By Laura Bill, Head Writer at Inspiring Interns
Looking for your first graduate job can be a daunting and time-consuming task. You may have already spent hours browsing job postings online and sending companies countless CVs, but haven’t yet heard anything back from employers.
That’s where a recruitment agency comes into play. These companies specialise in connecting job seekers with potential employers, which can help streamline the job search process and secure your ideal role. If you have never dealt with an agency before, it can be difficult to know what to expect and how to make the most of the opportunity.
Research the agency first
Many people assume that all recruitment agencies operate in the same way, but in reality, each agency has its unique approach. Some agencies concentrate on specific areas of employment, such as placing candidates in specific professions, while others may cater specific target audiences such as graduates or those looking for part-time or remote roles.
While it's easy to simply choose the very first agency that appears on a Google search, it’s best to carry out some research before signing up to understand what they have to offer and if they can match you with the right job.
Inspiring Interns for example, is a graduate recruitment agency that specializes in connecting graduates with London-based grad jobs and internships. They utilise the video CV to showcase a job seekers' skills, experiences and personality traits in a bid to boost their chances of being hired by employers.
Make a good first impression
First impressions truly count when first contacting a graduate recruitment agency.
Typically, you will have an introductory chat with a member of the team via a phone call to determine certain aspects such as the career you’re hoping to branch into, your professional background and qualifications. From the get-go, be sure to present yourself as enthusiastic, polite and professional. Recruiters need to have confidence in your ability to represent their agency to potential employers.
Developing positive relationships with recruitment consultants can significantly enhance your chances of landing your desired grad job. Ultimately, they will serve as your advocate and champion you in the job market, highlighting your strengths to potential employers and why you’re a good fit for their company.
Moreover, presenting a polished CV can stand you in good stead when signing up agencies. However, the Talent Development Team will help you sharpen up your CV by helping you highlight the skills, qualifications, and experiences that match the sector you wish to branch into and of course, demonstrate your potential as a top candidate.
Be open-minded with jobs
While you may already have a certain job type in mind, you should never close yourself off to opportunities. Recruitment agencies are brimming with jobs in a variety of sectors which may surprisingly align with your skills, experience and qualifications.
When contacted about a job opportunity, try and have an open mind and don’t dismiss it immediately, even if it doesn't precisely meet your expectations. Consultants often send grad jobs to candidates they believe could be a good fit for the role and area good match for the company culture. You never know – the job you are recommended for could still provide valuable experience and opportunities for growth which may steer you on the path towards your goals.
Honesty is the best policy
While you may be tempted to embellish aspects of your CV to boost your chances of getting hired, false information could harm your chances of success during an interview.
The good news is that consultants are on hand to work with you to outline reasons for gaps in your employment and guide you in communicating this information while still demonstrating that you're an excellent fit for the job role.
It’s natural for new graduates to have little or no previous work experience, therefore, consultants are likely to focus on highlighting relevant skills and achievements gained from academic pursuits or extracurricular activities.
On the hunt for a graduate job? Inspiring Interns are a grad recruitment agency that offers jobs in all sectors, including Sales, Design, Marketing, Finance, Tech and more. Sign up today and check out their job board for the latest available roles.