Navigating the UK Job Market: How to expand your chances of employment
Professor Ruth Valentine
For International students, navigating the UK Job Market can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, especially due to the unfamiliar intricacies of the market. It is therefore crucial for students to be equipped with the right strategic tools to maximize their employability and position themselves effectively in this competitive landscape.
Choosing coursework with Strong Industry Connections: The cornerstone of a student's professional path is the degree program they opt for. Many UK universities offer study programs that have strong industry links. By opting for these programs, students can network with employers and gain access to industry projects, internships, and guest lectures. For instance, Newcastle University provides students with practical experience that accurately reflects the needs of the labour market through industry-integrated modules and placements.
Proactive Career Planning: Although recent recommendations under the UK's Graduate Route suggest reducing the post-study work period to 18 months for most international graduates (with PhD holders still eligible for three years), there still remains a significant opportunity to build a successful career in the UK, India or internationally. The key lies in early and strategic planning, ideally beginning in the final year of study for bachelor's degrees and at the beginning of a master's degree. By actively engaging with career services, participating in employer events, and leveraging alumni networks, students can position themselves strongly to secure relevant employment within the available timeframe. With a focused and proactive approach, it's entirely possible to make the most of the post-study experience and establish a competitive edge for the global job market.
Utilising University Career Services: Most universities in the UK are equipped with a dedicated career service team that provides invaluable resources and guidance. These Careers Service teams offer training on creating a LinkedIn profile, interview techniques, and CV writing and frequently facilitate career fairs, employer meetups, and sector-specific events. This enables students the opportunity to increase their chances of being noticed by recruiters, stay current with hiring trends, and create a solid foundation for their job applications.
Gaining Industry-Relevant Work Experience: Employers in the UK value practical experience highly. Whether it's through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, gaining experience during studies can significantly enhance a student's employability. Many undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs at Newcastle University also include options for placement years or summer internships, which provide students with practical, industry-ready skills in their field of study. For international students, part-time work in the UK (up to 20 hours per week during term time) can also help build a local work history, which can boost their attractiveness to prospective employers.
Developing Soft Skills: In addition to academic credentials and professional experience, companies in the UK look for graduates with strong soft skills. These consist of leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. Many UK universities use group projects, presentations, and extracurricular activities to incorporate the development of soft skills into their curricula. Students can also develop these vital abilities by volunteering, taking on leadership responsibilities, or actively participating in societies.
Tailoring Job Applications: Employers receive a lot of applications, and producing generic resumes and cover letters is one of the most frequent errors students make. Students should customize each application to the particular position and business. Investigating the company, learning about its principles and objectives, and matching the student's experiences to what the organization is seeking.
Networking Strategically: One of the best strategies to improve a student's chances of finding work is to network advantageously. Many employment openings in the UK are filled by personal contacts, references, or recommendations. To grow their professional network, students are advised to go to industry conferences, alumni gatherings, and career fairs hosted by their university. Newcastle University also regularly organizes networking events that provide students the chance to meet alumni and professionals in the field who may be able to provide guidance, mentorship, or even employment leads.
Staying Informed about Visa Regulations: Understanding the UK's visa procedures is essential for international students looking to find work. Students who have earned a degree in the UK are eligible to stay for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to look for work under the UK government's Graduate Visa program. The move can go more smoothly if students keep up with the visa requirements and make sure that their visa status coincides with the deadlines for job applications. The International Student Support team at most universities assists with visa applications and post-graduation job opportunities.
Choosing a Supportive Institution: In light of recent policy recommendations, it's also more important than ever for international students to choose universities that offer not only academic excellence but also comprehensive career and visa support. At Newcastle, we have curated strong industry partnerships, ethical recruitment practices, and a commitment to the Agent Quality Framework (AQF). These elements ensure that students are not only compliant with visa requirements but also well-positioned to transition smoothly into the workplace. This empowers students with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed – both in the UK and globally.
Leveraging Alumni Networks: For students and recent graduates, a university's global alumni network might be a very useful resource. Alumni frequently offer mentorship, disclose job openings, and offer industry insights. Students can access a multitude of information and opportunities by making connections with alumni via university-sponsored events or online resources like LinkedIn.
Preparing for Psychometric Tests: Psychometric tests are used by many UK firms during the hiring process. These tests are designed to evaluate a student's personality, cognitive skills, and suitability for the position. Students can gain a competitive advantage by studying for these exams in advance through workshops and online tools.
Demonstrating Adaptability, Agility, and a Global Mindset: Graduates with the ability to work in varied teams and adjust to shifting environments are highly valued in the UK employment market. Students stand out by showcasing their cross-cultural collaboration skills, situational flexibility, and willingness to take on difficulties. A University's focus on multiculturalism and global citizenship also gives students lots of chances to interact with people from other cultures, equipping them for success in global businesses.
With carefully planned strategies it is easy to get work opportunities in the UK after graduation. Students should look at universities dedicated to assisting students in developing the networks, expertise, and abilities required to be successful in the UK labour market. Students also improve their employability and raise their chances of landing a job in the UK by picking the appropriate degree, accumulating relevant work experience, making use of university resources, and developing solid professional relationships.
(The author is Pro-Vice Chancellor, Education, Newcastle University)
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
India Today
3 hours ago
- India Today
LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman says AI job fears are legitimate, but Gen Z grads have one advantage
If you're young, job-hunting, and fluent in AI, Reid Hoffman thinks you've got a secret weapon. LinkedIn cofounder Reid Hoffman offered some upbeat advice to students worried about the rise of artificial intelligence in the job market. In a recent video posted on his YouTube channel, Hoffman urged young job-seekers to turn their AI know-how into a major selling point when applying for roles. He said that Gen Z is the generation of AI, and this will make this generation "enormously attractive."advertisementIn the recently posted video, Hoffman was answering questions submitted by college students who voiced growing concerns over whether AI could wipe out large numbers of jobs. While acknowledging that the technology's impact is 'a legitimate worry,' Hoffman argued that younger workers may actually have a built-in advantage over older generations who are still catching agreed that AI is transforming the workspace, entry-level work, and employers' confusion, but it is also allowing them to showcase their unique capabilities. The optimism from Hoffman comes at a time when the broader tech world remains sharply divided over AI's long-term effect on employment. Dario Amodei, CEO of AI firm Anthropic, recently painted a much darker picture. In a conversation with Axios, Amodei warned that AI could eliminate half of all entry-level office jobs and send unemployment soaring to 20 per cent within just five years. (Read the full story here). 'Most of them are unaware that this is about to happen,' Amodei cautioned. 'It sounds crazy, and people just don't believe it.'advertisementHowever, others in the tech industry strongly disagree with Amodei's bleak forecast. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, speaking at VivaTech 2025 in Paris this week, dismissed the warning outright. 'I pretty much disagree with almost everything he says,' Huang told reporters. 'He thinks AI is so scary, but only they should do it,' he added. Similar to Hoffman, Huang admitted that AI would certainly transform work but argued that it will also open new doors and create fresh industries. 'Do I think AI will change jobs? It will change everyone's, it's changed mine,' he AI is not your friend...A few weeks ago, Hoffman made headlines for claiming that if you think AI is your friend, then you are wrong. He explained that friendship goes beyond simply having someone to talk to or listen. In his words, 'Friendship is a two-directional relationship.' He explained that a genuine friend is someone who not only offers support but also expects it in return — a bond where both individuals help each other grow and improve. 'It's not only, 'Are you there for me?', but I am here for you,' he added. According to Hoffman, this kind of mutual connection is something AI, regardless of how advanced it may become, will never be able to replicate. This discussion comes as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg champions the use of AI companions as a way to combat loneliness. Highlighting that many Americans have fewer than three close friends, Zuckerberg suggested that AI could help bridge that social gap. These AI companions are already being integrated into platforms such as Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, and even smart glasses. However, Hoffman remains critical of this approach, arguing that it risks blurring people's understanding of true friendship. He pointed out that some AI tools, like the Pi chatbot developed by Inflection AI, handle this more responsibly by making it clear to users that they serve as companions — not substitutes for real friends.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
'They copy-pasted from AI': Tech company offers Rs 20 lakh, can't find a single techie who understands code
A technology firm recently launched a hiring campaign for a well-compensated entry-level position offering a handsome Rs 20 lakh per annum. However, despite conducting a staggering 450 interviews, the company failed to find a single candidate suitable for the role. The recruitment team turned to the Developers India subreddit to share their ordeal, hoping to shed light on the complexities of hiring in the AI era. The company had posted job listings on LinkedIn for junior-level frontend and backend developers, as well as QA roles. The salary range—up to Rs 20 lakh—attracted a wave of over 12,000 applications. From the outset, the hiring team filtered out nearly 10,000 applicants, citing reasons such as poorly tailored resumes and a lack of relevant technical abilities. According to them, the early elimination was not about being overly selective but about saving both their own time and the applicants' from fruitless interview rounds. Those who did make it to the interviews were tested on fundamental programming principles as well as standard data structures and algorithms topics like trees, heaps, linked lists, and graph traversal methods such as breadth-first search and depth-first search. Interestingly, the firm even permitted the use of tools like ChatGPT during assessments to simulate a real-world working environment. However, this modern approach backfired. While candidates were quick to churn out working solutions—often copied directly from AI—the problems began when interviewers asked for an explanation. Most were unable to describe what their own code was doing or provide details about its time and space complexity. This led to the realization that many candidates were simply copying and pasting without comprehending the logic behind the code—a phenomenon the recruiter described as "vibe coding." This troubling pattern prompted the company to reflect on its own methods. Was the interview process too rigid or flawed? Or was it indicative of a larger issue where aspiring developers rely too heavily on AI tools, skipping the foundational learning necessary to become competent programmers? The Reddit community didn't hold back in its response. Some users questioned the company's recruitment practices, pointing out that spending 450 hours on interviews without hiring a single person suggested deeper internal problems. One user criticized the process as inefficient and misguided, arguing that the HR team might be more at fault than the candidates themselves. Another suggested that if so many interviews yield zero hires, it could be a sign that the hiring strategy—and not the talent pool—is broken.
Indian Express
21 hours ago
- Indian Express
Navigating the UK Job Market: How to expand your chances of employment
Professor Ruth Valentine For International students, navigating the UK Job Market can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, especially due to the unfamiliar intricacies of the market. It is therefore crucial for students to be equipped with the right strategic tools to maximize their employability and position themselves effectively in this competitive landscape. Choosing coursework with Strong Industry Connections: The cornerstone of a student's professional path is the degree program they opt for. Many UK universities offer study programs that have strong industry links. By opting for these programs, students can network with employers and gain access to industry projects, internships, and guest lectures. For instance, Newcastle University provides students with practical experience that accurately reflects the needs of the labour market through industry-integrated modules and placements. Proactive Career Planning: Although recent recommendations under the UK's Graduate Route suggest reducing the post-study work period to 18 months for most international graduates (with PhD holders still eligible for three years), there still remains a significant opportunity to build a successful career in the UK, India or internationally. The key lies in early and strategic planning, ideally beginning in the final year of study for bachelor's degrees and at the beginning of a master's degree. By actively engaging with career services, participating in employer events, and leveraging alumni networks, students can position themselves strongly to secure relevant employment within the available timeframe. With a focused and proactive approach, it's entirely possible to make the most of the post-study experience and establish a competitive edge for the global job market. Utilising University Career Services: Most universities in the UK are equipped with a dedicated career service team that provides invaluable resources and guidance. These Careers Service teams offer training on creating a LinkedIn profile, interview techniques, and CV writing and frequently facilitate career fairs, employer meetups, and sector-specific events. This enables students the opportunity to increase their chances of being noticed by recruiters, stay current with hiring trends, and create a solid foundation for their job applications. Gaining Industry-Relevant Work Experience: Employers in the UK value practical experience highly. Whether it's through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, gaining experience during studies can significantly enhance a student's employability. Many undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs at Newcastle University also include options for placement years or summer internships, which provide students with practical, industry-ready skills in their field of study. For international students, part-time work in the UK (up to 20 hours per week during term time) can also help build a local work history, which can boost their attractiveness to prospective employers. Developing Soft Skills: In addition to academic credentials and professional experience, companies in the UK look for graduates with strong soft skills. These consist of leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills. Many UK universities use group projects, presentations, and extracurricular activities to incorporate the development of soft skills into their curricula. Students can also develop these vital abilities by volunteering, taking on leadership responsibilities, or actively participating in societies. Tailoring Job Applications: Employers receive a lot of applications, and producing generic resumes and cover letters is one of the most frequent errors students make. Students should customize each application to the particular position and business. Investigating the company, learning about its principles and objectives, and matching the student's experiences to what the organization is seeking. Networking Strategically: One of the best strategies to improve a student's chances of finding work is to network advantageously. Many employment openings in the UK are filled by personal contacts, references, or recommendations. To grow their professional network, students are advised to go to industry conferences, alumni gatherings, and career fairs hosted by their university. Newcastle University also regularly organizes networking events that provide students the chance to meet alumni and professionals in the field who may be able to provide guidance, mentorship, or even employment leads. Staying Informed about Visa Regulations: Understanding the UK's visa procedures is essential for international students looking to find work. Students who have earned a degree in the UK are eligible to stay for two years (or three years for PhD graduates) to look for work under the UK government's Graduate Visa program. The move can go more smoothly if students keep up with the visa requirements and make sure that their visa status coincides with the deadlines for job applications. The International Student Support team at most universities assists with visa applications and post-graduation job opportunities. Choosing a Supportive Institution: In light of recent policy recommendations, it's also more important than ever for international students to choose universities that offer not only academic excellence but also comprehensive career and visa support. At Newcastle, we have curated strong industry partnerships, ethical recruitment practices, and a commitment to the Agent Quality Framework (AQF). These elements ensure that students are not only compliant with visa requirements but also well-positioned to transition smoothly into the workplace. This empowers students with the skills, confidence, and connections needed to succeed – both in the UK and globally. Leveraging Alumni Networks: For students and recent graduates, a university's global alumni network might be a very useful resource. Alumni frequently offer mentorship, disclose job openings, and offer industry insights. Students can access a multitude of information and opportunities by making connections with alumni via university-sponsored events or online resources like LinkedIn. Preparing for Psychometric Tests: Psychometric tests are used by many UK firms during the hiring process. These tests are designed to evaluate a student's personality, cognitive skills, and suitability for the position. Students can gain a competitive advantage by studying for these exams in advance through workshops and online tools. Demonstrating Adaptability, Agility, and a Global Mindset: Graduates with the ability to work in varied teams and adjust to shifting environments are highly valued in the UK employment market. Students stand out by showcasing their cross-cultural collaboration skills, situational flexibility, and willingness to take on difficulties. A University's focus on multiculturalism and global citizenship also gives students lots of chances to interact with people from other cultures, equipping them for success in global businesses. With carefully planned strategies it is easy to get work opportunities in the UK after graduation. Students should look at universities dedicated to assisting students in developing the networks, expertise, and abilities required to be successful in the UK labour market. Students also improve their employability and raise their chances of landing a job in the UK by picking the appropriate degree, accumulating relevant work experience, making use of university resources, and developing solid professional relationships. (The author is Pro-Vice Chancellor, Education, Newcastle University)
