Can’t Find a Job After University?

Graduating from university marks the end of years of hard work and the beginning of a new chapter in the world of work. However, for many recent graduates, the job search that follows can frustrating and disheartening. You might find yourself applying for job after job, only to hear nothing back.

While you may feel as though things aren’t moving forward, a few targeted actions can help you become much more marketable in your job search. Sometimes, small changes in how you present yourself or approach applications can lead to big results.

So, here are some key points to take on board if you’re struggling to find a job after university:

It’s OK to take some time out after university

If you’re struggling to land a job after university, it’s completely okay to take a break before diving into the job hunt. Graduating can be a tough transition and giving yourself some time to focus on your well-being is very valuable, both for your mental health and your career choices. After the academic grind of university, it’s easy to overlook what truly excites you or where your skills might best fit. Taking a step back and reflecting on your interests and values can help you approach your job search with more clarity and purpose when you’re ready to jump back in.

Also, constantly applying for jobs and potentially dealing with rejection can wear you down. Taking some time away from it all—whether it’s a few weeks or even a couple of months—gives you the space to recharge. You’ll return to your job search with more energy and a refreshed mindset.

Re-evaluate your strategy

If you’ve been applying for roles for several months and haven’t had much response from hiring managers, it may be time for some self-reflection. Making a few small changes can make a drastic difference to your success:
Take a step back and ask yourself:

• Are you targeting the right roles? It’s easy to get caught up in applying for anything and everything. While it’s great to cast a wide net and open your mind to different paths, be sure that you’re focusing on positions that align with your degree qualification and the skills you’ve developed. If you apply to roles outside of your field, the likelihood is that the competition will be stronger and you’re likely to be overlooked.
• Is your CV tailored for each job? Sending out the same generic CV can harm your chances of getting to the next hiring stage. Employers are keen to determine why you’re the perfect fit for this role, so tailor your CV to highlight your skills and experience that match the job description. A few quick tweaks can make you look more relevant to recruiters.
• Are you leveraging networking effectively? It’s easy to focus all your energy on applying to online jobs, but networking can be just as valuable when starting your career. Have you been reaching out to alumni or got in touch with graduate recruitment agencies, such as Inspiring Interns? Even casual conversations about your goals can lead to valuable connections that might open doors to hidden job opportunities.

Upskill

The job market is always changing, and employers are looking for candidates who not only have the right qualifications but also show a genuine commitment to growing on a professional level. Therefore, it’s important to continually build and expand your skill set to stay competitive. As industries evolve, staying relevant through upskilling is essential for boosting your chances of landing your dream job.

Platforms like Coursera and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of free and paid courses that can help you develop new technical abilities or refine essential soft skills like communication and project management. Many of the courses are self-paced, so you can learn at your own speed while still dedicating time to your job search.

Consider relocating after university

If you’re finding it difficult to land a job in your current location, consider the possibility of relocating to a different UK city.

London remains the UK’s financial hub, with an abundance of roles in banking, finance, and consultancy. It’s also a hotspot for creative industries, with a large number of opportunities in marketing, advertising, and design. If you’re in tech, Manchester is another city on the rise, with a rapidly growing digital sector and an ever-expanding startup scene. Meanwhile, for those in media or performing arts, cities like Liverpool and Edinburgh offer vibrant cultural scenes that offer opportunities in these fields.

Ask for feedback

Have you ever asked for constructive feedback directly from hiring managers?

After an interview or even after receiving a rejection, consider reaching out to politely ask for their thoughts on how you can improve. While not all hiring managers may be able to provide detailed feedback due to time constraints or company policies, many will be willing to offer at least some basic advice on how to improve going forward.

You could also ask for feedback on your CV or cover letter. While this isn’t something they are required to do, getting their perspective on how your application materials come across could reveal whether your skills are being highlighted in the most effective way or if you’re missing key industry-specific terminology that could help you stand out amongst hundreds of applicants.

Find your dream graduate job today

Tired of endlessly applying for jobs online with little to show for it?
Register with Inspiring Interns and gain access to our exclusive jobs board, where you’ll find a range of exciting graduate opportunities.

We’ll connect you directly with top employers looking for fresh talent. Start taking control of your job search, and let us help you take the next step in your career today!