Careers Advice

  • A CV is perhaps the most important tool in your search for an internship or job. It is crucial in forming a potential employer's first impression of you and is your best chance to demonstrate all the experience and skills you have. If you can create a CV that is well-structured, easy to read and interesting you have won half the battle.
  • Like all aspects of an application, your CV should always highlight your abilities and provide evidence of how you have used them. This might not necessarily be in a work context. For example, being social sec of a university sports club or society demonstrates organisation, motivation and people skills. Also, don't dismiss summer jobs or part-time work as irrelevant. By way of an example your Saturdays spent toiling away in Topshop will have helped you develop knowledge of customer service, commercial awareness and sales nous. Have a look at our helpful guide for lots of tips and advice
  • An interview is the chance to show a potential employer that you are even more than what was down on paper - so make sure you stand-out (for the right reasons!) and leave not only a great first impression - but also a lasting one. Preparation is key. It's obvious that a candidate who is punctual and has researched the employer and job role will be heads above the one who turned up late, blamed traffic, and blagged their way through the interview - so be ready, be serious and make certain you are the former. Remember, being invited in for an interview means the employer is already interested in you, so be confident in yourself and your abilities to make sure they are still interested by the time you leave!
  • For top tips and guidance on how to both prepare for and conduct yourself during your interview check out our 'Interview tips' slideshow.
  • If you have been lucky enough to acquire an internship then don't let the opportunity go to waste! View it not only as the chance to get some real experience and knowledge about the job field you hope to pursue, but also as an opportunity to learn and develop the skills you already have to boost that CV and enhance your prospects as a desirable candidate for the next job opportunity.
  • The more dedicated, tuned in and enthusiastic you are during your internship than the more likely it is that the employer will offer further work or even a full-time job. It's down to you to make sure the internship is worthwhile, so give it your all and ensure that it benefits you.
  • Have a look at our useful guide for further advice on making sure you get the most out of your internship.