Categories
advice Career planning employability Employer Panels Graduate success

IoD Young Directors Forum with nijobfinder

Embarking on a career journey can be both exciting and daunting for university students. With the ever-evolving job market and increasing competition, it is crucial to gather insights from experienced professionals who have successfully navigated their own career paths. Recently, we had the privilege of hosting a panel discussion with industry experts, Gavin Annon, Claire Brannigan, Connor Diamond, and Steve Lazars, who shared valuable advice and personal anecdotes about their professional journeys.

Embrace Mistakes and Take Risks: Gavin Annon, Sales & Marketing Director at Mount Charles Group, emphasized the importance of making mistakes and taking risks. He encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, as normal is no longer the norm in today’s competitive job market. Gavin stated, “Please do go make mistakes because nothing’s perfect…you’ve got to make those mistakes and take risks.” Embracing mistakes allows for growth and learning, ultimately helping individuals discover their true capabilities.

Define Your Own Path: Claire Brannigan, Founder of Skinakin Ltd, highlighted the significance of intentionality in shaping one’s career. She emphasized the need to be intentional about where you’re going and what your why is. Claire shared her own experience, stating, “It was only when I started to take a step back and say, ‘What do you want to do? What’s your interest? What are you good at?’…things started to change.” By aligning your career choices with your values, interests, and strengths, you can find fulfillment and success.

Develop a Diverse Skill Set: The panelists emphasized the importance of developing a diverse skill set. Steve Lazars, Director & Founder of Ethnic Minority Employment & Entrepreneurship Network, urged students to broaden their horizons and gain experience across different sectors. He shared, “Putting myself out there actually gave me certain tools, contacts, and understandings about bringing solutions to the product…find some innovative ways of finding solutions.” A diverse skill set enhances adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and brings added value to any role.

Focus on People Skills: While technical knowledge is important, the panelists stressed the significance of people skills in career growth. Claire Brannigan stated, “The things that will really help accelerate your career is the human side of your skill set…being able to communicate effectively, negotiate, and understand different cultural norms.” Developing strong interpersonal skills, such as effective communication and adaptability, can set individuals apart and open doors to new opportunities.

Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning: The experts highlighted the importance of curiosity and continuous learning. Connor Diamond, Head of Digital Insights & nijobfinder.co.uk at Mediahuis Ireland, encouraged students to continually set and review goals, both professional and personal. He emphasized the value of pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work, as they can bring joy and enrich one’s life. Steve Lazars added, “Stay curious, join the dots across different domains, bring value back…always be a detective and solve problems.” Embracing curiosity and a thirst for knowledge can lead to innovative thinking and contribute to career success.

Summary: The event provided invaluable insights for students navigating their career journeys. Panellists emphasised the importance of taking risks, finding the right environment, developing a diverse skill set, staying true to personal values, and fostering a positive attitude. These key takeaways will empower students to make informed decisions, adapt to a changing job market, and embark on fulfilling and successful careers. Remember, embrace mistakes, seize opportunities, and let your values guide you.

Find more careers advice here.

Categories
Feedback Future-Ready Skills Leadership Student experience

Future-Ready Skills for Leaders Programme

At Queen’s University Belfast, the Future-Ready Skills for Leaders programme has made a significant impact on students’ personal and professional development. Participants of the program have shared their positive feedback, highlighting the transformative nature of the experience. In this blog post, we will delve into the students’ feedback and explore the valuable lessons they gained from the programme. Their testimonials demonstrate the program’s effectiveness in fostering growth, building confidence, and preparing students for future career success.

  1. A Journey of Self-Discovery: Many students expressed how the programme provided them with insights into their own strengths and areas for improvement. They appreciated the thought process behind each activity, which kept them engaged and motivated throughout the three-day duration. The experience pushed them out of their comfort zones, leading to personal growth and an enhanced understanding of themselves.

What our students say: “Participating in the Future-Ready Program has been an incredible journey for me. It taught me so much about myself, my strengths, and areas for improvement.”

  1. Importance of Teamwork and Communication: Students recognized the significance of teamwork, communication, and collaboration through their participation in real-world problem-solving activities. They appreciated the opportunity to work with peers from different degree backgrounds, which provided them with a diverse range of ideas and perspectives. The programme emphasized the value of effective communication and showcased the power of working together as a team.

What our students say: “This was a significant learning experience as it taught me the importance of teamwork, communication, and collaboration. We got to work on real-world problems and provided solutions that were innovative and practical.”

  1. Confidence Boost and Leadership Skills: The Future-Ready programme played a crucial role in boosting students’ confidence and developing their leadership skills. Engaging in activities such as pitch presentations and marketing presentations helped students realize their communication abilities and the impact they could make through their speeches. This newfound confidence encouraged them to pursue more opportunities and take on challenging situations without panicking.

What our students say: “I learned that my communication skills were in fact good and that I was making a genuine impact with my speech. This was a real eye-opener for me because it increased my confidence as a person to pursue more opportunities in the field.”

  1. Networking and Connections: Participants appreciated the opportunity to network with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds, as well as with teachers and mentors beyond their campus. The diversity of ideas and perspectives enriched their experience and expanded their professional network. They recognized the value of these connections in both their career and personal life.

What our students say: “I have made some real connections that are going to be an add-on to my career as well as my personal life.”

  1. Real-World Relevance and Transferable Skills: Students acknowledged the practicality and real-world relevance of the skills they acquired during the programme. They learned to handle complex tasks, manage unforeseen circumstances, and deliver professional projects with tight deadlines. The development of critical abilities such as problem-solving, negotiation, time management, and communication has equipped them to excel in future endeavours.

What our students say: “These learned skills are transferable to real-world scenarios as they will help me to deliver professional projects and tasks with tight deadlines. This would eventually help me to handle complex tasks and projects with deadlines in the future.”

Summary: The Future-Ready Skills for Leaders programme at Queen’s has empowered students to discover their strengths, improve their communication and leadership skills, embrace teamwork, expand their network, and develop transferable skills. By participating in this transformative experience, students have gained the confidence and readiness to face future challenges and excel in their professional lives. The Future-Ready programme continues to be a valuable opportunity for students seeking personal and professional growth.

Find out more here.

Categories
Scholarships Student experience student success

£1,000 Giveaway

All students are eligible including undergraduates, postgraduates, part-time and full-time students. We’ve created the grants in partnership with Santander Universities with the specific aim of supporting you through your studies, at a time when personal finances are stretched. You could spend your grant on study resources or use it towards living expenses over the summer break.

To apply, you must visit the Santander Scholarships platform and register for an account, if you haven’t already. After applying you will receive a confirmation email and then you can apply for the Brighter Futures Grants initiative. On the application form, you must choose Queen’s University Belfast.

Although this initiative has been built in partnership with Santander Universities, you do not need to be a Santander customer to apply. You must apply before 11pm on 30 June 2023. Once applications have closed, we’ll pick 10 students at random.

This is a unique opportunity and just one of the many ways we’re working with internal and external partners to support our students with their finances. Be sure to share this with coursemates, housemates or anyone else who might be eligible.

To find out more about the Brighter Futures Grants and how you can apply, visit the Santander Scholarships platform.

Categories
Graduate jobs Graduate success interview tips student success

10 Effective Ways to Research a Company as a Student


As a student preparing for your professional journey, researching a company before applying or attending an interview is essential. Understanding a company’s culture, values, and work environment can help you make informed decisions and find the best fit for your career aspirations. To assist you in this process, we’ve compiled a list of ten effective ways for students to research a company. From exploring their website and social media presence to reading employee reviews and attending company events, these research methods will provide you with valuable insights into the company’s ethos. So, let’s dive in and equip you with the knowledge you need to make the right career choices.

Look at the company website

Start by exploring the company’s website. Pay attention to their mission statement, values, and company culture sections. This will give you a solid foundation for understanding their overall ethos.

Check out their social media

Delve into the company’s social media presence. Look for posts that provide insights into their culture, such as employee events and activities. Social media can give you a more candid glimpse into the company’s day-to-day operations.

Read employee reviews

Browse websites like Glassdoor to read reviews from current and former employees. Their experiences can offer valuable perspectives on the company’s work environment and culture.

Talk to alumni

Reach out to any alumni who have completed a placement or worked at the company before. Alumni can provide firsthand insights into the company’s culture and help you make informed decisions.

Attend company events

Take advantage of opportunities to attend company events geared towards potential employees or interns. These events allow you to meet current employees and gain a deeper understanding of the company’s values and culture.

Research company news

Stay updated with the latest company news and press releases. This will give you valuable insights into their strategic priorities, achievements, and industry developments.

Check out their social responsibility initiatives

Many companies engage in social responsibility initiatives, such as sustainability efforts or charitable work. Understanding these initiatives sheds light on their commitment to societal impact and values.

Review their branding and marketing materials

Study the company’s branding and marketing materials, including their website, advertisements, and promotional content. These materials often reflect their culture and values, providing useful information for your research.

Look at their partnerships and collaborations

Examine the company’s partnerships and collaborations with other organizations. Understanding their network and alliances can reveal their industry standing, shared values, and strategic priorities.

Ask questions during the interview process

During interviews, don’t hesitate to ask thoughtful questions about the company’s culture and values. This demonstrates your genuine interest and eagerness to align with their vision and mission.

By following these ten effective research methods, you’ll gain valuable insights into a company’s culture, values, and overall work environment. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions and find the best fit for your professional aspirations.

Find more interview prep tips here.

Categories
Graduate success placement work experience

Top 10 Tips for Making the Most out of Your Placement

Embarking on a placement is an exciting opportunity for students at Queen’s University Belfast to gain practical experience in their chosen field. Whether you’re about to start your placement or are already knee-deep in the experience, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten tips to help you make the most of your time and thrive in the professional environment. Let’s dive in!

  1. Set Clear Objectives

Before you begin your placement, take some time to define your goals and objectives. Identify what you hope to achieve during this experience, whether it’s acquiring new skills, specializing in a particular area, or expanding your professional network. Clear objectives will keep you focused and motivated throughout your placement.

2. Understand the Company Culture

Every workplace has its unique culture and values. Take the initiative to understand your company’s culture and align your actions accordingly. Embracing the company’s values will not only help you fit in better but also make you more productive and successful in your role.

3. Develop a Good Relationship with Your Supervisor

Your supervisor will play a crucial role in guiding and supporting you throughout your placement. Building a strong relationship with them from the start is essential. Maintain open lines of communication, seek regular feedback on your work, and proactively address any challenges or concerns.

4. Be Proactive

Don’t wait for instructions; take the initiative to go above and beyond. Volunteer for new tasks and responsibilities, demonstrate your eagerness to learn, and showcase your skills. Being proactive will not only enhance your learning experience but also leave a lasting positive impression on your colleagues and supervisors.

5. Network with Colleagues

One of the greatest benefits of a placement is the opportunity to connect with professionals in your industry. Engage with your colleagues, attend company events, and participate in networking activities. Building relationships can provide valuable insights, potential mentors, and even future job opportunities.

6. Ask Questions

Never hesitate to ask questions when you’re unsure about something. It’s better to seek clarification than to make mistakes that could have been easily avoided. Remember, everyone understands that you’re there to learn, and asking questions demonstrates your dedication and willingness to grow.

7. Be Professional

Treat your placement as a professional job. Maintain a high level of professionalism at all times, from your punctuality to your appearance and behavior. Dress appropriately, respect your colleagues’ time and opinions, and adhere to the company’s policies and guidelines.

8. Keep a Record of Your Achievements

Documenting your accomplishments during your placement is essential for future reference. Keep track of your projects, tasks, and any notable achievements. This record will serve as a valuable resource when updating your resume and preparing for future job interviews.

9. Seek Feedback

Regularly seek feedback from your supervisor and colleagues. Constructive criticism will help you identify areas for improvement and develop your skills further. Embrace feedback as an opportunity for growth and demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional development.

10. Leave a Good Impression

As your placement comes to an end, ensure you leave a positive lasting impression with your employer. Express your gratitude for the opportunity and convey your interest in potential future roles within the company. This could lead to job offers or valuable references down the line.

Conclusion

Your placement at Queen’s University Belfast is a significant stepping stone towards your future career. By setting clear objectives, embracing the company culture, nurturing professional relationships, and demonstrating proactive and professional behavior, you can maximize your experience and lay a solid foundation for future success. Remember, this placement is an opportunity for growth, learning, and professional development. Make the most of it, and enjoy every moment of your journey!

Find placements on MyFuture.

Categories
Creative careers entrepreneur Graduate success Innovation international students Start Ups student success Student success stories

Savannah Dodd: Photography Ethics Centre

Photographer and camera
Savannah Dodd

My name is Savannah Dodd, I’ve studied for my PhD in Anthropology, that’s in the School of HAPP and I am the founder and director of the Photography Ethics Centre.

Tell us a bit more about your business idea.

I’m passionate about photography ethics because photographs are immensely powerful. They shape how we think about the world and this means that when we take and share photographs, we are shaping how others think about the world. So this is, like, a huge amount of power that we have as image makers and this power comes with a lot of responsibility, so I think it’s really important to think about ‘how can we use that power of image making responsibly?’ and I think a really good way of doing so is to think about it through the lens of ethics.

How did you get the initial business idea?

I founded the Photography Ethics Centre because I realised that my background in anthropology and the things that I’d learned through doing a Masters, and now a PhD in Anthropology has really prepared me with an important set of skills and these skills have helped me be more effective in my photography and more ethical about how I approach my photographic practice. So, I realised that anthropology has helped me a lot with my photography with building skills, but these skills that I’ve built are not universal. So, what I’m really trying to do is to sort of translate these skills that I gained from anthropology and make it applicable and useful for photographers who might not have the same background.

How has the business developed since your initial idea?

In some ways, not a lot has changed with the organisation since I started and in some ways, it’s changed a lot. I think the biggest change has been, really, in terms of my expectations. I think I needed to temper some of my expectations, but that’s not always easy when we’re participating in a culture of startup pitching because you really have to think in terms of best-case scenarios. So, I think tempering my expectations and maybe being happy with smaller, more marginal successes was really important. I think, on the other hand, things haven’t changed a lot because I, sort of, have come full circle back into my original idea which, I think, the lesson there is just that I need to trust my gut a little bit more.

What activities at Queen’s helped you get to where you are?

I was really fortunate that when I first had the idea for the Photography Ethics Centre, I was able to participate as part of a cohort of students to do a Kickstarter Accelerator programme through the Graduate School at Queen’s and that was just a really great opportunity to, sort of, spend time on business development with some support. I was also accepted into Dragon’s Den one year and that was a brilliant opportunity, really great practice at building my confidence and pitching and it’s just always been really beneficial to know that there’s somewhere that I can go for advice because, inevitably, I’ve run into hurdles or questions that I haven’t known how to answer so it’s been great to have the resource at Queen’s.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I think the most important piece of advice that I wish I’d had when I was first starting out is that, you know, blocking out time for other things in your life or taking breaks or relaxing on the weekends or in the evenings is that’s not a reward but that’s an important part of how you divide your time. I think by not taking time for myself to really recharge, to relax to, sort of, put the laptop away really lead me to a bit of a burnout so I think that really the biggest, biggest lesson I learned there is that, you know, breaks are not treats, you deserve them, inherently, you don’t have to earn them.

Categories
advice AHSS Arts sector Career planning Careers by sector Commercial Awareness consultants consultations Creative Creative careers Creative jobs Creativity Freelance Future Skills Course Portfolio

Choosing modules for next year?

Behind the scenes of video shooting production crew team silhouette and camera equipment in studio.
Emma Lennox, Careers Consultant

As it’s time to choose modules for next year, you can use this time to think strategically about what you want to gain over the time you have remaining at University.  While it might be tempting to find the module that best suits your train timetable, try to think about what skills you want to leave Queen’s with.  This is not the time for comfort zone thinking, what will your future self need to know? 

One of our Careers Consultants, Emma Lennox, spoke with some final year students from the School of Arts, English and Languages at Queen’s, and uncovered some insights about things they wish they had known earlier in their degree. 

Get experience. 

Try to build up work experience as a student

‘A degree is great but it just tells an employer you’re a good academic.  You want to work in TV? Marketing? Creative Arts? Teaching? Public health?  Get experience, start in first year and build that portfolio of evidence.  Don’t tell an employer you’re passionate, show them.  Don’t know where to start getting experience?  Ask your Careers Consultant, you can find them on MyFuture.  I wish I had more experience going into the work place now.’   

Final Year Creative Writing Student 

Build your understanding of the sector you want to work in 

Do your research to understand your target industry

‘I think my big ideal expectation when I first started was I was maybe going to finish my study and go straight into working for a studio, I didn’t really understand just quite how complicated the industry is and how difficult it can be to get secure work.  And I didn’t realise how much I still had to learn.’  

Final Year Film Student  

Emma’s Advice: “It can also be useful to think about freelancing, self-employment and entrepreneurship as part of your career planning. The industries that Arts graduates tend to want to work in, are often characterised by short-term contract work rather than permanent graduate roles or graduate schemes. 

According to the 2023 What do graduates do? report, Arts graduates are three times more likely to be working in freelance or self-employed roles than graduates from other areas. The report also shows that entrepreneurial creative arts graduates are more likely to be working in creative sectors aligned to their subject. If you are planning to pursue a career that uses your subject knowledge, you may need to consider freelancing or self-employment/ entrepreneurship as possible options and to prepare for what that might mean.

Arts, English and Languages students have the option of taking the Creative Enterprise module in second year which takes you through the process of creating, running and growing a creative company. Students in other years can find some information on the Future Ready Skills Course and help available from SU Enterprise.”

Find your people outside of your course. 

Extra-curricular activities are a great way to build up skills as a student

‘I spent all my time with people from my course and only discovered the programmes with Enterprise SU in final year.  Those are my kind of people, I could have been around entrepreneurs and innovators for three years instead of one.  I have a lot of catching up to do.’ 

Final Year Drama Student 

‘One of the best things I did at Queen’s was get involved with women’s sport.  I feel I’ve made a real difference there and can use all those skills in the recruitment process.  I just wished I’d got involved earlier and looked at other societies as well.’ 

Final Year English Student 

Emma’s Advice: “The Future Ready Award website is a useful place to find extra-curricular opportunities that will enable you to meet other people and develop useful skills.”

You are responsible for you. 

Be proactive and chase down opportunities

‘In school we had a careers class every fortnight and I thought that would be the same at uni.  I know now that it was up to me to chase down opportunities and be proactive.  There’s so much going on, I need another year to catch up with what I missed first time round!’ 

Final Year Broadcast Production Student  

Leverage the Careers service. 

Access Careers support through MyFuture

‘I wish I’d used MyFuture and the Careers website more, I’m only discovering internships and programmes and employers now that I’m too late to do.  And some stuff is only for first and second years.  I could have been going to events and building up contacts for three years instead of the last six months.’ 

Final Year Film Student 

Open your emails. 

Take advantage of free opportunities to develop your employability

‘I spoke to a careers consultant who mentioned a programme and I said I’d never heard of it.  They asked if I’d opened my emails because it had been sent to me.  Well that was all kinds of awkward.  Lesson learned, I’m accessing all the support now for recent graduates!’ 

Final year English and Spanish Student 

Emma’s Advice: “You can access careers support through MyFuture, the careers website and careers information through the Future-Ready Skills Course.

“All Arts, English and Languages students now have access to the Future-Ready Skills Course on Canvas (AEL4001). In that course you’ll find lots of useful information including a full section on Career Management Skills which will help you to think about your future plans and the gaps that you might have. And it’s tailored specifically to Arts, English and Languages students.

The course is completely optional and non-credit bearing, but you can get a certificate at graduation if you complete it in full.”

Find out more about the Careers, Employability and Skills service at Queen’s.

Categories
Graduate success interview tips student success

How to Succeed in an Interview as a Graduate: Essential Tips

As a recent graduate, stepping into the world of job interviews can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. However, with the right preparation and mindset, you can navigate this crucial stage with confidence and increase your chances of securing that dream job. At Queen’s University Belfast, we understand the importance of interview success, and we’ve compiled a list of essential tips to help you ace your next interview.

  1. Research the Company:

Before your interview, take the time to thoroughly research the company you’re applying to. Familiarize yourself with their mission, vision, values, and the products or services they offer. This knowledge will allow you to tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest in the organization, showing the interviewer that you’re serious about joining their team.

2. Prepare for Common Interview Questions:

While each interview is unique, there are several common questions that frequently arise across different industries. Take advantage of this by preparing your answers in advance. Reflect on your experiences, skills, and achievements, and craft concise and compelling responses that highlight your strengths. Practice your answers until you feel comfortable delivering them naturally.

3. Practice, Practice, Practice:

Practice makes perfect, and this holds true for interviews as well. Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or mentor to conduct mock interviews with you. Alternatively, you can practice in front of a mirror to observe your body language and non-verbal cues. Rehearsing your responses will boost your confidence, improve your delivery, and help you handle any unexpected curveballs during the actual interview.

4. Dress Appropriately:

First impressions matter, and your appearance plays a significant role in shaping them. Dress professionally and appropriately for the job interview, ensuring your clothes are clean, neatly pressed, and suitable for the company culture. By presenting yourself as polished and well put-together, you’ll convey your professionalism and respect for the opportunity.

5. Arrive Early:

Punctuality is a sign of reliability and respect. Make it a point to arrive early for your interview. This will not only give you a buffer in case of unexpected delays but also allow you to compose yourself before the meeting. Arriving on time demonstrates your commitment to the process and sets a positive tone for the rest of the interview.

6. Show Enthusiasm:

During the interview, it’s crucial to let your enthusiasm shine through. Smile, maintain good eye contact, and engage actively with the interviewer. Express your genuine interest in the role and the company, highlighting specific aspects that appeal to you. Positive energy and a friendly demeanour can make a lasting impression and showcase your potential as a motivated and passionate candidate.

7. Highlight Your Skills and Experiences:

Use the interview as an opportunity to showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements. Relate your past accomplishments to the requirements of the job, providing specific examples that demonstrate your capabilities. Whether it’s through internships, coursework, or extracurricular activities, emphasize how your unique background and skill set can contribute to the company’s success.

8. Ask Thoughtful Questions:

At the end of the interview, the interviewer will typically ask if you have any questions. Prepare a list of thoughtful and relevant questions about the company, the role, or the team dynamics. This not only demonstrates your interest and engagement but also allows you to gather valuable insights about the position and company culture. Asking insightful questions showcases your curiosity and shows that you’ve done your homework.

Conclusion:

Embarking on the job interview journey as a graduate can feel overwhelming, but remember that you possess unique skills and experiences that make you an attractive candidate. By researching the company, practicing your responses, dressing appropriately, arriving early, and showing enthusiasm, you can greatly enhance your likelihood of performing successfully during your interview.

Find out more: https://www.qub.ac.uk/sites/graduate-support/

Categories
Career Options Career planning employability Future-Ready Skills Graduate success

Are you Future-Ready?

As a student, you are on a journey to build a foundation for your future career. However, being future-ready is more than just getting good grades or completing a degree. It requires a set of skills and competencies that will prepare you to thrive in the workplace and make a positive impact in the world. Here are some tips to help you become future-ready while at Queen’s University Belfast.

Be curious

Curiosity is a key driver of learning and growth. It helps you to explore new possibilities, discover innovative solutions, and enhance your creativity. To nurture your curiosity, be open to new experiences and perspectives. Take advantage of opportunities to study abroad, attend workshops and conferences, or engage in extracurricular activities. Stay curious about the world around you, and never stop learning.

Be kind

Empathy is a fundamental human trait that is essential for building relationships, fostering collaboration, and creating positive change. To develop your empathy skills, practice active listening, express appreciation and gratitude, and show compassion towards others. Build a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advisors who can help you navigate the challenges of university life and beyond.

Develop resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to change, and overcome adversity. It is a critical skill for success in the workplace, where you will face numerous challenges and obstacles. To develop resilience, practice self-care, seek support from others, and learn from your failures. Challenge yourself to take on new tasks and responsibilities, and use them as opportunities for growth and learning.

Foster your creativity

Creativity is the ability to generate new and innovative ideas that can solve problems, inspire change, and create value. To foster your creativity, engage in activities that inspire you and allow you to express your unique talents and perspectives. Join clubs and societies that align with your interests and passions, and collaborate with others to develop new projects and initiatives.

Learn to work in teams

Teamwork is a fundamental skill that is essential for success in the workplace. To develop your teamwork skills, seek out opportunities to collaborate with others on projects, volunteer in your community, or participate in extracurricular activities. Learn to communicate effectively, listen actively, and contribute to a shared goal. Take on leadership roles where you can guide and support others towards a common objective.

Inspire action

Action is the ability to take initiative, make decisions, and achieve your goals. To inspire action, identify your passions, strengths, and values, and pursue them with purpose and determination. Take calculated risks, learn from your mistakes, and seek out opportunities to make a positive impact in your community and beyond. Be a role model for others by demonstrating integrity, honesty, and ethical behaviour.

Summary

In conclusion, being future-ready is a journey that requires continuous learning, growth, and development. By adopting these tips and strategies, you can prepare yourself to succeed in the workplace and make a meaningful contribution to society. Remember, your time at Queen’s University Belfast is an opportunity to build a strong foundation for your future, so make the most of it!

Read more: Go.qub.ac.uk/futurereadygraduates

Categories
communication skills Future-Ready Skills personal skills Skills transferrable skills

Work-Related Skills and Experiences

Students in the SU playing a game of chess.
Students in the SU playing a game of chess.

As a student at Queen’s University Belfast, you have a unique opportunity to develop work-related skills and gain valuable experience that will set you up for success in your future career. While it’s important to focus on your studies, it’s equally important to make time for extracurricular activities and work experience that will enhance your employability and make you stand out to potential employers.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 reasons why developing work-related skills and experience during your time at university is so important.

  1.  Improved Employability: Developing work-related skills and experience can significantly increase a student’s employability. Employers often look for candidates with relevant skills and experience in addition to their degree.

 2 Gaining Practical Experience: Work-related skills and experience can provide students with practical experience in their field of study. This hands-on experience can be valuable in applying what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

3, Building Professional Networks: Working while studying can help students build professional networks and connections, which can lead to future job opportunities.

4. Learning Time Management: Balancing work and study can be challenging, but it can also help students develop time management skills that are essential in the workplace.

5. Developing Communication Skills: Working with colleagues, customers, and clients can help students improve their communication skills, which is a critical aspect of many professional roles.

6. Improving Problem-Solving Skills: Work-related experiences can challenge students to think critically and problem-solve in ways that classroom learning may not. These skills are highly valued by employers.

7. Demonstrating Initiative and Drive: Pursuing work-related experiences while at university demonstrates initiative and drive to potential employers, which can set students apart from their peers.

8. Gaining Confidence: Successfully managing work and study responsibilities can help students gain confidence in their abilities and increase their self-esteem.

9. Acquiring Industry Knowledge: Working in a specific industry can provide students with a deeper understanding of that industry, including trends, challenges, and opportunities.

10. Enhancing your CV: Work-related experiences can enhance a student’s CV and make them stand out to potential employers.

In conclusion, developing work-related skills and gaining experience during your time at Queen’s University Belfast is crucial for your future career success. Not only will it make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers, but it will also give you the practical skills and knowledge you need to excel in your chosen field. So take advantage of the opportunities available to you, whether that means joining a student society, completing an internship or work placement, or volunteering in your local community. With hard work and dedication, you can build a strong foundation for a fulfilling and rewarding career.

‘Discover’ is the first phase of our Future-Ready Roadmap – a framework designed to help you progress your employability throughout your time at Queen’s. Find out more here:

https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/future-ready-roadmap/