Finding an IT Graduate Job

There are literally thousands of jobseekers looking for graduate jobs in IT everyday, so what can you do to differentiate yourself from the crowd?

There are a number of different ways of searching and applying for jobs one of which being online. Due to the inherent benefits associated with online recruitment more and more recruitment agencies and employers are posting jobs online.

IT Related Degrees

Within the IT sector there are hundreds of different types of jobs ranging from programming to web design to project management to IT-support. In order to get your first foot on the ladder in the IT industry it is likely that (but not essential) you will require an IT-related degree.

Many new entrants into the IT industry have a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND award or degree. Typically, these are in the following subjects:

• Web development or web design
• Multimedia design
• Digital media development
• Web content management
• Computer science
• Business information systems
• Computer programming

On top of a relevant degree employers are constantly on the look out for candidates with a strong commercial understanding.

Writing your IT CV

The application process for almost every job in the IT sector requires a candidate to submit their CV. Many employers will discount a potential candidate based on the visual appearance of their CV. It is therefore crucial to structure and present your CV in a professional manner and keep a description of any work experience or previous employment history concise. A CV should not be more then two A4 pages long and should clearly highlight your IT and technical skills.

Tailoring your IT CV to each company is essential. A generic CV will not fully demonstrate your suitability to the job nor will it show an employer any enthusiasm.

Click on the link for more information on writing your IT CV

Writing a good covering letter

Many graduates often ignore or underestimate the importance of writing a good covering letter. The purpose of a covering letter is highlight your suitability for the job and convince an employer to interview you without having to look at your CV. Together, a CV and covering letter should portray you in the best possible light. If done properly, a good covering letter can make the difference between getting an interview and not.

Click on the link for more information on writing a good covering letter

Preparing for an interview

Preparation is the key to interview success. Getting an interview is not easy and once you have secured one it is important to make the most of it. Prior to attending an interview it is important to have a clear understanding of what the job is, how and why you would be suitable for the job, what the company does, who its competitors are etc.

Many graduates frequently forget under pressure that an interview is a two way process. An interview is a chance for the employer to find out more about you and your suitability for the role and for you to find out more about them, the roles suitability for you. In order to take advantage of this opportunity it is advisable to have a set of questions that you would like to ask. Questions could be about the company culture and how they might think that you would fit in, what would be expected of you in the first 6 to 12 months, possible career paths available etc. Questions relating to salary and benefits should never be asked at an initial interview. Such negotiations should remain off the agenda until the employer approaches the subject.

Do you think you are you ready for the interview?

In recent years many graduates are finding it beneficial to take an online psychometric profiling test prior to an interview to help them better understand their strengths and turn any weaknesses into strengths. Employers are often impressed by the use of your initiative and demonstrates your dedication to finding a job.

Graduate Jobs in IT

When looking for your first main job in IT there are many different aspects that you will need to consider. The following are commonly viewed as just as important as a starting salary:

• Additional skills training and development
• The opportunity to work closely with a mentor enabling you to discuss any problems you may have
• The chance to study for further qualifications funded by the employer
• The opportunity to work within various different departments of the company giving you a wider range of experience
• The ability to fast track your career

Remember it is important to get your foot in the door of a company that can offer good career prospects.

Typical graduate jobs in IT include:

• Graduate Web Developers
• Graduate Test Engineers
• Trainee Recruitment Consultants
• Graduate Development Engineers

Click here to view the Graduate Programmes with Civil Service Fast Stream.