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Graduate Scheme Advice
- May 23, 2023
What is a Graduate scheme?
If you're a university student, you may find yourself wondering about graduate schemes and whether it aligns with your career aspirations. A graduate scheme is an entry-level job opportunity that spans typically between 1 to 3 years, offering graduates the chance to gain valuable insights into different aspects of an organisation.
Whilst working at an organisation under a graduate scheme, you’ll receive a full wage and usually employee benefits, but the main difference between a graduate scheme and graduate job is a graduate scheme includes ongoing training. Therefore, a graduate scheme can be seen as an extension of your university education, offering real-world experience whilst getting paid.
What are the benefits of a graduate scheme?
Due to their nature of being designed specifically for recent graduates, an extensive amount of training, support and guidance to start your career and be a successful employee will be provided. This could range from training sessions on communication, one-to-one mentoring as well as feedback from a senior manager. Many schemes also offer the opportunity to gain professional qualifications while you work such as a Master’s, PhD or an industry-recognised course.
Another benefit of a graduate scheme is job security, as the typical contract ranges from 1-3 years it offers a high level of job security while facilitating both personal growth and learning. These programs are specifically designed to train and develop graduates, ensuring that you acquire the necessary qualifications and experience to pursue more advanced roles going forward in your field.
With the intention on retaining successful graduate scheme candidates in long term positions, you could be considered upon completion of the graduate scheme. A range of career opportunities within the organisation could be offered, giving you the chance to grow and progress within a familiar and supportive environment.
Employers tend to value practical experience and by completing a graduate scheme your future employability in the future can be enhanced. Demonstrating to future employers you’ve gone to university and then done training gaining industry specific skills that you have the necessary drive and ambition to succeed. You can set yourself apart from other candidates, giving yourself competitive edge in securing future job offers.
Our top tips on how to get a Graduate scheme:
Staying proactive
By regularly checking company websites, job boards, and professional networks for new graduate scheme opportunities. Set up job alerts and maintain an active presence on professional platforms such as LinkedIn.
Stay on top of deadlines
Know the best times to apply for a graduate scheme, the application periods usually run from September to January, with jobs starting the following September.
Apply for less competitive schemes
Graduate programmes tend to be extremely competitive. But, in big companies that tend to take on a lot of graduates each year, you have a better chance of being successful.
Network
Attend career fairs, industry events and networking sessions to connect with professionals in your desired industry. Building relationships with individuals working in the field can provide valuable advice and potential referrals for graduate schemes.
Take time to write your job applications
Remember that applications take time! Be selective and spend a good amount of time on a few applications to boost your chances.
These companies are named as the top 10 graduate employers in the Times Top 100 Graduate Employers 2022/23 list:
1. Civil service
2. NHS
3. PwC
4. Deloitte
5. Google
6. EY
7. BBC
8. KPMG
9. ALDI
10. Amazon
When it comes to planning your career after university, always explore and research all the options available to you. Taking the time to gather information and understand various opportunities will help you make an informed and well-rounded decision that suits your interests and career goals.
