This is a guest post from Royal Holloway student Julia Janton about her placement application process and her top tips for 2nd years just about to embark on their applications.
Applying for a job is rarely easy. Especially in a position where we are just starting
our career paths. You need to convince and prove to the employer that you not
only have the potential but you're also the ideal candidate. You
need to know how to sell yourself.
My
YIB application process lasted from late September until late March. I have
completed multiple job application forms, tests, interviews, and a couple of
assessment centres. And it was all worth it. Because now, I can announce that I'll
be working at Pfizer UK Headquarters.
You
need to ask questions, actively listen, and practice. A lot. What
for…?
To
learn how to excel in a recruitment process. So, talk to the YIB and Careers
team (a.k.a. legends), your Personal Tutor, and anyone that can help you. Take
advantage of all the resources that the RHUL offers. But also, do your own
research. Because remember.
It
is up to you and only you to get that job. So, you need to
put in your time and effort if you want to get an offer. Yes, the process is
challenging. But keep in mind that the placement itself will be even more
challenging. So, you will need to come out of your comfort zone.
Please don't
give up when you get that ‘Thanks, but no'. Rather, try to figure
out where and how you can improve. Discuss things with YIB/Careers
team, get feedback from the employer, work on your LinkedIn profile, practice
tests, schedule a CV check meeting, a practice interview. Check
your emails, stay organised: know where and when you applied, what stage you’re
at. The list goes on and on, so… Just do it! (Nike, please don't sue me).
Finally, keep looking for new opportunities on companies' websites and sites
like LinkedIn, ratemyplacement, indeed, ziprecruiter, glassdoor, etc.
A
nice and wise quote for you:
“You are capable of more than
you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best,
however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honourably. Prepare to be alone at
times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give. “
– E. O. Wilson
