A step-by-step guide on how to land a graduate programme

Finding your first graduate programme can be a daunting task. You have spend the past 20 something years being told what to do and now you need to make decisions on your own. At Graduateships we were in your shoes more than 6 years ago – looking for our first graduate programme. Since then we have become a lot smarter in terms of understanding how to best land your dream graduate programme. We have talked with more than a 100 graduates and programme managers to get the insights on what really matters for standing out amongst the hundres of applicants.

 

Below is a step by step guide to help you in the entire process and landing your dream graduate programme.

1. Self-assessment
2. Finding the right company and graduate programme
3. Create a compelling CV and Cover Letter
4. Sign-up to talent networks
5. Create a strong LinkedIn profile
6. Attend network and career events
7. Apply to graduate programmes
8. Prepare for interviews
9. Negotiate job offers

 

Below is a timeline of when you should start your process for applying to graduate programmes. By far the majority of graduate programmes will start accepting applications in November, December, January and February. So make sure you are ready to send high quality applications at that point in time

1. Self-Assessment: Know Your Skills and Interests

Before diving into job searching, take time to assess your skills, strengths, and interests. Identify your passions and the skills you’ve developed through education and extracurricular activities.

Recommendation:

• Reflect on Your Skills and Experience: Evaluate your skills and experiences in relation to the job requirements.Consider both technical skills and soft skills (communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
• Identify Strengths: List your strengths and accomplishments that align with the job. Highlight specific examples or projects where you demonstrated these strengths.
• Acknowledge Areas for Improvement: Be honest about areas where you can improve or skills you want to develop. This shows self-awareness and a willingness to grow.

 

2. Finding the right company: What kind of company do you want to work for?

Finding the right kind of company is crucial in the process. You should aim to have a clear view of the kind of companies you think you would strive at. There are many aspects to this but the key goal is limiting the number of potential companies that you want to apply for. What industries are you interesting? Do you want an international career? What kind of culture do you want to be apart of? How important is work-life-balance to you? Do you want to work for a large corporation or do you thrive better in smaller companies?

• Recommendation: Write down on a piece of paper: what location you want to work in? what industries you are attracted to? If you want to be able to rotate during the graduate programme? If you want to work for a large company or small company? what kind of culture you want to work for

 

 

3. Craft a Compelling Resume and Cover Letter

Build a professional resume that highlights your education, relevant coursework, internships, and any other experiences. Tailor your cover letter for each application, showcasing your enthusiasm and suitability for the specific role.

Recommendation:

• Link: Use the Resume and Cover Letter used by Harvard, Goldman Sachs, McKinsey and Stanford graduates
• Link: Use this detailed guide on how to write a strong CV

 

4. Signup to Talent Networks

Build a professional resume that highlights your education, relevant coursework, internships, and any other experiences. Tailor your cover letter for each application, showcasing your enthusiasm and suitability for the specific role.

Recommendation:

• Link: Sign up for Top Talent: This is your “Recruitment-on-Demand” service that will help find the best graduate programmes for you 

 

5. Create a LinkedIn profile

Set up a LinkedIn profile that mirrors your resume. Connect with professionals in your field of interest, join relevant groups, and share content related to your industry. A positive online presence can catch the attention of recruiters.

Recommendation:

• Link: Optimize your LinkedIn: 5 ways to improve your linkedin profile

 

6. Network and Attend Career Events

Attend career fairs, networking events, and informational sessions. Make connections with professionals and alumni in your field. Networking can open doors to job opportunities and provide valuable insights.

Recommendation:

• Attend the annual career fairs hosted by IT-Day (if you are interested in IT graduate programmes) and Karrieredagene (if you are interested in general graduate programmes). They host events all over Denmark so keep an eye out for their next career fair.

 

7. Apply to Graduate Programmes

Actively search for entry-level positions in your field. Use job boards, company websites, and industry-specific platforms to find opportunities. Don’t be afraid to apply to positions that align with your skills and interests.

Recommendation:

• Link: Denmark: Review graduateships overview of the best Danish Graduate Programmes
• Link: International: Review graduateships overview of the best International (EU focused) Graduate Programmes
• Sign up for Graduateships newsletter to receive the annual graduate guide which covers everything related to graduate programmes
• Other job sites with a focus on graduate programmes: Jobteaser 

 

 

8. Prepare for Interviews

Practice common interview questions, research the companies you’re applying to, and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Be ready to discuss your experiences and how they relate to the position.

Recommendation

•  Link: Go through this list of questions that you are likely to get in the interview and make sure you have good answers for the questions

 

9. Negotiate and Accept Job Offers Wisely

When you receive job offers, carefully evaluate them. Consider factors like salary, benefits, company culture, and growth opportunities. Don’t hesitate to negotiate terms before accepting an offer.

Recommendation:

• Salary Expectations: Most graduate programmes will be in the range between 35.000 – 45.000 DKK / Monthly averaging around 40.000 DKK / Month. Aim to be within this range.

 

 

Remember, finding a job takes time, so be patient and stay committed to the process. Good luck with your job search!