re found.

Let's Talk

The easiest way to understand how we can help, and whether you feel that you could work with us, is to begin with a conversation.

We don't believe in a "hard sell" and often find that people get value out of the exploratory discussion - whether or not we go on to work together.

Please Contact Us – we would love to hear from you.