Q. Does the Careers Service have resources that I can access online?
A. Yes, there is a wide range of employability resources that are freely accessible via our website. Visit MyCareer and search for resources on industry information, career insight films, ‘What can I do with my degree?’ as well as very specific information about CVs, applications and assessment centres. We also recommend Prospects and TargetJobs as excellent careers information websites.
Q. How can I make an appointment with a careers adviser?
A. Appointments can either be booked online via MyCareer or by calling +44 1752 587456. If you have any issues with the booking system or have queries about appointments, then please email careers@plymouth.ac.uk.
Q. I have a quick question relating to careers advice or a job application, how can I speak to someone if the Careers Hub is not open?
A. The careers team are all currently working remotely but still able to offer a very similar level of service. Please book an advice appointment via MyCareer or call us on +44 1752 587456 (9am-5pm) then we can set this up via Skype, phone or Zoom.
Q. Can I still get feedback on my CV or application during this time?
A. Yes, we still review CVs, covering letters, application forms and personal statements. You can submit your CV for checking via our CV360 automated checking system. Alternatively, you can speak to a member of the team by booking an appointment on MyCareer. We also have many resources on making applications and writing CVs across our website (and under online tools) which may be useful to you. You may want to have a look at this content before submitting your CV or other application for review.
Q. My interview will now take place via Skype. What advice can you give me in order to prepare for this?
A. We are finding that due to the nature of the crisis lots of employers are shifting conventional recruitment to online systems. There are some very useful resources on MyCareer Digital Resources that cover online recruitment including video, Skype and phone interview. Prospects also has some excellent guidance in these areas. But remember, you need to prepare for an online interview just as much as you would for a face to face one.
Q. The company I have applied to is asking me to sit an online assessment centre. What advice can you give me to prepare for this?
A. We are finding that lots of companies are shifting their recruitment online and this includes assessment centres and psychometric testing. In MyCareer Digital Resources there are a number of very useful articles including an assessment centre tool and examples of practice tests. These will help you to prepare in advance so that when you a faced with the real thing it’s much more familiar.
Q. How do I cope with having my job offer withdrawn because of the COVID-19 crisis?
A. We have heard that some students have unfortunately had offers with employers withdrawn due to COVID-19. Please feel free to get in touch with us as soon as possible and we can discuss your options with you. In the meantime, you could have a look at these skills sessions on LinkedIn Learning on building resilience.
Q. I am looking for work in the South West. What job websites do you suggest I should look at for vacancies?
A. Begin your search using the vacancy section on MyCareer but you may also like to look at Gradsouthwest and Unlocking Potential for further opportunities in Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and Avon. In addition, both Indeed Jobs and Monster Jobs have location specific features.
Q. What can I do from home to develop my skills if I'm not in a job soon after graduating?
A. Have a look at the resources on LinkedIn Learning. There are masses of courses you could benefit from including management, leadership, software, IT and even public speaking. Also, explore our online career tools to develop career management skills such as planning you career, job hunting skills and interview training.
Q. What kind of temporary work can I do right now and how will it help in my career development?
A. During this unprecedented time, there are a large volume of new temporary jobs opportunities in retail, warehouse, call centres and care work. For example, supermarkets who are dealing with the increased demand. Many are recruiting store assistants, online shopping packers, shelf stackers and delivery drivers. It is a fast-moving situation so we would advise you to look online for the major supermarkets who are mainly updating their websites to show current opportunities in your area. If you can’t find it online, it’s worth a visit to your local supermarkets (if you are able to and current guidelines allow this) to enquire about current opportunities. Take your passport and NI number with you in case they are able to progress an application there and then. You will be able to showcase a range of skills and qualities from working in these areas – such as flexibility, working under pressure, learning quickly, and you’ll get a unique insight into management and leadership within the organisation at such an interesting and challenging time.
Q. What can I do with my degree?
A. This is a common question we get asked a lot. Here on the Prospects website are some very helpful guides on 'What I can do with my degree?' It suggests jobs and careers directly related to you subject and others that are partially related.
Q. I don’t want to do anything related to my degree, what can I do?
A. This is a very common question that we get asked, where someone has studied a subject for three years and has decided as a result that they want to do some completely different. To begin with you could explore job profiles on Prospects or you could have a look at the career insight videos on MyCareer Digital Resources. If you are still stuck please do book an appointment with us.
Q. Should I still apply for graduate roles?
A. Yes. Do not let the current situation stop you from applying. Employers will be thinking about the long term, as well as the short term. Whilst there is uncertainty, and some sectors will be more affected than others, organisations will be looking to establish ‘business as normal’ as quickly as possible. You can expect the process to take longer than usual and the recruitment process to look different but using this time productively now will give you an edge when normality resumes.
Q. I have already applied, but I am just not hearing back. What should I do?
A. Be patient. If you are waiting to hear back from an employer(s) about a role(s) that you have applied for, bear in mind that this process may take longer than usual. Employers will be thinking about the best way to move forward but, if you are yet to receive any communication, you may wish to reach out to them and ask for an update. Remember to be polite, understanding and don’t expect an immediate response.
