So, it is the Easter break, and you have some extra time to do a few extra bits. So why not use some of that time to work on your employability? 

If you did not know CareerCentral have a YouTube channel with lots of useful videos that can provide some additional support for you over the Spring break. There are videos on the GradReady campaign, UEA Award, online tests, assessment centres and much more. Do go and check it out (after you read this blog of course!). 

A few key areas that you may want to focus your attention on to start with 

  1. Brushing up that CV and tailoring it to each job and each company
    1. Do a bit of research around the company and the job on their website and places such as LinkedIn. 
    1. Check how long the CV is expected to be for each company (if you can) 
    1. Include relevant information that you feel is important for both the role and the company. 
  2. Selling yourself in the best way possible. 
    1. Completing a mock interview with CareerCentral and getting advice on what went well and what you can do better next time is one of the best ways to improve your interview technique. 

Here are 5 tips that can help you get GradReady over the Spring break 

  1. Look at CareerCentral GradReady resources here and sign up for some of the events offered and use the links to find further resources to help you out. 
  2. Practise the psychometric tests. Practice makes perfect! CareerCentral gives you access to Graduates First for free. If you want to go the extra mile, I advise also looking up what type of tests a company uses so you are practising the right tests and optimising your time. 
  3. Set up email notifications on job boards for the jobs you are looking for through Indeed, Bright network and google. If you find it easier you can sign up for job/volunteer alerts through CareerCentral and all the jobs will have been vetted by CareerCentral already. 
  4. Use LinkedIn to sell yourself, why not complete an online course through LinkedIn learning and then do a skills quiz. Show employers that you are a good candidate for the job. (Yes, there is a YouTube video about using LinkedIn to build your network)
  5. Take time to relax and Do Something Different (most activities are free) it is still a break after all. 

While you are getting yourself all GradReady over the Spring break why not also sign up to attend the UEAGradFair on the 12th of May 10 am- 2 pm (UK time). Do not forget to brush up on your CV once more if you do upload it when you sign up for the event. I liked using the CV 360 tool for a quick double-check of my CV before I sent it off anywhere. 

This is a chance to: 

  1. Meet employers with live vacancies.
  2. Attend live workshops and webinars.
  3. Research and browse current opportunities.

There is also a handy video on how to prepare for the GradFair

My final point is to Follow UEA CareerCentral on LinkedIn and watch out for the posts of different job opportunities and advice and upcoming events that could turn out to be handy. 

Last point (I promise). Enjoy the break, come back rested and rejuvenated!

Clare Purser - third year Economics and Finance student

If you're looking to get GradReady over the spring break, we have plenty of support available to you. Check out our GradReady Programme and find out about appointments, LinkedIn Learning courses, events and a lot more!