Meeting employers

 As a postgraduate taught student you already have a degree under your belt, which places you in an excellent position when talking to employers.

You should make the most of this and use it to your advantage. In addition to this, you are undertaking further study, which demonstrates your commitment to learning and provides a future employer with additional skills.

Many employers really value a postgraduate taught qualification, but some are not aware of the significance of it. YOU need to sell yourself!

Here's a handy infographic to get you started. (Click the image for a larger version. Click here for an accessible version (PDF - 62KB)).

Why should I hire you infographic - please see transcript below

What do employers think of postgraduates?

Lauren McCafferty

Student Recruitment Senior Manager, PwC

“Critical thinking skills, heightened analytical skills, an ability to work independently, and communicating complex theories to people who don’t come from that background: those are the great skills that a postgraduate can offer an employer like myself.”



Tessella logoTessella really value employees with a postgraduate qualification because they bring the following skills: (View an accessible version of the Tessella skills infographic (PDF - 59KB)) 

Tessella skills infographic

Find out more about the employer perspective on postgraduate study:

Meeting employers

Here at the University of Birmingham we provide you with many varied opportunities to meet prospective employers. Talking to employers can help you gain a greater understanding of your future job roles. It can also give you an insight into the skills that employers regard as the most valuable, which can be crucial when applying for jobs.

Internships and work experience are a great way to find out more about specific jobs and sectors and also enhance your CV.  We create opportunities for you to work for employers from campus and compete in real-world business challenges.  One such opportunity is the Masters Consultancy Challenge.

Careers fairs

There are a variety of careers fairs held during the autumn term.

We also hold international careers fairs off campus during spring term, in collaboration with other Midlands Universities.

When attending a careers fair it is important to plan ahead to make sure you stand out from the crowd:

  • Research companies attending that you are interested in
  • Prepare questions to ask based on what you already know about the company and the opportunities they have available
  • Practise introducing yourself – maybe come up with an elevator pitch
  • Practise your hand shake
  • Dress smart
  • Take your CV
  • Get the employer’s contact details so you can follow up with them after the fair – be proactive

Employer events

Throughout October a number of employers speak to students to provide information about their opportunities, so keep an eye on the events calendar so you don’t miss out. And remember – plan ahead to make a good impression. (See the Careers Fair tips in the section above).

We hold informal Getting to know sessions with various employers. This is your opportunity to clarify information for job applications or find out more about specific companies and sectors.

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