Step 1 – Explore your options

Step 1

Take time to explore and weigh up your options

Whether you are a recent graduate or are several years outside university, your unique experience and degree has equipped you with skills and has opened up opportunities with a variety of employers and occupations. Take time to reflect on your experience and connections, to develop a good picture of your options, which you can investigate. There are a range of opportunities to consider:

■ Further learning: Postgraduate, professional training, a Masters or a short skills course? ■ Full-time or part-time work, graduate entry level roles, graduate schemes, a sidewards move, or a total change in direction?

■ Starting your own business or going freelance? ■ Pausing to take time out, to add to your experience or to consider volunteering?

Be realistic about the context

The Coronavirus outbreak has changed the face of employment and it is important to understand how the labour market is changing constantly and how it might impact on decisions you make. The National Higher Education Careers Service, Prospects www.prospects.ac.uk has some helpful insights and regular labour market updates as well as some helpful tips on job hunting and staying positive. The BBC www.bbc.co.uk has regular employment updates and People Management www.peoplemanagement.co.uk has a regular blog.