How to find a job

Ready to start your job search, but not sure where to begin? We can help! 

The key is to try a variety of different approaches, so you’re seeing the most opportunities possible. Don’t just rely on the major job boards – be more creative in your job search, like more niche vacancy pages. 

We’ve got a few suggestions below, can you utilise all these things to find a job? 

If you’re an international student, don’t forget to research your working rights based on your immigration status or contact the Student Visa Advice team with any questions.

Careers Service 

First stop is us, your Careers Service! We offer a huge, searchable database of local, national and international job opportunities, as well as many exclusive student and graduate internship opportunities. 

Remember we’ve got expert advisers to help you with applications, too. Check out the Union's Joblink service for part-time and temporary vacancies.  

Job websites 

The quickest and easiest way to find advertised graduate vacancies is through job websites, who host thousands of new vacancies every day. Some, like Milkround and Prospects, are purely graduate-focused, whereas others are more general. 

Student Circus

Student Circus is a dedicated platform for international students with pre-filtered job opportunities that fit your needs and aspirations. Get tailored support to your job search and browse for opportunities in more than 20 countries.

Recruitment agencies 

Using recruitment agencies as part of your job search can be an effective way of finding a broader range of opportunities. Employers use agencies for a range of reasons, but often if recruiting for specialist roles or roles which require previous experience.

Others may use an agency for all their recruitment. For more information, see Prospects advice on recruitment agencies.

Speculative enquiries 

Going out of your way to actively seek opportunities – especially when vacancies are not being advertised – is a great way to prove your drive and initiative to potential employers.

Approaching a company directly puts you ahead of the competition and shows your commitment to the company and job; it could be enough to swing the interview balance in your favour. For more information, see our pathway on speculative applicatons or Prospects advice on writing a speculative job application.

Making connections 

Many jobs never get advertised; most estimates state the majority of jobs are not widely advertised. Developing your network will enable you to tap into the so-called 'hidden' jobs market and find out more about specific careers or entry requirements and companies.

Speaking to employers can seem like a scary prospect, but we can help with events such as our Careers Fairs and opportunities like our mentoring schemes. You could also try taking a LinkedIn Learning course on networking – there’s loads to choose from!

Social media 

More and more companies use social media channels as a way of finding the best graduates. Not only do networks like LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Facebook keep you updated on the latest vacancies at top companies, but you can speak directly to those who might be interviewing you.

Just remember that it works both ways: employers will almost certainly be checking your online presence before inviting you for an interview. For more information, see Prospects advice on social media and job hunting.