Tag: graduate success

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Careers programmes

Q&A with Queen’s Graduate, Tom Smith of Allstate

Q&A with Tom Smith who is a Queen’s University Belfast  Graduate who started his career with Allstate as an Intern, moving to a Placement, which then led him to Graduate employment at the company in the Billing and Payments team within Allstate Canada

Why did you want to work at Allstate?

When I was in the first year of my computer science degree I saw a notice in an email from the Queens’ University Belfast Careers team, advertising Allstate’s Insights program, which was a series of workshops over a few days of the Easter holidays. I attended the workshops, and was offered the chance to interview for a summer internship. I got a place on the internship and have now worked here for three years.

What does a typical day look like?

I work on the Billing and Payments team within Allstate Canada. I work on a global team, with colleagues in India and Canada. As a result, I have time to get most of my actual work with the other developers done in the mornings, and then after lunch, my Canadian colleagues come online and that’s when things get busier and most of my meetings happen. I work from home most days, but go into the Belfast office at least once a week to see the others in my department, and usually play a bit of pool at lunchtime.

How was the transition from Intern > Placement > Grad?

Both teams that I’ve worked on have been very accommodating and supportive, pairing me up with one of the other developers on the team who I could work closely alongside to learn about the internal systems and the digital products the team is responsible for. It feels like there has been something of a change in my role at each annual milestone. When I first started as a summer intern, I was on the team that managed collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom. I then switched teams when I started my placement year, when I moved into the Allstate Canada Group. My team was known as Corporate Services, providing internal software services for both the Finance team and the Law and Regulation team. This team then merged with the Billing and Payment team between my placement year and starting as a graduate, introducing a new group of products for me to work on with a larger group of teammates.

What do you like about Allstate and your role?

There’s a big focus on a learning culture in Allstate. We have access to a large selection of in-house and external Learning & Development resources which we are encouraged to make use of. I also enjoy the social aspect of working at Allstate. On top of the events put together by individual teams (we went Axe Throwing recently), there is a constant stream of events being organised that all employees can attend. Personally, I regularly join the free cinema trips, but there are loads of other opportunities including a 5-a-side team, board game nights and the monthly beer and pizza event. The events are good fun and a chance to meet people outside of your team.

 Any tips for those applying for an early careers opportunity?

Think about what benefits you personally bring to a team/company. At this stage of your career, you probably don’t have much technical experience that will set you apart from other candidates who have done the same uni assignments, and Allstate’s training resources are great for teaching you what you need to know, but a good team-worker who wants to engage with their colleagues and get involved with events from our various Employee Impact Groups is someone who will do well at Allstate.

To find out more about Careers at Allstate visit their website: https://www.allstateni.com/careers.aspx

Allstate NI are sponsors of the Queen’s Autumn Careers Fair 2024 – to find out more about Queen’s Careers Fairs visit https://go.qub.ac.uk/careersfair

Categories
Careers programmes gradireland Graduate success

The gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards 2024

gradireland undergraduate of the year

Queen’s Computer Science student Tim Chan, takes us through his night as an award nominee at the gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards 2024.

Take it away Tim…

“A few months ago, an email from the Queen’s Student Union’s VP of Undergrad Education told us about the gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards. The gradireland Undergraduate of the Year Awards is an annual competition aimed at finding the best undergraduates in Ireland. Each award is sponsored by a different graduate recruitment company with its own prize including things like cash prizes or work experience with the graduate employer.”

“I nominated myself for the ‘Difference Maker Undergraduate of the Year Award’, in the hope of highlighting some of the work I do in student societies and as school rep for EEECS to inspire other students to also take part in these rewarding activities. The nomination process included an online application form with specific questions about the award, an online test and an online interview (this differs depending on the award category). About a month later, I received an email that I was shortlisted as one of the top 10 finalists of the award, and was invited to the final award ceremony in Dublin.”

“The award ceremony was in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin during April, and it was amazing. We were greeted by gradireland and were given complimentary tea/coffee and some snacks for about an hour of networking with finalists from all the award categories. This was followed by an amazing three course dinner, which was really good, better than any formal dinner I’ve been to during uni. It was at that table that I met another student from Queen’s, Mary Freeman, who was nominated for the same award category, and we found out that we were even on the same train on the way down.”

“During the awards dinner we sat with representatives from the graduate employer sponsor of our award. That was when I met Barry who was currently the Vice President of Chartered Accountants and was about to enter a new role as President. I thought the experience was going to be super scary, but everyone was very friendly, we shared funny experiences and everyone’s career journey even though mine hadn’t even started and everyone was very down to earth.”

“Whilst I didn’t win the final award, this was an amazing experience. I got to network with other amazing finalists and was told that if a careers as a Software Engineer doesn’t work out, I could always try accountancy. I would definitely recommend anyone to apply for the awards when they come out in future years, there’s absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain!”

Some highlights from the night of the awards, including that amazing three course awards dinner!

Categories
CVs Graduate jobs Graduate success placements Scholarships STEM student success work experience

Get Future-ready with The Defence STEM Undergraduate Sponsorship Scheme

Scientist doing experiment

Is it right for you?

Do you want to be an integral part of maintaining national security now and in the future, whilst developing your skills and career within the Nuclear industry? Would you like the opportunity to have an exciting and varied career working with the most cutting edge technology? Then this Defence STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) Undergraduate Sponsorship (DSUS) Scheme could be the opportunity you are looking for! This is a genuinely exciting time to join the Ministry of Defence (MOD) if you want to be at the heart of real Defence issues. You will get to work on a high profile and distinctive portfolio which is rarely out of the news and have a unique insight into the captivating world of nuclear. You will require an eagerness to learn, an inquisitive mind with a logical approach to problem solving, self-motivation, and the ability to learn from practical and theoretical studies. The scheme requires dedication from you to complete the remainder of your STEM degree and commit to work in the DNE for a minimum of 3 years after you graduate. If this sounds like you, then we want to hear from you!

During your studies:

If you are accepted onto this sponsorship scheme, whilst you study for your degree, we will:

  • Pay your tuition fees (up to £9,250 each year for the remainder of your studies, to a maximum of 3 years).
  • Pay you a bursary of £5,000 each year for the remainder of your studies.
  • Organise paid work placements for you in a variety of locations across the UK – these placements are crafted to give you experience of the DNE that will be of value to your future career and to your development

Upon graduation:

On successful completion of your degree, we will appoint you to a permanent job within the DNE. Your contracted hours will be 37 hours per week. You will initially start as an Executive Officer (EO) (current minimum £27,080). At the 2-year point there may be an opportunity for you to re-grade (promote) to Higher Executive Officer (HEO) (current minimum £33,830). Roles are available in a variety of locations across the UK. We will continue to support you with professional development in order to maintain your skills and professional accreditations.

Who is eligible?

You must be studying for a degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) approved by the Engineering Council (engc.org.uk) OR be studying a degree from the list in the relevant advert. You can apply for this scheme at any stage of your studies from first to final year. You must be able to undertake paid work placements for up to 45 days during the summer. You must commit to work within the DNE on graduation and for a minimum of three years. Please note that this is an undergraduate scheme – so if you have already graduated, you will not be eligible.

Where are the opportunities?

The Defence Nuclear Enterprise (DNE) is made up of several government and industry organisations that sustain the UK’s nuclear deterrent. This includes the organisations, programmes, and people within government and industry that help deliver the UK’s nuclear capability. There are opportunities in Portsmouth, Bristol and Reading, each advertised under a separate reference number.

How to apply

Civil Service Jobs: civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk

Portsmouth: Navy Command Ref: 295665

Bristol: Submarine Delivery Agency (SDA) Ref: 295582

Reading: Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) Ref: 295643

Closing date for applications: 23:55 Monday 14th August For further information, contact DNO-DNE-Talent@mod.gov.uk

Categories
Graduate success student success Student success stories

Graduate Success: Kate Wilson

Kate Wilson

Kate studied an MSc in Management at Queen’s University Belfast from 2020-21. She is now based in London working as a Senior Marketing Executive at HeadBox, a digital platform for booking meetings and events.

What course did you study at QUB?

I studied for my MSc in Management in 2020-21.

Did you use your careers service at university?

Yes, I had a couple of sessions over Zoom to help with CV prep. I wasn’t too sure how to best present my skills and experience, so I found these really valuable.

How did you find your current role?

I found it via a job site called Otta that specialises in jobs in tech startups.

Why did you decide to work at HeadBox?

I chose the Consultancy Based Report option for my dissertation as I was keen to get hands-on experience with a real company. Throughout this project, I explored techniques for marketing a social enterprise company (Restorify) in Northern Ireland’s start-up sector, which quite naturally led me to explore marketing roles in a start-up company.

I was initially drawn to apply to HeadBox as it sounded like an interesting role in a fast-growing company where I could gain a lot of experience. I particularly liked how the job description encouraged people to apply if they had no previous marketing experience but felt they would be well-suited for the role.

After a number of interviews, I had a good sense that this was a company I wanted to work for. I had experience working in hospitality and organising several events during my undergrad at university. During COVID, I was impressed by businesses that adapted their models overnight such as local companies that

began delivering or hosting online events. HeadBox was using technology to help different venues adapt their space which drew me in further. I really liked everyone I spoke to during the interview process and felt I’d be a good fit.

Since leaving university, how did you get to this point in your career?

I studied Law for my undergrad at Trinity College Dublin, then spent a few years doing a mix of travelling and working in law firms in Belfast and New York. However, I knew I didn’t really want to continue with law as my career. COVID hit while I was working as a paralegal in New York, so I decided to return home to Belfast.

I applied for the MSc in Management at Queen’s as it was a broad degree in which I could explore different areas of business and find out what I was interested in. I really enjoyed all the modules, but particularly marketing, and learned a lot from the Consultancy Based Report. I accepted my job at HeadBox in October 2021 and worked remotely from Belfast for a few months before moving to London, and have been here since.

What is it like working for a start-up company?

I think having direct access to senior-level colleagues such as your COO and CEO is a fantastic experience for anyone at any level. It really embraces the human side of a company that you don’t get at some larger places. The high-energy, fast-paced and forward-thinking environment is exciting and I found it really easy to get used to. The flexibility and desire to succeed in the business is engaging and exciting to be a part of! It will bring out your innovative and creative side and it’s a great opportunity to rise to any challenges.

What advice would you give to students looking to work for a startup?

Think about what industries spark your interest. Is it fintech, sports, fashion? There are lots of cool companies that are disrupting traditional industries and passion goes a long way in start-ups. Once you’re in, get stuck in and learn as

much as you can. I would recommend being proactive, taking online courses and going to networking events. Ask plenty of questions.

With any job, not just a startup, you get out what you put in. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and throw yourself into the role.

What kind of roles do you see available in the startup industry?

The great thing about working in a start-up is the sheer breadth of roles available. At HeadBox we do pretty much everything in-house, which means that the office is a melting pot of product designers, sales executives, accountants, marketers and, of course, event professionals. The diversity of roles rewards so many different university degrees, and gives you the chance to learn from people who may have studied something totally different from you.

Have any questions? Get in touch with Kate here!

Categories
Career planning Clubs and Societies community work Confidence Networking

Networking is Not as Scary as it Sounds!

Does the idea of reaching out to strangers and making connections make you nervous? Well, fear not! Networking is not as scary as it sounds, especially when you’re a student at Queen’s University Belfast. In fact, it can be an exciting and rewarding experience that can shape your future in more ways than you can imagine. Building a strong support network during your time at university is essential, and here are ten different ways you can do it:

  1. Join clubs and societies related to your interests or academic field: Queen’s offers a wide range of clubs and societies catering to various interests and academic disciplines. By joining these groups, you’ll not only meet like-minded individuals but also have the opportunity to connect with individuals who share your passion. Whether you’re into sports, arts, or academics, there’s a club or society for you.

2. Attend networking events and career fairs on campus: Universities often host networking events and career fairs where you can interact with professionals from different industries. These events are an excellent opportunity to expand your professional circle, gain insights into potential career paths, and even secure internships or job opportunities. Don’t miss out on these valuable occasions!

3. Participate in student government or leadership positions: Getting involved in student government or taking up leadership positions within student organizations is a fantastic way to network. These roles provide you with the chance to work closely with faculty members, administrators, and other student leaders. Not only will you enhance your leadership skills, but you’ll also forge connections that can help you throughout your academic and professional journey.

4. Engage in community service or volunteer work: Volunteering is a win-win situation. By giving back to the community, you not only make a positive impact but also open doors for networking. Many organizations and charities actively seek volunteers, and through these experiences, you can meet individuals who share your commitment to making a difference. Plus, volunteering looks great on your resume!

5. Form study groups with classmates to share knowledge and support each other: Studying can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Forming study groups with your classmates not only allows you to share knowledge and resources but also fosters a support system. These study groups can turn into lifelong friendships and professional connections, as you’ll be navigating your academic journey together.

6. Utilise online platforms and social media to connect with like-minded individuals: In this digital age, networking has become more accessible than ever. Leverage online platforms and social media to connect with individuals who share your interests or career aspirations. Join relevant groups, participate in discussions, and engage with professionals in your desired field. Platforms like LinkedIn can be particularly helpful in building your professional network.

7. Seek out mentors from faculty members or professionals in your desired field: Mentors can play a crucial role in your personal and professional development. Don’t hesitate to approach faculty members or professionals in your desired field to seek guidance and mentorship. These individuals have valuable insights and experiences to share, and their support can be invaluable as you navigate your academic and career choices.

8. Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to expand your knowledge and meet new people: Queen’s often host a range of seminars, workshops, and guest lectures featuring experts in various fields. These events not only provide opportunities to expand your knowledge but also allow you to meet new people who share your interests. Engaging in conversations with speakers and fellow attendees can help you build connections and gain new perspectives.

9. Join professional associations or student chapters of industry-related organisations: Professional associations and student chapters of industry-related organisations are excellent resources for networking. These groups often host events, conferences, and workshops specifically tailored to your field of interest. By becoming a member, you’ll gain access to a network of professionals and fellow students who can offer guidance, mentorship, and potential career opportunities.

10. Attend alumni events and connect with graduates who can offer advice and support: Alumni events provide a unique opportunity to connect with graduates who have already ventured into the professional world. These individuals have firsthand experience and can offer valuable advice and support. Attending alumni events and engaging with alumni networks can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and valuable connections.

Remember, networking is not about approaching people with an agenda or solely for personal gain. It’s about building genuine relationships, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other. The connections you make during your time at Queen’s can have a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. So, don’t let the word “networking” intimidate you. Embrace the opportunities available to you, step out of your comfort zone, and watch your support network flourish!

Find out more about networking here.

Categories
advice Career Options Career planning Graduate jobs

10 Ways to Explore Flexible and Non-Linear Career Options

Are you open to exploring flexible and non-linear career options beyond your field of study? Queen’s University Belfast’s Careers Team is here to help you navigate the world of possibilities. We have compiled a list of ten effective strategies to expand your horizons and discover alternative career paths. Let’s dive in!

  1. Attend Career Fairs: University career fairs are treasure troves of opportunities. They bring together employers from various industries, allowing you to explore a diverse range of companies and job roles. Take the chance to connect with professionals outside your field of study and discover new possibilities.

2. Request Informational Interviews: Informational interviews are invaluable for gaining insights into alternative career paths. Reach out to professionals working in industries that interest you and request a chat. Learn about the skills, experiences, and day-to-day realities of different roles. This firsthand knowledge can broaden your perspective.

3. Engage in Networking Events: Networking is key to expanding your career options. Attend both in-person and online networking events to connect with professionals from diverse fields. Building a diverse network enables you to learn about different career paths and opens doors to opportunities beyond your immediate knowledge base.

4. Pursue Internships and Part-Time Work: Don’t limit yourself to your field of study. Explore internships and part-time jobs in different industries. This hands-on experience exposes you to new fields and roles, helping you discover what you enjoy and excel at, even if it’s unrelated to your degree.

5. Utilise Online Resources and Job Platforms: Online platforms like LinkedIn and MyFuture are treasure troves of job postings across various sectors. MyFuture, specifically tailored for Queen’s students, allows you to search for entry-level positions or roles open to graduates from any discipline. Explore the wide range of possibilities available to you.

6. Engage in Volunteer Work: Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain exposure to diverse experiences and organizations. Explore different sectors, work with people from various backgrounds, and develop transferable skills applicable to multiple industries. Volunteer work can be a gateway to unexpected career paths.

7. Seek Career Consultations: Take advantage of Queen’s 1-2-1 Careers Consultation service. These consultations provide personalized guidance and support tailored to your interests and strengths. Tap into this valuable resource to explore different career paths and connect with relevant opportunities.

8. Join Professional Associations and Clubs: Many professional associations and clubs welcome student members. By joining these organizations, you gain access to industry-specific events, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities. This exposure enables you to explore careers beyond your degree discipline and build a strong professional network.

9. Participate in Careers Events and Programs: Broaden your skill set and increase your versatility in the job market by participating in career events and programs. Queen’s University Belfast offers a wide range of in-person and online programs in diverse fields. These programs allow you to explore new career options and gain valuable experience.

10. Conduct Informational Interviews with Alumni: Tap into the power of Queen’s alumni network. Reach out to alumni who have pursued unconventional career paths and ask for informational interviews. Alumni can provide valuable insights, advice, and mentorship from their successful non-linear career trajectories.

Embrace the world of possibilities beyond your field of study. By exploring flexible and non-linear career options, you can find fulfilling paths that align with your passions and strengths. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities available at Queen’s University Belfast, and remember, your career journey is unique—forge your path with confidence!

Find more careers advice 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
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