Academic excellence for business and the professions
Employability Skills Programme Tuesdays and Wednesdays 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
Sponsored by
Brought to you by the Careers Service www.city.ac.uk/careers www.city.ac.uk
We are delighted to invite you to the 2017 Employability Skills Programme. Employability Skills Tuesdays and Wednesdays will prepare you to make the transition from education to work, exploring all aspects of the selection and recruitment process. These sessions will cover the skills that are most valued by recruiters, how you can reflect on these and how to articulate your experiences clearly when talking to employers. Students that attend the preparatory session, attend eight of the sixteen main sessions and submit a reflective review will receive a certificate. The following sessions are scheduled to take place during the autumn term:
Preparation Session with The Institute of Student Employers 3rd October, 1 to 2pm
Part 9 Developing your commercial awareness with PwC 7th November, 6 to 7pm
Part 1 Succeeding with your online application with KPMG 10th October, 1 to 2pm
Part 10 Networking techniques to last a lifetime with Unite the Union 8th November, 1 to 2pm
Part 2 Personal career branding - what makes you unique with BESTSELLER 10th October, 6 to 7pm
Part 11 Impressive group work behaviours in assessment centres with IBM 6th February, 1 to 2pm
Part 3 Knowing how your skills are applicable to the working world with FDM 17th October, 1 to 2pm
Part 11 Impressive group work behaviours in assessment centres with Bond Dickinson 6th February, 6 to 7pm
Part 4 What makes a successful telephone interview with Santander 17th October, 6 to 7pm
Part 12 Presenting to impress in group assessment centres with CIMA 13th February, 1 to 2pm
Part 5 What makes a great video interview with Grant Thornton 24th October, 1 to 2pm
Part 12 Presenting to impress in group assessment centres with Heathrow Airport 13th February, 6 to 7pm
Part 6 Demonstrating your competency in interviews with Capco 24th October, 6 to 7pm
Part 13 How to develop and demonstrate leadership skills with Amazon 20th February, 1 to 2pm
Part 7 Knowing where your strengths lie with EY 31st October, 1 to 2pm
Part 13 How to develop and demonstrate leadership skills with Teach First 20th February, 6 to 7pm
Part 8 Improving your psychometric test scores with BDO 31st October, 6 to 7pm
Part 14 How to succeed in the job market with Bloomberg 27th February, 1 to 2pm Part 14 How to succeed in the job market with Blackwell Global Investments 27th February, 6 to 7pm
Be professional, be prepared. You have to register online to attend these sessions through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
Welcome from
Sponsors of the 2017/18 Employability Skills Programme You have the academics, you have joined a society and you are actively engaged in extracurricular activities, but the graduate market place is fiercely competitive, so what else can you do to stand out? Employability skills will be your edge. Changes in the business environment prompted by globalisation, technological change, increased competition and client and customer demand have led to employers increasingly seeking out a set of base level behavioural or soft skills in addition to the technical skills required for their business. Companies are looking for more than great academics, they want to know that you have the skills for the job, and you have to able to demonstrate these through the interview and assessment process. At Bloomberg we look for the best talent for our business, regardless of background or university attended. Employability skills are really important for us as they ensure that you can hit the ground running and integrate quickly into our company. Bloomberg harnesses the power of information for people who want to change the world. Whether they are in business, finance, government, policy or philanthropy, we help our clients turn data into insights so they can cut through complexity to solve challenges great and small. At Bloomberg, we believe a rich mix of people and points of view is essential to innovation. Our business runs on ideas. But ideas do not just happen. They come from smart people with opinions. If you want to learn more about the company and the career opportunities available, please visit bloomberg.com/careers. We wish you the best of luck for your studies and securing your ideal career.
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What are employability skills? Employers look for well-rounded applicants who have a strong academic background and also possess a range of core work competencies such as team working, commercial awareness and presentation skills. These key transferable skills are increasingly becoming as important to employers as educational achievement. The table on the next page summarises some of the skills that are most valued by employers. Take a moment to think about a situation where you have demonstrated these skills. This could be in your study, work or cocurricular activity (for example voluntary or community work and sport). We have put some prompts in this column to help you. Think about how each example helps you stand out from other candidates who might be applying for the same job.
To do: • Complete the table on the following page so that you can identify your strengths and areas for improvement. • Read each company entry in this booklet and think about the tips these companies give you for succeeding in the selection and recruitment process. • Sign up for and attend each of the skills sessions. • Develop an action plan. What skills do you need to develop and how are you going to do this?
Research your next career move and meet top recruiters on campus by attending employer-led events. Register now through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
Employability skills
What is this?
Recent example of when you have demonstrated this skill
Communication • Listening • Written • Verbal
The ability to write, listen and speak effectively and clearly to get your point across to a range of audiences.
e.g. Dealing with people; writing case studies and speeches
Commercial awareness
The ability to understand your chosen industry and its broader context
e.g. Market analysis; research
Teamwork
The ability to work with others in a professional manner while collaborating to achieve a common goal.
e.g. Agreeing on timelines; contributing to discussions; dividing tasks
Analytical and critical thinking
The ability to assess a situation, seek multiple perspectives, gather more information if necessary and identify the key issues that need to be addressed.
e.g. Questionnaires; evaluations
Leadership
The ability to manage co-workers and motivate others to participate and work to the best of their capabilities.
e.g. Managing a project; building trust and respect; setting guidelines
Planning and organising
The ability to manage multiple assignments and tasks within a deadline, set priorities and delegate tasks when appropriate.
e.g. Developing timetables; setting deadlines; prioritising
Initiative
The ability to initiate or do something without being asked to by your manager or supervisor.
e.g. Implementing a new idea; improving something that is already in place
Problem solving and decision making
The ability to manage conflict, consider all aspects of a problem and think about possible solutions before reacting.
e.g. Listing pros and cons; seeking advice
Flexibility and adaptability
The ability to adapt calmly to changing conditions and work assignments.
e.g. Covering for someone at work who is ill; accepting new roles
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It’s never too early to start thinking about your career – read on to find out why it is important to engage early... “ The job market is highly competitive. Early engagement gives you the time to understand what employers want and areas you need to develop to meet these needs in advance of making your applications and finding out when it is too late. Many first year programmes are as rigorous as graduate programme recruitment processes so you have to be ready.” CIMA “ Getting your name out there is a big thing. You might not be looking at your career now or even know what you want to do, but completing work experience, internships and overall gaining visibility with clients is vitally important. Most companies engage in long-term recruitment and are always more willing to take someone onto a graduate program who has already gained exposure to the company and has a track record of success with them.” Capco “ The graduate recruitment marketplace is more competitive than ever before. Nowadays it is imperative that students engage with employers early. This allows students to discover what they enjoy and what they are good at, whilst building up a CV that demonstrates the competencies they possess.” Bloomberg “ In your first year it may feel like second and final year are in the far distant future but they will creep up on you. Most companies offer their places on a rolling basis with a first-come, first-served approach and the job market is competitive. It is crucial that you start talking to employers and doing your research well in advance of their deadlines to ensure you make a decision that is right for you.” IBM “ Engaging with employers at an early stage will strengthen your employability. It is the chance for you to learn valuable skills that will be carried through to employment. Employers can offer industry insight on subjects such as salary averages, employer expectations and advice on skills and experience needed for functional roles. Early engagement will give you an advantage when it comes to choosing a career path and applying for the right role.” BESTSELLER
Top tips from employers on techniques to increase your employability skills. “ Employers are looking for graduates with motivation, resilience and good communication skills so throw yourself into all available opportunities, work experience and opportunities that will help you become a versatile team worker.” FDM “ Do your research. Identify what skills the career you want to go into looks for and develop in these areas. Make the most of all of the great sessions your careers service offer as these sessions will give you the key requirements to succeed in the job market, it is all about understanding the rules of the recruitment game.” CIMA “ Get involved in as much outside of academia as possible. Individuals who get involved in various societies, sports clubs and initiatives gain so much relevant skills to the business world. Not only is this valued by employers, but the greater range of experiences it gives you will provide all the more examples to use in your competency interviews.” Capco “ Do something noteworthy which is memorable or thought-provoking, it is an ice breaker and shows personality.” Blackwell Global Investments “ Use your Careers Service, there are infinite resources openly there for you to use. If you are trying to complete an application form, get a Careers Consultant to check it for you. If you a have a mock assessment centre coming up, go and seek advice. If you are preparing for an interview, have a practice at the Careers Service first. It is far more effective to spend longer on one application than it is to try to fire out several at once. It is also important that you find the time to take part in extracurricular activities no matter what form they are in. Are you the Head of the Quidditch team? Fantastic! Are you working backstage in the drama department? Awesome! These are the kind of things that will differentiate you from other candidates and give you the soft skills we desire.” IBM
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3rd October 2017 Preparation Session for the Employability Skills Programme 1 – 2pm
Session outline:
An impressive candidate is:
What skills do employers look for in students? How do companies choose their hires? How can students maximise their chances of getting a good job offer? Samuel Gordon, Research Analyst at the Institute of Student Employers (ISE), formerly known as the Association of Graduate Recruiters (AGR), has comprehensive insight on employer activity across the UK and across 17 sectors. He will share key employer perspectives and trends, including the supply and demand for opportunities available, and students will have the chance to discuss how they can respond to these trends.
Someone with an in-depth understanding of the business they are applying to as well as how their own strengths enable them to contribute. Someone who can clearly state why they have the right mix of skills, knowledge and attributes for that business.
What will you get out of the session? You will gain an understanding of how to prepare for selection processes and which skills to develop in preparation for work.
The shortfall in skills that employers are looking for: Employers tell ISE that students with resilience are the most successful in the long run. There are large mismatches in what skills employers want versus what students have: more than 80 per cent of graduates lack the skills of managing up, dealing with conflict, negotiating and influencing. The next biggest skills gaps – and the ones which surprise employers the most when they occur – are commercial awareness, business communication and self-awareness.
ISE stands out from other organisations because: We are a national, employer-led organisation who regularly interacts with a wide range of recruiters, suppliers and universities and actively uses our research to drive change in the industry. ISE employer members recruit into all UK regions, represent all sizes of firm, and range from those who recruit less than 15 graduates up to those which recruit over 1000 a year, so the ISE has an unparalleled range of insight.
Opportunities at ISE: ISE does not recruit graduates directly, but ISE members hire over 20,000 graduates, 10,000 apprentices, 6,000 interns and 2,000 industrial placements a year.
Find out more: www.agr.org.uk
How to develop those vital skills: Getting part-time work experience is a great way to develop a number of employability skills at once. Trying new activities and challenging yourself is great as well as it will make you better at learning from failure, and taking positions of responsibility in teams provides useful exposure to working with people from different backgrounds.
Remember To receive your certificate at the end of the programme, you have to attend this preparatory session.
10th October 2017 Part 1. Succeeding with your online application 1 – 2pm
Session outline: Tailoring your job applications is one of the most important first steps you will make when applying for internships, placements and graduate programmes. Companies receive hundreds of applications, so it is critical that you can differentiate yourself from the crowd. This will be an informal session, including interactive discussions and plenty of time for questions, which will cover hints and tips on how you can succeed in KPMG’s application process.
What will you get out of the session? An understanding of the resources you can use in order to prepare, what recruiters often look for and the common pitfalls.
The most common mistakes candidates make on their online applications are: Not researching the company properly, not differentiating the company from its competitors and using generic terminology.
Three tips for writing winning online applications: 1. Give sufficient time and attention to your online application form 2. Behavioural capabilities are important: get to know what the company is looking for and give examples of when you may have demonstrated them 3. Research the business thoroughly. You should display a real passion for the role, business area and location you’ve applied to.
KPMG stands out from other organisations because: KPMG in the UK is part of a global network of firms that offers audit, tax, consulting and deal advisory services. Through the talent of over 14,000 colleagues, we bring our imagination and insight to our clients’ most critical challenges. With offices across the UK, we work with everyone from small start-ups and individuals to major multinationals, in virtually every industry imaginable. Our work is often complex, yet our vision is simple: to be the clear choice in professional services – for our clients, for our people and for the communities we work in.
Opportunities at KMPG: We offer a number of opportunities including vacation programmes, placements, first year and graduate opportunities.
Application method and deadlines: KPMG recruits on a rolling basis, and some routes fill faster than others, so we would encourage you to apply as early as possible. Typically we open for applications every year around August time and KPMG’s Launch Pad recruitment events usually take place between October and December. Our application process is designed to get the best from all kinds of people. We have made it as straightforward as possible. But we recommend taking some time to find out what we are looking for, and what you can expect from us. On our website you can also find tips on everything from completing your application form, to interview technique.
An impressive candidate is: Specific, motivated, informed and enthusiastic.
Find out more: www.kpmgcareers.co.uk
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10th October 2017 Part 2. Personal career branding – what makes you unique 6 – 7pm
Session outline:
Three tips on developing your personal brand:
BESTSELLER are experts in the field of brand launches, with more than 24 unique fashion brands. We will be sharing our specialist knowledge, putting it into context for you to develop your own unique career profile when applying for jobs.
1. Profile: Consider your strengths, unique attributes, skills and qualifications. Plan your identity by writing the above down to form the basis of your own personal brand.
• Introduction to BESTSELLER and our brands • Learn what personal career branding is and why it is important • Advice on how to define your USP’s and identity • The best tools and methods to build your personal profile and unique message • Engaging with your target audience
2. Platform: Think about how you want to share your knowledge and experience and introduce yourself to potential employers. Invest time into creating your CV and a personalised covering letter. 3. People: Find the roles that are right for you and tailor your application so that you stand out. Time invested into ensuring a quality application is what will make your personal brand stand out.
• Examples from our guest speakers on what it takes to build a brand.
An impressive candidate is:
What will you get out of the session?
BESTSELLER stands out from other organisations because:
The session will educate you on how to stand out in the working world, particularly focusing on the application process. You will learn from branding experts at BESTSELLER what it means to build a personalised unique brand in the context of students building their own unique personal career brand. The students will take away their USP’s and a stronger understanding on how to market themselves as a graduate.
The most common mistakes candidates make when developing their personal brand are: As a student, you may feel compelled to apply for nearly all graduate opportunities but how relevant are they to you? Are you applying for a position that you are truly passionate and enthusiastic about? Because we as employers want to feel the same excitement when we recruit graduates for roles in our business. Your personal brand should represent you and what makes you special, you need to make sure you define your personal brand to make sure you apply for the right company and position.
Honest, humble, hard-working, friendly and enthusiastic.
BESTSELLER is a family-owned fashion house, specialising in both retail and wholesale distribution. We cater for all supplying affordable fashion to men, women and children. What makes BESTSELLER unique is the culture. We make BESTSELLER’s 10 Basic Principles come alive. They define our values and are reflected in the way we interact with the world around us. We base all relations on trust, respect and honesty. Our basic principles guide our actions and determine how we do business. The feeling of being part of a family unites our organisation across borders, brands and departments.
Opportunities at BESTSELLER: All of our opportunities can be found on our website.
Application method and deadlines: All applications should be made via our Careers page where we regularly update our current vacancies.
Find out more: https://about.bestseller.com/jobs/ jobs-careers
17th October 2017 Part 3. Knowing how your skills are applicable to the working world 1 – 2pm
Session outline: When finishing university it can be difficult to know exactly how the skills you have developed through your degree are applicable to the working world. It can be just as confusing knowing what skills the employers are looking for. Within this session, we will help you understand exactly what skills you have, how to identify them and help you articulate these effectively throughout an application process. To begin the session, students will take part in a strength spotting exercise and we will then move into a group task, helping individuals to identify their own skills and strengths, and how they are relatable to the working world.
What will you get out of the session? Students should gain an understanding of their own skills and strengths, how they can effectively articulate these throughout a recruitment process and grow in their own confidence of their readiness for the working world.
A successful interviewee is: Someone who can identify their own strengths in relation to the role specifically and articulate this confidently and effectively throughout.
An impressive candidate is: Confident, commercially-aware and has a strong personal brand throughout the recruitment process and into the role.
FDM stands out from other organisations because: It offers free award-winning training and fasttracked career opportunities with our world renowned clients.
Opportunities at FDM: A two year graduate programme for graduates from any degree background.
Application method and deadlines: FDM recruit all year round, offering you flexibility on deadlines and start dates.
Find out more: www.fdmgroup.com/uk/apply
The most common mistakes candidates make in skills-based interviews are: • Trying to fit a pre rehearsed answer into a different question • Giving vague and non-specific answers.
Three tips for succeeding at skills-based interviews: 1. Taking time to listen to the question 2. R emain professional but allow your interests and personality to come out 3. Show energy and enthusiasm throughout.
Employer in Residence During the term, employers will be offering one-to-one CV checks to students. Find out more about these sessions and how to register for them on City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students. 10|11
17th October 2017 Part 4. What makes a successful telephone interview? 6 – 7pm
Session outline: Santander will be covering what makes a successful telephone interview, this for us is a good indication when we are speaking to potential candidates to understand why they have applied for the role and their understanding of the bank. We are looking to make this an interactive session with the possibility of role plays. We will be looking specifically at how you prepare for telephone interviews in groups.
What will you get out of the session? Tips on how to build your confidence in preparation for phone interviews, how to prepare for a meeting where you are not face-to-face and overall how to really get the person on the other end engaged with you.
A successful telephone interview is one that:
Impressive telephone interview behaviours include: Really engaging with the conversation and getting your personality across, you have bring passion to make the recruiter speak highly of you.
Santander stands out from other organisations because: As our business grows and improves, the opportunities for our people will do the same. We are committed to supporting and nurturing our people to help them as they deliver their personal best in a culture that knows everyone counts and that they have not gone unnoticed. This year we have been named one of the Top Employers 2017.
Opportunities at Santander: Please visit our website for our latest vacancies and further information.
Leaves the person interviewing you with the feeling you are capable for the role.
The most common mistakes candidates make during a telephone interview are: They are not prepared enough and are trying to cover too much.
Three tips for succeeding in a telephone interview: 1. Always prepare 2. Have no distractions in front of you 3. Speak to the person as if they were in front of you.
Find out more: www.santanderjobs.co.uk
24th October 2017 Part 5. What makes a great video interview? 1 – 2pm
Session outline:
Impressive video interview behaviours:
During this session we will explore what makes a great video interview. You will cover:
Imagine you’re a TV presenter with a really interesting story. That way you can forget that there is not another person there nodding and smiling. Treat your answers as a presentation, this way you can relax into the content and focus on the points you are trying to convey.
• What type of interview to expect • Why companies use video interviews and what is in it for me • Tips and what to look out for. This will be an interactive session, with breakouts for discussion along with viewing and taking part in practice digital interviews.
What will you get out of the session? Students will gain an in-depth insight into digital interviews, what not to do and what leaves assessors with a lasting impression so that when the time comes they can really impress through this media.
A successful video interview is: Engaging and demonstrates the candidates full potential and motivation for the role. Presenting their ideas and experiences in a concise and clear manner.
The most common mistakes candidates make during a video interview:
Grant Thornton stands out from other organisations because: We’ve chosen to set our reputation alongside a bold purpose – by unlocking the potential for growth in our people, clients and our communities we believe we can help shape a vibrant economy where businesses and people can flourish. We’ve embedded this purpose through three areas where we believe we can make the most impact, and have the track record, skills and connectivity to achieve it: • Building trust and integrity in markets • Unlocking sustainable growth in dynamic organisations • Creating environments where businesses and people flourish.
If you make a mistake it can really throw you and sometimes we see students struggle to recover.
Opportunities at Grant Thornton:
Three tips for succeeding at video interviews:
Application method and deadlines:
1. You do not have someone asking you further questions to get to the bottom of your answer so you need to treat it more like a presentation of each answer than a conversation
All our opportunities can be found on our website.
Applications should be made through our website, there is a short online application form to complete. We currently do not have deadlines on our roles but we do encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible before we fill up.
2. Try not to read from notes 3. If you mess up, just keep going. Do not let one question get in the way of answering the next questions well.
Find out more: ukgrantt.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/ TraineeCareersGrantThornton 12|13
24th October 2017 Part 6. Demonstrating your competency in interviews 6 – 7pm
Session outline: Competency interviewing forms a part of almost any graduate program. During this session we will be covering: • What are competency questions • Why do companies ask competency questions • Examples of competency questions and good answers • STAR method preparation and interactive elements.
2. Be prepared to adapt quickly in response to questions that might not fit exactly with the examples you have 3. Be prepared to be probed further on your given answer, most interviewers will dig.
An impressive candidate is someone who: • Has a strong understanding of the business and the sector it operates within
This session will teach the basics and structures needed to excel in competency-based interviewing, paired with a heavy level of interaction and group work.
• Asks good, relevant questions that make the interviewer think. Do not ask for the sake of asking
What will you get out of the session?
• Is engaging and enthusiastic and has a real, honest drive for the company and the role.
By the end of this talk, students will have discovered why companies ask these questions, how to prepare thoroughly and how to excel in response to all manner of competency questions.
• Lets their personality shine. People want to hire people they like
Capco stands out from other organisations because:
A successful interviewee is one that:
• It has a work culture focused on innovation and creating lasting value for our clients and employees
Broad answers with plenty of empty buzzwords are very common. Someone skilled in competencybased interviewing will be able to provide evidence for every point they make. It is not about saying you can do it, it is about proving you can do it.
• There are ongoing learning opportunities to help you acquire new skills or deepen existing expertise • There is a flat, non-hierarchical structure that will enable you to work with senior partners and directly with clients.
The most common mistakes candidates make in competency-based interviews are:
Opportunities at Capco:
• Lack of evidence and using examples that do not relate directly to the position they are applying for • Speaking about ‘we’ rather than ‘I’. • Talking about what you would generally do rather than providing specifics about what you have actually done.
Three tips for succeeding at competency-based interviews:
Capco is growing rapidly and a big part of this success story is our Associate Talent Program. This scheme requires a graduate degree along with at least three months of relevant experience.
Application method and deadlines: There is no specific deadline as Capco normally holds four or five intakes a year. For more information on this visit our Careers Hub and search for the Associate Talent Program.
1. Analyse your history for relevant examples that relate directly to the job description you are interviewing against
Find out more: www.capco.com
31st October 2017 Part 7. Knowing where your strengths lie 1 – 2pm
Session outline: At EY we focus on you as an individual. We use a strengths-based approach to recruit all of our undergraduates and graduates. Assessing potential rather than past performance is at the heart of our selection methodology and as a result, we will no longer screen out candidates based on academics. At the early stages, the strongest candidates will be identified using our new Strengths Portal. This session aims to help you understand the differences in a strengths-based recruitment process, how to identify your own strengths and how to succeed in a strengths-based interview.
What will you get out of the session? Students will learn how to identify their strengths and how to be successful throughout the strengthsbased recruitment process.
EY stands out from other organisations because: • Our employees are approachable and thrive working in a friendly office atmosphere • We operate one of the best flexible working policies • We have a range of interesting and diverse clients.
Opportunities at EY: We have a number of exciting positions for both graduates and undergraduates at EY which can be found on our website.
Application method and deadlines: We have a rolling application process with no deadline.
A successful interviewee is one that: Has prepared fully and has confidence in their own strengths.
Find out more: ukcareers.ey.com/graduates
The most common mistakes candidates make in strength-based interviews are: Going off-topic and talking around a point. Focus on your strength and a related example.
Three tips for succeeding at strengthbased interviews: Prepare your strengths, related examples and relevant questions for the interviewer.
An impressive candidate is: A candidate that knows their strengths and has prepared fully for the specific stage of the application process.
Remember You have to register online to attend these sessions. To secure your place, register through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students. 14|15
31st October 2017 Part 8. Improving your psychometric test scores 6 – 7pm
Session outline: Psychometrics are sophisticated tools designed to measure individual differences in a number of areas such as intelligence, ability, personality and motivation. When used in combination with other information sources they provide a powerful insight into why people make the decisions they make and why they behave in the way they do. Psychometrics also help predict future behaviour and performance and therefore are an instrumental tool in business planning.
BDO stands out from other organisations because: BDO are the leading accountancy and business advisory firm, aimed at mid-market businesses. We work with AIM listed companies, Financial Services, Healthcare, Leisure and Hospitality, Retail, Manufacturing Companies, Growing Technology and Media companies and many more including Not for Profit, Public Sector, Real Estate and Professional Services, both in the UK and internationally.
What will you get out of the session?
Opportunities at BDO:
This session aims to help you understand some of the most common types of psychometric tests which exist and to give you some hints and tips of what to expect, when you are applying to graduate schemes and roles. BDO will also cover why we are using them in our recruitment process.
BDO have exciting opportunities for graduates within our firm across the following business streams: audit, tax, financial services and advisory.
How can you prepare for psychometric tests?
Application forms, online tests, video interviews, assessment day. The recruitment for this is ongoing.
Application method and deadlines:
Practice online on an employability platform.
The most common mistakes candidates make in psychometric tests are: Not reading the question, insufficient question practice, being over confident.
Three tips for improving psychometric tests: 1. Make sure you read the instructions carefully 2. Keep an eye on the time 3. Make sure you practice online.
An impressive candidate is: A candidate who demonstrates strengths that align with our company throughout the process.
Find out more: www.bdograduaterecruitment.co.uk/home
7th November 2017 Part 9. Developing your commercial awareness 6 – 7pm
Session outline: The term commercial awareness is used widely in recruitment but what does it mean? On one level it is the ability to understand what is going on in the business world and even more importantly how this may affect the industry sector for which you are applying. On another level it could be described as what you may have noticed whilst undertaking part-time employment or work experience which can help you understand and explore business issues.
What will you get out of the session? This session will equip you with starting points for developing strong commercial awareness and provide some guidance on how to apply this, both in a selection process and throughout your future career. You will have developed several key transferable skills through various forms of work experience and we will help you recognise and articulate them.
Good commercial awareness is: Come along to the session to find out!
PwC stands out from other organisations because: There are many areas of our business in which you could start your career. Opportunities are at the heart of a career with us and we are proud, based on the opportunity we offer, that students have voted us the number one Graduate Employer in The Times Top 100 Graduate Employers Survey for the last 14 years. While we choose the best people to join us, it might be surprising to learn they are from a wide range of backgrounds and have studied all sorts of degree subjects.
Application method and deadlines: All of our opportunities and deadlines are online. We have a live chat function on the website, in place of an email address for instant answers to all questions.
Find out more: www.pwc.co.uk/careers/student-jobs.html
The most common mistakes candidates make when demonstrating commercial awareness are: Come along to the session to find out.
After attending the skills sessions
Three tips on how to develop and demonstrate commercial awareness:
To build on the understanding you have gained from the Programme, we recommend that you: • Attend Careers Challenges series: to build skills for success in the recruitment and selection process • Sign up for mock assessment sessions: gain valuable experience and feedback in assessment and psychometric testing, to help with you prepare practically and mentally for the selection process. Find out more at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Come along to the session to find out.
An impressive candidate is: Someone who demonstrates the PwC professional attributes and is well researched.
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8th November 2017 Part 10. Networking techniques to last a lifetime 1 – 2pm
Session outline:
An impressive candidate is:
In this session, you will learn how to perfect your personal brand and make a good first impression during networking sessions. This will be an interactive session and will allow you to practice the skills being discussed. Come ready to mix and mingle and ask questions about what you currently find difficult about networking.
Someone who understands that anyone can be a good networker if they know how to go about it. The best networkers are themselves and leave a positive lasting impression.
What will you get out of the session?
Unite is the Union is the largest trade union in the UK and Ireland with around 1.42 million members across 20 different private, public and voluntary sectors including manufacturing, public services, transport, food, finance and construction. It is a democratic and campaigning union which fights back for employees in the workplace, protecting workers’ rights and taking trade unionism out to millions of unorganised workers. It is a union that stands up for equality for all and advances the interests of its members on a political and national level. Unite is also active on a global scale, building ever stronger links with trade unions around the world to confront the challenges of our globalised economy.
You will leave with a better idea of what makes a good networker and the skills you can begin to work on to improve your networking.
A successful networker is: Someone who turns up prepared. They know the type of people in the room, have identified organisations to speak to and have prepared how to share their story and make a lasting impression of who they are quickly and succinctly. They make the most of every opportunity to meet new people and build their network and get stuck in – even if, at first, they do not feel that confident.
The most common networking mistakes are: • Not coming across as authentic – being a good networker is about being yourself as much as demonstrating great skill • Not interacting with anyone and sticking to the corner.
Unite the Union stands out from other organisations because:
Opportunities at Unite the Union: We have a number of vacancies on our website as well as a vacancy advertising portal Unite4Jobs.
Application method and deadlines: Visit our website for more information on how to apply for these opportunities.
Three tips on how to make the most out of networking events: 1. Work on your personal brand and elevator pitch 2. Show up prepared; know who will be in the room and what you want to get out of the event 3. Work the room even when you think that you have met everyone you need to meet.
Find out more: www.unitetheunion.org
6th February 2018 Part 11. Impressive group work behaviours in assessment centres A 1 – 2pm
Session outline: This session will give you the low-down on the IBM recruitment process. You will get hints, tips and advice from IBMers that have been through the process themselves and the chance to try out our IPAT and Assessment Centre. There will be an introduction to who IMB are, who the volunteers are and their roles, as well as a practice IPAT and mock assessment centre. This session will be highly interactive and will benefit from students interaction.
What will you get out of the session? • Knowledge of how assessment centres work • An insight as to how the IBM assessment centre works specifically • Opportunity to practice IBM’s IPAT test • A chance to quiz IBMers that have all been through the process on their experience.
A successful candidate is: Someone who demonstrates our competencies such as adaptability, communication, problem-solving, client focus, drive, teamwork, passion for IBM and taking ownership.
The most common mistakes candidates make in group assessment centres: Being too over-bearing. In IBM assessment centres you are not directly competing with others, you might have applied for different schemes and there is not a set number of candidates that would pass.
Three tips for succeeding in group assessment centres: 1. Do not solely focus on solving the problem. What really matters is how well you work within a team
Impressive group work behaviours include: Being adaptable, communicating well, possessing problem-solving skills and most of all teamwork.
IBM stands out from other organisations because: We’re the largest technology and consulting firm within the world. From helping transform healthcare to improving the retail shopping experience, it is what IBMers do. Our work and our people can be found in all sorts of interesting places. Mathematicians, coders, and web designers contribute to creativity in the kitchen, rerouting traffic jams, even designing the next generation fan experience in sports stadiums around the world. It is the kind of thing we have been doing for more than 100 years.
Opportunities at IBM: • University placement scheme: technology, business, finance, human resources, marketing and software development • 12-week summer internship: business and technology • Graduate scheme: business, sales, consulting and technology.
Application method and deadlines: You can find out more about our opportunities and deadlines through our website.
Find out more: www-05.ibm.com/employment/uk-en
2. Do your research, not just old IBM but the current stuff we’re doing 3. Ask a lot of questions such as What do you think about that? and Do you agree? to bring out more introverted members. 18|19
6th February 2018 Part 11. Impressive group work behaviours in assessment centres B 6 – 7pm
Session outline: We will be looking at what competencies candidates are assessed on in assessment centre group activities, and how they can maximise their potential in these assessments. This will be an interactive session with break-outs and opportunities for group discussions.
What will you get out of the session? You will gain confidence and a better understanding of what happens at an assessment centre. You will also get the opportunity to experience a real-life group activity.
A successful candidate is one that: Being successful in a group work exercise involves a lot of teamwork. The members of the group should be listening to each other, taking each other’s views on board and constructively inputting to the discussion to help the group reach a final outcome.
The most common mistakes candidates make in group assessment centres are: Not reading the instructions properly, not inputting to the group discussion and overselling your point by talking over others and being dismissive.
Three tips for succeeding in group assessment centres: 1. Always read all the literature you are provided with and ask questions before you start to make sure you have clearly understood the task and timings involved 2. Engage with others whilst listening to what each person has to say 3. Make sure there is structure to the conversations. For example, when completing a timed exercise, ensure that someone in the group keeps track of the time.
Impressive group work behaviours include: Someone who has done their research and arrives to the assessment centre promptly and looking smart. They also engage with other candidates and the assessors, take on feedback, listen to instructions and let their personality come through.
Bond Dickinson stands out from other organisations because: Bond Dickinson is an award-winning commercial law firm where people are at the very heart of what we do. Our approach is really quite simple and underpinned by our values. We work hard but we also want our people to enjoy long and successful careers with us. That means making sure that everybody has the opportunity to develop and grow as well as being rewarded for their successes.
Opportunities at Bond Dickinson: We offer a range of opportunities for students and graduates including insight days and our graduate programme. We are also currently developing a new programme for students interested in a career as a solicitor but without any work experience.
Application method and deadlines: Candidates should apply through our website.
Find out more: www.bonddickinson.com/careers
13th February 2018 Part 12. Presenting to impress in group assessment centres A 1 – 2pm
Session outline: This session will look at presentations in assessment centres, what format they can take and what employers expect from you. The session will allow students to hone their presentation skills and reflect on their own personal skill level. CIMA is running this session because of its experience working with an array of employers across various industries. We will look at the fundamentals of a good presentation using the Content, Audience, Resources, Self-delivery (CARS) formula to set the scene. This will be followed by some group presentation pitches to put the theory into practice and allow students to hone their skills.
What will you get out of the session? A better understanding of what a good presentation is and what employers look for in such activities.
A successful candidate is:
Impressive presenting behaviours include: • Good, confident delivery (positive body language, good tone, pitch pace, eye contact, smile) • Being knowledgeable and engaging.
CIMA stands out from other organisations because: We are the largest body of Management Accountants the world.
Opportunities at CIMA There are hundreds of opportunities to study CIMA with our employer partners across all industries
Application method and deadlines: We have opportunities year round, all of which are online with various deadlines.
Someone who is clear, concise, interesting, informative, professional and punctual.
The most common mistakes candidates make when presenting at group assessment centres are:
Find out more: www.cimaglobal.com/ gradclub.cimaglobal.com
Not giving themselves enough time to prepare their presentation.
Three tips for succeeding in presenting at group assessment centres: 1. Manage your time 2. Plan properly 3. Know your content.
Attend panel events, such as Careers in the Charity Sector and Careers in Investment Banking, to engage with and observe employers in action. To find out more and secure your place, register through City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students. 20|21
13th February 2018 Part 12. Presenting to impress in group assessment centres B 6 – 7pm
Session outline: How candidates at an assessment centre can make the most of their time to impress and stand out. We are running the session as we have noticed many candidates do not know how to make the most of themselves in a group assessment centre with several elements. This will be an interactive question and answer session incorporating some well-learned techniques you may find useful. We will be finding out what participants knowledge and assumptions are and challenge them by giving them something to consider and stimulate thought and learning.
What will you get out of the session? Understand the different elements making up a group assessment centre, how to perform well in each element as well as traps to avoid and skills to employ.
A successful candidate is: Someone who meets the criteria the company is looking for in terms of attitude, cultural fit and knowledge and stands out from others in a positive manner.
The most common mistakes candidates make when presenting at group assessment centres are:
Impressive presenting behaviours include: • Confidence • Knowledge • Clarity • Obvious preparation • Effective communication skills.
Heathrow stands out from other organisations because: The sheer scale of 77 million passengers passing through Heathrow each year through four active terminals whose maintenance engineering is responsible for along with a range of airport infrastructure projects management of facilities, rail, asset management and data make working in this 700 strong team a unique and diverse experience.
Opportunities at Heathrow: We currently offer places on our engineering development programme as well as internships.
Application method and deadlines: You can find out more about the opportunities we offer and how to apply on our website.
• Too quiet or too loud • Too ambitious • Underprepared and careless • Not reading the brief carefully enough.
Three tips for succeeding in presenting at group assessment centres: 1. Do your research 2. Understand what the company is looking for culturally 3. Practice your interview and presentation skills.
Find out more: www.heathrow.com/careers
20th February 2018 Part 13. How to develop and demonstrate leadership skills A 1 – 2pm
Session outline:
An impressive candidate is:
This session will aim to help you identify the key competencies needed to be an effective leader and ways you can develop and build these skills whilst at university. This will be an interactive session with breakout and group work opportunities that will enable you to demonstrate your leadership skills in future applications and interviews.
Thinks about their career path and history and how it relates to what they stand for. An impressive candidate is thoughtful about how their own professional DNA can map to the company’s values. When they are engaged with a company like ours that drives the evaluation process around company culture and leadership principles, candidates have to understand the company philosophies and why they are important.
What will you get out of the session? You will gain a better understanding of what leadership qualities employers are looking for, how to identify and develop these qualities in yourself and ways in which you can demonstrate leadership skills effectively in applications and interviews.
Good leadership is: There are a number of skills that make a good leader. At Amazon we have 14 leadership principles all of our staff rely on every day whether they are discussing new project ideas, deciding solutions to problems or interviewing candidates. We will not list them all here but you can find them on our website.
The most common mistakes candidates make when demonstrating leadership skills are:
Amazon stands out from other organisations because: We are a company of pioneers. It is our job to make bold bets, and we get our energy from inventing on behalf of customers. Success is measured against the possible, not the probable. For today’s pioneers, that is exactly why there is no place on Earth they would rather build than Amazon.
Opportunities at Amazon: We have a number of opportunities in various areas at Amazon including internships, MBA opportunities, full time graduate roles as well as student and graduate places on our development programmes.
Application method and deadlines:
Some of the most common mistakes candidates make when demonstrating leadership skills are not giving relevant, up to date examples and not answering the question to fully demonstrate their skills.
All of our opportunities are listed on our website.
Three tips on how to develop and demonstrate leadership skills:
Find out more: www.amazon.jobs/en-gb
1. Leaders are never done learning and always seek to improve themselves, be curious about new possibilities and act to explore them 2. Keep a record of your achievements so that you can go to interviews prepared with relevant examples 3. Leaders are owners. They think long term and do not sacrifice long-term value for short-term results.
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20th February 2018 Part 13. How to develop and demonstrate leadership skills B 6 – 7pm
Session outline: The aim of this session is to get you thinking about your leadership skills, competencies and how to apply for graduate opportunities. This will be an interactive session with plenty of opportunities for group discussions. We will compare graduate leadership, educational leadership and leadership in business and cover how to demonstrate your own leadership potential and recognise it in others.
What will you get out of the session? An understanding of the fundamentals of leadership and the qualities that make a good leader.
Good leadership is: Not black and white. There are many traits and examples of good leadership such as being forwardthinking, assertive, inclusive and determined.
The most common mistakes candidates make when demonstrating leadership skills are: Not providing examples that fully demonstrate their competency, structuring their answers poorly and not thinking out of the box.
Three tips on how to develop and demonstrate leadership skills: 1. Get involved with things that interest you at university, such as student societies and sports teams 2. Put yourself forward to lead 3. K eep a journal of how you are developing your competencies.
An impressive candidate is: Someone who is thinking outside the box at all times.
Teach First stands out from other organisations because: We look for people who want to be part of a social movement to eradicate educational inequality in the UK.
Opportunities at Teach First: Our two-year Leadership Development Programme, a two-day employability opportunity for first year students and a two-week paid internship for second years.
Application method and deadlines: You can apply for our opportunities through our website.
Find out more: graduates.teachfirst.org.uk
27th February 2018 Part 14. How to succeed in the job market A 1 – 2pm
Session outline: The more diverse a team, the more innovative and successful it will be. Learn how to switch off our cultural cruise control and uncover cultural nuances that can help you collaborate and communicate more effectively with an ever more increasing global workforce.
What will you get out of the session? Develop an appreciation of the nuances of global communication styles.
What are the essential skills graduates need to succeed in the job market?
Bloomberg stands out from other organisations because: Bloomberg unleashes the power of information to inspire people who want to change the world. In the worlds of business, finance, government, policy and philanthropy, our aim is true: provide data, information and insights that help cut through complexity to solve challenges great and small.
Opportunities at Bloomberg: We have a number of opportunities in analytics and sales, global data, operations and software engineering.
• Adaptability
Application method and deadlines:
• Communication
To find out more and to apply please see our website.
• Ability to learn and develop soft-skills on the job.
How can graduates remain competitive in the job market? Seek opportunities to demonstrate your employability skills, e.g. internships, volunteering, extracurricular activities.
Find out more: www.bloomberg.com/careers
An impressive candidate is: • Fully researched • Presentable • Positive • Well-mannered.
Take this booklet to your appointment with a Careers Consultant to discuss how you can incorporate these suggestions into your applications. 24|25
27th February 2018 Part 14. How to succeed in the job market B 6 – 7pm
Session outline: Being in the right place, at the right time, in front of the right person: the ability to know what you want to do and to sell you, the candidate, and be the best version of yourself. There will be no tests or structured processes, but it will be a conversation, where we will ask questions and engage with the people in the room. People will be encouraged to participate. To challenge and be challenged.
Blackwell Global Investments stands out from other organisations because: It is at the forefront of retail derivatives brokers that offer clients the ability to trade, through one platform, the most liquid global markets.
Opportunities at Blackwell Global Investments: We have numerous graduate positions in: • Sales and client relationship management
What will you get out of the session?
• Compliance, operations,
Tips on how to sell yourself and put yourself in the top five percent of potential candidates.
• Social and digital marketing
What are the essential skills graduates need to succeed in the job market?
Application method and deadlines:
• A clear understanding of what they want • Understanding of their strengths and weaknesses • Preparation and hard work
• Risk management.
We are always on the lookout for good candidates with a genuine interest in financial markets, preferably with language skills as clients are sourced worldwide.
• Perseverance and the ability to put themselves in an uncomfortable position • The right qualifications and skills.
How can graduates remain competitive in the job market?
Find out more: www.blackwellglobal.com
With an ability to demonstrate results and progression.
An impressive candidate is:
Industry Insights
• Qualified
The Industry Insight Programme, sponsored by FDM Group, allows you to explore a range of industries and sectors, either related to your degree or in another area of interest to you. A series of full-day or half-day events will take place on company premises, giving you a deep insight into a specific company and an understanding of your chosen sector. For more information, visit City CareersHub: careershub.city.ac.uk/students.
• Confident • Self-aware • Persuasive • Humble • Punctual • Well groomed.
Choose five skills‌ ...that are important for the area of work that you want to go into. Identify which employers will be on campus and ask them which skills their organisation values the most. If your top employer is not on campus, then take a look at their website and find the key skills/competencies that they are looking for. Take a moment to think about what you can do to develop these skills further and write an action point next to each one.
For example: The skill I would like to develop: Commercial awareness. Employer name: Bloomberg The skills they value: Teamwork, communication, commercial awareness, problem solving. How I am going to develop this: Read about relevant news stories on a daily basis and think about how they impact the industry/organisation I am interested in. Speak to employers at careers events and find out what issues and challenges their businesses face. By when: By the end of academic year 2017/18. The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when: The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when: The skill I would like to develop: Employer name: The skills they value: How I am going to develop this: By when:
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Careers Service City, University of London Northampton Square London EC1V 0HB T: +44 (0)20 7040 8093 E: careers@city.ac.uk www.city.ac.uk/careers
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