Academic excellence for business and the professions
Employability Skills Programme Autumn 2013 Tuesdays 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
Sponsored by
Brought to you by the Career & Skills Development Service www.city.ac.uk/careers
We are delighted to invite you to the 2013 Employability Skills Programme. Employability Skills Tuesdays 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. If you attend seven out of the eighteen sessions, you will be awarded a certificate. Please note that each evening session is a repetition of the respective afternoon session. You must attend seven sessions with different titles in order to receive a certificate. The following sessions are scheduled to take place in autumn 2013. How to write winning cvs and applications 1st October 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to develop and demonstrate commercial awareness 5th November 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to demonstrate strong written communication skills 8th October 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to prepare for psychometric tests 12th November 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to succeed at telephone interviews 15th October 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to tackle group work at assessment centres 19th November 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to succeed at interviews 22nd October 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to tackle presentations at assessment centres 26th November 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to develop networking skills / networking online 29th October 2013 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
Remember: Be professional, be prepared To secure your place, register online at www.city.ac.uk/careers
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 extracurricular 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 at www.city.ac.uk/careers
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
1st October 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to write winning cvs and applications Session outline: This workshop aims to give students an insight into what employers look for when screening cvs and application forms and show how to make an application stand out. Participants will have the opportunity to practise some competency questions and cv writing. We will also present current graduate experiences and insight into their journey with RBS Group to date. The session will finish up with questions and answers. What will you get out of the session? Increased confidence when submitting applications and a better understanding of: • RBS’s recruitment and application process • What employers look for in an applicant • How to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls when making an application • How to structure a cv and an answer to a competency question • How to make an application stand out from others. The most common mistakes candidates make on their cvs or applications are: • Spelling mistakes • Wrong company/organisation name • Lack of understanding about the company/ organisation they are applying to. Top tips for writing winning cvs: • Good structure with clear formatting • Be selective about what information you include • Keep your cv to one page (two at the most). Three tips for writing winning applications: • Take your time, be concise, be honest.
An impressive candidate is: Passionate about what they do, shows commitment and drive, shows potential, is a self-starter, is curious, has a desire to challenge, is eager to learn, develop and grow, is a strong team player, shows entrepreneurial spirit, is an excellent communicator, is adaptable and flexible and is able to manage pressure. RBS stands out from other organisations because: We genuinely value the work that our graduates do within the organisation and the contribution they make to building a better, more stable bank. You’ll have everything you need to get your career with us off to a great start. But we won’t stop there – you’ll be encouraged to grow into your role and take advantage of our bespoke development programme. You’ll also be encouraged to gain professional qualifications where appropriate. Opportunities at RBS: Numerous opportunities available including Graduate programmes, Summer Internships and Spring Insight programmes within areas such as Investment Banking (M&IB), Corporate Banking, Wealth Management, Business Services Leadership, Finance, Risk, HR, Group Internal Audit. Application method and deadlines: Apply online via www.rbsbankyoubuild.com. Deadline dates will vary between programmes. Check our website for details.
Employer in Residence RBS Mock Interview sessions RBS will be offering one to one mock interviews to students on 1st October between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.rbsbankyoubuild.com 2/3
8th October 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to demonstrate strong written communication skills Session outline: This workshop aims to increase students’ awareness around effective communication and engaging your audience. This will be an interactive session and will start with an introduction to BP and then move into an exciting workshop, exercises and discussion. What will you get out of the session? • Simple and useful tips • Guidance on preparation • Advice on getting organised. Strong written communication skills are important to employers because: They ensure you get noticed in those ever larger piles of application forms! Three tips on how to develop strong written communication skills: Plan, prepare & know your audience. Three tips on how to demonstrate strong written communication skills: Be accurate, to the point and don’t use more words than you need.
BP stands out from other organisations because: Help us capture the world’s precious oil and gas resources and enhance the potential of renewable and alternative energy. In return, we’ll invest in your skills and offer you continuous learning opportunities within a culture of respect and collaboration. You’ll be joining a company that strives to be a leader for safety in our industry. A worldclass operator that puts safety and operational excellence above all else. We’re committed to providing the energy the world needs today and in the changing world of tomorrow. A great employer that unites its people through a shared set of values. Opportunities at BP: Please visit the BP students and graduate website for more information on our 2014 opportunities. Application method and deadlines: Apply online via www.bp.com/graduates from 16th September 2013.
An impressive candidate is: One who can really articulate clearly their experiences, qualifications and background and tell an engaging story about their reasons for application.
Employer in Residence BP will be offering one to one mock interviews to students interested in their IT opportunities on 8th October between 3 and 5pm. Find out how to book and see the details at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.bp.com/graduates
15th October 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to succeed at telephone interviews Session outline: This session will focus on how students can conquer telephone interviews. We will discuss do’s and don’ts, how to prepare for a telephone interview and how to perform well while thinking on the spot. What will you get out of the session? • An understanding of why companies use telephone interviews • A recognition of the importance of research and commercial awareness. A successful telephone interviewee is: Enthusiastic, motivated and able to understand Sainsbury’s values and mission. One who is able to construct an answer relevant to the question asked. The most common mistakes candidates make in telephone interviews are: Many candidates are not prepared for interviews because of a lack of research. Also, over rehearsed answers mean that the candidate can speak too fast or not answer the question being asked. Three tips for succeeding at telephone interviews: • Prepare! Read the company website and the job description for the role you are applying for • Speak clearly and ensure you are answering the question • Prepare a few examples of your achievements. An impressive candidate is: Someone who is engaging and understands the company and why they are applying for the role.
Sainsbury’s stands out from other organisations because: During the next decade, the retail sector will become a very different place. This change is at the heart of the journey that Sainsbury’s is taking as an organisation: progressing together towards a vision for 2020. To achieve this, we will need leaders: individuals with outstanding intellect, business acumen and ambition. Not simply graduates who want to grow with us, but natural pacesetters who expect, demand and deserve senior responsibility very early in their careers. Opportunities at Sainsbury’s: We are recruiting for graduate and placement positions. The following roles/functions are available: the Operations Programme involves placements in Retail and Logistics; the Commercial Programme includes placements in Buying and Marketing; the People Programme offers placements in our HR and Customer Service Division. Application method and deadlines: Submit an online application form and view deadline updates at www.sainsburys.jobs/graduates. If you have any questions, please email us at grad.recruitment@sainsburys.co.uk.
Employer in Residence Sainsbury’s will be offering one to one appointments to students on 15th October between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.sainsburys.jobs/graduates 4/5
22nd October 2013, 1 to 2pm
How to succeed at interviews Session outline: This interactive session is designed to explain the different types of interviews companies use during their selection process (such as competency based interviews), formats you might come across while being interviewed and how to prepare for them. There will be a presentation that will break out into group sessions throughout to practise the techniques and approaches discussed. Feedback will be provided on the day to help participants understand how they performed and what to work on for future interviews. What will you get out of the session? By the end of the session students should understand the different types of interviews and interview questions used by companies, how best to prepare for an interview, and how to sell themselves and interact during the selection process. A successful interviewee is one that: Has done their research on the company and the role, understands why they think they are the best candidate for the role, can give practical examples of the skills required, understands their development points and has their own questions for the interviewer. The most common mistakes candidates make in interviews are: Not explaining themselves clearly, not answering the question being asked and letting nerves get the better of them. Interviewers can only review a candidate based on what they say during an interview, so if a candidate doesn’t demonstrate the required skills due to being unprepared or too nervous, they can’t make themselves stand out from any other applicant. Three tips for succeeding at interviews: • Research the company and role/programme in depth Contact:
• Review the competencies required and prepare examples to demonstrate that capability • Give thorough answers that demonstrate your knowledge, experience and interest. An impressive candidate is… Someone who has clearly understood what they have applied for, is able to apply their experience to demonstrate key skills and has plenty of questions to ask the interviewers throughout the process. This shows genuine interest, aptitude and attitude. Morgan Stanley stands out from other organisations because: The firm has continually broken new ground in advising our clients on strategic transactions, in pioneering the global expansion of finance and capital markets, and in providing new opportunities for individual and institutional investors. Opportunities at Morgan Stanley: Multiple opportunities firmwide. Please see website for details. Application method and deadlines: Please apply online via www.morganstanley.com/careers.
Employer in Residence Morgan Stanley will be offering one to one cv checks to students on 22nd October between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Find out more: www.morganstanley.com/careers
22nd October 2013, 6 to 7pm
How to succeed at interviews Session outline: Students are thinking about employment more than ever, so this combined with a competitive jobs market means you need to be as prepared for the selection process as possible. EY’s interactive skills session provides guidance, tips and insights into application and interview techniques. What will you get out of the session? The session will equip you with the skills you need to succeed with applications and interviews and give you the opportunity to practise in a safe environment as well as learn top tips on how to effectively prepare for the selection process. You will receive feedback throughout the session which will help you to identify your individual strengths.
An impressive candidate is: Prepared, articulate, energised and motivated for the role they are applying for. EY stands out from other organisations because: We are the only one of the Big Four that uses strengths-based interview techniques. Opportunities at EY: Graduate roles, Industrial Placements, Summer Internships and places to our Discover EY (new this year) and Leadership Academy. Application method and deadlines: Apply online at www.ey.com/uk/careers.
A successful interviewee is one that: Is prepared and is able to share varied examples that demonstrates their strengths. The most common mistake candidates make in interviews is: Providing rehearsed responses that do not answer the questions. Three tips for succeeding at interviews: • When thinking about examples ask yourself ‘what have I done that has been above the norm and really made a difference?’ • Keep examples varied • Think about times when you have felt happy, fulfilled and energetic and this will help you get started on answering a question. Employer in Residence EY will be offering one to one cv checks to students on 22nd October between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.ey.com/uk/careers 6/7
29th October 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to develop networking skills/networking online Session outline: In today’s current employment market, being able to network in a confident and effective way is important for building personal brand and increasing employability. The session will focus on effective networking skills and provide examples of techniques that can be used in both face to face and online networking situations. The session will be delivered by two members of the Bloomberg recruitment team and involve a presentation and discussion. The session will be interactive and students are encouraged to come prepared with questions. What will you get out of the session? • Knowledge of how to approach a networking situation • The benefits of being an effective networker • The benefits of developing strong relationships. A successful interviewee is one that: Prepares before a networking event, has exceptional business etiquette skills and has a positive attitude when approaching and making new connections.
Three top tips on how to make the most out of networking events: • Always show an interest in the people you meet and make a positive first impression • Practise a brief elevator speech before an event to articulate what you do/what you can do for someone else • Develop a networking strategy for when you attend an event – who do you want to meet? What would you like to learn? What can you give to someone? Opportunities at Bloomberg: Bloomberg recruit all year round into our entry level programmes including Financial Software Development, Financial Products Sales and Analytics, Global Data and Operations. Bloomberg also offer a ten week, fully paid internship across the summer. Applications for the 2014 programme will open in November 2013. Application method and deadlines: To find out more and apply online, visit: www.bloomberg.com/careers.
The most common networking mistake is: Trying to take before you give. It’s important to establish a mutual relationship when you network. Always ensure you give something to the connection you make, and don’t just focus on what you can take from them.
Employer in Residence Bloomberg will be offering one to one appointments to students on 29th October between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.bloomberg.com/careers
5th November 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to develop and demonstrate commercial awareness Session outline: What is Commercial Awareness? This session will look at understanding this question. Often we hear during interview processes that this is where students can fall down so prepare for the recruitment season by learning how to develop and demonstrate commercial awareness. This skills workshop will be an interactive chance to learn and to ask questions with a specific focus on the Investment Banking industry. What will you get out of the session? You will leave with tangible next steps to help with preparing for internship interviews. Good commercial awareness is: Understanding the industry and broader environment within which a business operates. It is an understanding of the specific company you are interested in and being able to voice opinions on issues it may be facing. The most common mistake candidates make when demonstrating commercial awareness is: Overstating your understanding of a certain issue for example by quoting statistics without understanding the underlying factors. Three tips on how to develop and demonstrate commercial awareness: • Research the macro picture, understand the environment and how this affects the industry you are interested in • Research the organisation you are applying to • Use experiences from your own cv and relate these to the role you are applying for.
An impressive candidate is: Able to articulate why they are interested in the industry, the organisation and the role and show their genuine desire to work in the environment. Goldman Sachs stands out from other organisations because: The people of Goldman Sachs share a passion for achieving results and recognise that success comes with integrity. Their unique backgrounds, individual perspectives and diverse skills are put to the test as they help our clients achieve their business goals. Academic discipline is less important than the personal qualities an individual brings with them, however a strong interest in and appreciation of finance is important. Whatever your background, it is intellect, personality and zest for life that the firm values the most. Opportunities at Goldman Sachs: Spring Internship (students graduating in 2016), Work Placement (students graduating in 2016) and Summer Internship (students graduating in 2015) across a broad range of divisions of the firm. Application method and deadlines: Apply online at www.goldmansachs.com/careers.
Employer in Residence Goldman Sachs will be offering one to one appointments to students on 5th November between 3 and 5pm. Find out how to book and see the details at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.goldmansachs.com/careers 8/9
12th November 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to prepare for psychometric tests Session outline: We will look at how to tackle psychometric tests in a recruitment process. The session will be very interactive. It will give students the opportunity to practise tests and learn hints and tips on preparing for testing sessions.
PwC stands out from other organisations because: We are one of the world’s leading professional services organisations. From 158 countries, we advise the most successful organisations, entrepreneurs and private businesses.
What will you get out of the session? It will remove the mystery around psychometric testing and reduce the anxiety related to taking the tests.
Opportunities at PwC: Graduate, 11 month business placements, Internships, Talent Academy and Partner Shadowing.
Three most common mistakes candidates make in psychometric tests are: • Not practising beforehand • Not allowing enough time for each question • Not reading instructions.
Application method and deadlines: Online at www.pwc.com/uk/careers.
Three tips for preparing for psychometric tests: • Get a good night’s sleep • Allow enough time to arrive at the testing centre • Listen to what you are asked to do and pay full attention to test instructions. An impressive candidate is: Someone who can demonstrate that they have carried out their research on our business and have enthusiasm and passion for the sector they are applying for.
Take this booklet to an appointment with a Careers Consultant at the Career & Skills Development Service who can assist you to incorporate this into a strong application to your chosen employer/s.
Employer in Residence PwC will be offering one to one appointments to students on 12th November between 3 and 5pm. To find out more and book your appointment, please visit www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Contact:
Find out more: www.pwc.com/uk/careers
19th November 2013, 1 to 2pm and 6 to 7pm
How to tackle group work at assessment centres Session outline: We will cover what is expected from you in an assessment centre and give you some hints and tips. You will have the opportunity to participate in Assessment Centre style group exercise and develop the vital skills that graduate employers look for, including (but not limited to) teamwork, communication and creative problem solving. What will you get out of the session? Students will receive tangible feedback on behaviours and competencies demonstrated within the group exercises which can be either developed and/or maintained in readiness for when they are in the recruitment process. A successful group work exercise is one that: Creates a lot of discussion, enables everyone in the team to contribute, generates a lot of ideas and reaches an amicable conclusion. The most common mistakes candidates make in group work assessment centre exercises are: • Being overly assertive and not listening to others • Running out of time and thus being unable to reach a conclusion • Giving no structure to the discussion and taking no role within the team. Three tips for tackling group work at assessment centres: • Read the brief carefully. Complete all parts of the exercise, sometimes this means reading the instructions twice. Manage time effectively – it goes quicker than you think! • Include everyone in the conversation and if there is someone quiet in the group – ask them a question to engage them in the discussion. • If there are several people trying to be the “leader” – rather than trying to compete – assume another role within the group. Whilst
Contact:
leadership is an important criteria recruiters look for – it is not everything they look for. An impressive candidate is: Able to present balanced arguments, manages time well and includes all members of the team in the discussion. Civil Service Fast Stream stands out from other organisations because: One reason why the Fast Stream is so popular is that it enables graduates to have real impact on life in the UK and, often, the wider world. Civil Service Fast Stream opportunities: The Civil Service Fast Stream is a talent management programme for graduates who have the potential to become future leaders of the Civil Service. Education, Health, Justice, Employment, Defence, Transport, Climate Change, International Development and Foreign Affairs. These are just some of the areas where graduates on the Civil Service Fast Stream get to put their ideas into practice. Application method and deadlines: Online at http://faststream.civilservice.gov.uk/. See website for application closing dates.
Employer in Residence Civil Service Fast Stream will be offering one to one mock interviews to students on 19th November between 3 and 5pm. Find out how to book and see the details at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Find out more: http://faststream.civilservice.gov.uk/ 10/11
26th November 2013, 1 to 2pm
How to tackle presentations at assessment centres Session outline: Presentations are a key element to assessment centres and can be a daunting experience. This workshop aims to educate students in the best practices for preparing and delivering presentations. This session will also provide an insight into Citi’s opportunities, recruitment process and assessment centre format. The session will be interactive with plenty of opportunities for questions! What will you get out of the session? • Top tips on how to prepare for a presentation • Advice on how to deliver a winning presentation • Overview of Citi and our recruitment processes. A successful presentation is one that is: Well prepared, concise and presented with confidence. The most common mistakes candidates make in presentations are: Poor presentation structure; not presenting your points in a clear and concise manner or speaking too quickly or quietly. Three tips for tackling presentations at assessment centres: • Practise: Take any opportunities available to practise your presentations skills e.g. in seminars, societies • Wear a watch: You are only allotted a specific to prepare and present so you must you manage the time as best as possible • Prepare: Ensure you research the company and market you are interviewing for as it will help you better understand any case study you are asked to present on.
Contact:
An impressive candidate is: Personable, confident, well prepared and has a passion for a career at Citi. Citi stands out from other organisations because: We are a universal bank offering more than just investment banking services. We offer a full array of banking services which means the opportunities within the bank are vast. We are also the only truly global bank. Opportunities at Citi: We run Spring Insight Programmes for First Year students; offer Summer Internships and Full Time Graduate Opportunities in the following business areas: Investment Banking, Corporate Banking, Sales & Trading, Capital Markets Origination, Citi Investment Research, Treasury and Trade Solutions, Securities and Fund Services, Citi Private Bank, Operations, Technology, Risk Management and Human Resources. Application method and deadlines: Apply online via www.oncampus.citi.com with a covering letter and cv. If you have any questions, please email us at campus.queries@citi.com.
Attend Careers in the City and Careers in Finance & Consulting panel events and observe employers in action. This is a great way to find out more about different presentation styles and techniques. To secure your place, register online at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
Find out more: www.oncampus.citi.com
26th November 2013, 6 to 7pm
How to tackle presentations at assessment centres Session outline: A look at how to articulate yourself with confidence during presentations and at interviews, focusing on how to persuade, how to ‘sell’ yourself and how to plan an effective presentation. The session will be taken in a ‘lesson’ style so it will involve the input of students. You will be expected to contribute and there will be role plays.
Teach First stands out from other organisations because: We can give you the skills to lead in any sector while making a difference to educational disadvantage.
What will you get out of the session? You should get the chance to reflect on the reasons why we find delivering presentations nerve-wracking. Look at tactics to build confidence and strategies for implementing effective presentations.
Application method and deadlines: There is no deadline as applications are ongoing and have opened in June. We recommend an early application to avoid any disappointment. Apply online at graduates.teachfirst.org.uk.
TeachFirst opportunities: Leadership Development Programme (ongoing).
A successful presentation is one that: Gets across the intended message and brings a bit of the speaker’s personality with it. The most common mistake candidates make in presentations is: Pretending the audience is not there. Three top tips for tackling presentations at assessment centres: • Do not script the entirety of your speech • Try to engage the audience and interest them in what you are talking about • Be passionate about your subject. An impressive candidate is: Able to build flexibility into their presentation.
Contact:
City’s Snapshot: Your Insight into Industry Scheme Would you like to meet with and shadow professionals who have specific knowledge about the occupation or career in which you are interested? Look out for City’s Snapshot Scheme at www.city.ac.uk/careers. Find out more: graduates.teachfirst.org.uk 12/13
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
The skill I would like to develop
commercial awareness Employer name: PwC
Employer name:
The skills they value: Teamwork, leadership, commerical awareness, problem solving
The skills they value:
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.
How I am going to develop this:
By when: By the end of academic year 2013/14
By when:
The skill I would like to develop
The skill I would like to develop
Employer name:
Employer name:
The skills they value:
The skills they value:
How I am going to develop this:
How I am going to develop this:
By when:
By when:
Skills Sessions PLUS
Run by City’s professionally qualified career consultants These sessions are an excellent way to develop the skills and understanding you have gained from attending the Employability Skills Programme. You will have the chance to broaden your understanding of what employers across different sectors and of different sizes look for. Some sessions will be focused on helping you practise your employability skills and others may feature a guest speaker. The sessions are designed to give you an additional edge in your job search. How to search for internships and Graduate jobs
3rd October 2013 10th October 2013
12 to 1pm 1 to 2pm
How to draft cvs
3rd October 2013 10th October 2013
1 to 2pm 12 to 1pm
How to accelerate your application forms
10th October 2013 17th October 2013
2 to 3pm 1 to 2pm
How to gain an edge in the job market
17th October 2013
12 to 1pm
How to ace interviews
24 October 2013 31st October 2013
12 to 1pm 1 to 2pm
How to network effectively with employers
24th October 2013
2 to 3pm
23rd October 2013
1 to 3pm
th
New Central Workshop: Play to your strengths at Assessment Centres and Group Interviews (MBTI based personality questionnaire)
Also watch out for workshops tailored to international students or supporting you with applications for part-time and temporary work. To secure your place register online at www.city.ac.uk/careers.
First year students It’s never too early to start thinking about your career – read on to find out why it is important to engage early... Competition for good roles is ever increasing, and the sooner you start to think about your career opportunities the better. Lots of employers have opportunities for first year students now, so securing a position on these insight programmes will give you great work experience and help you to understand what you want out of your future career. Morgan Stanley Build a relationship with potential employers – you cannot have too many options. BP Many of the first year programmes offered by employers lead on to internship and graduate programmes for the following year. Engaging early also allows you to make informed decisions about what types of industries you are interested in and what employers you might want to work for. Early engagement will allow you to get your head around the recruitment cycle in readiness for when you are applying for intern and graduate roles. RBS Researching early the industries you are interested in gives you a wider range of opportunities. Goldman Sachs offers Spring Internships to students two years away from graduating across a number of our divisions. They are two week long internships that involve the chance to learn about the firm and work within a division to see if it is the best fit for you. Goldman Sachs
Top tips from employers on techniques to increase your employability skills... Attend as many careers focused events as possible to get a better insight into the type of career you see yourself in. Apply for internships early and get any work experience available. Joining clubs or societies also demonstrates your commitment and interests which employers find very interesting. Morgan Stanley Attend careers fairs and employer run presentations/skills sessions to meet with organisations so that you can start to think about the type of industry and employer you want to work for. Apply to first year programmes run by employers (e.g RBS Spring Insight programme or Indian Summer competition). Gain some form of work experience (even if part time or volunteering), join societies/clubs, enter awards run by your University. You will be able to show how the skills learnt can be transferred to the programme(s) you are applying to in the future. RBS Make the most of the opportunities through your Careers Service and meet with companies to make an informed decision about your career path. Goldman Sachs Join a club or society that helps you develop your skills and experience further. BP
Career & Skills Development Service City University London Northampton Square London EC1V 0HB T: +44 (0)20 7040 8093 E: careers@city.ac.uk www.city.ac.uk/careers
The bank you build Graduate and Intern programmes at RBS The fresh-thinking you generate. The skills you develop. The relationships you grow. As a graduate or intern here at RBS, the unique contribution you make will help shape the future of our organisation. So we’re looking for people who will thrive in an ever-evolving business and who are ready to take on plenty of challenges along the way. If you’re ready to build a rewarding career and play your part in defining an international bank, come and talk to us today or visit rbsbankyoubuild.com