Preparing for your careers appointment
Appointment time is limited so doing some preparation in advance can help to make sure the time is used well. The first few minutes of your appointment will be spent deciding what you would like to discuss. It's always helpful to write a list of your questions in advance to help prioritise what's most important on this occasion.
As careers specialists, we'll do our best to answer your questions and provide tailored advice and guidance, we aim to help you feel more confident about your next steps by the end of the meeting.
Get started
The Careers website has lots of detailed information available on all things from job sectors to application advice, so have a look around!
- Watch our video What to expect at an appointment.
- Use our YouTube channel Advice videos and recorded Careers workshops available that could help you further your preparation.
- International students We have advice for you. Start with information on visas and the UK job market.
Next
Find your appointment type listed below and see what we recommend you look at before your appointment. This is not a requirement, but will allow us to use the time together effectively.
CV Review Appointments
You will already have already used the CV pathway and uploaded your CV to CareerConnect on booking. It's now time to tailor your application further.
- Review the job description for your application - make sure you have this available in your appointment to refer to.
- What do you think are the top skills or attributes the employer is looking for?
- Have you looked at the example CVs on our website?
- Consider the priority areas for development on your CV. What do you need most help with?
Applications Review appointments
You have already uploaded your application document to CareerConnect on booking.
- For cover letters review the advice here
- Advice for application forms
- Advice for further study applications
- Review the job description or course entry information - make sure you have this available in your appointment to refer to.
- What do you think are the top required skills or attributes?
- Consider the priority areas of development for your application. What do you need most help with?
Interview simulation appointments
Read the job description: If you were an employer which skills or experience would you be asking questions about at interview for this role?
- Our interview advice will help you prepare
- Learn about the STAR technique! YouTube video
- Try a practice interview on Shortlist.me This software allows to you practice interview questions and build your confidence prior to doing a real interview with an employer.
- Advice on sharing information about your disability
Why not start by preparing the answer to the very common question "Why have you applied for this particular role with us?"
Careers Advice Appointments (15 minutes)
This appointment is for you to ask quick questions and help you get started. The most popular topics are:
- Finding work experience Including part-time jobs, internships and placements.
- Getting started with career planning
- What can I do with my Degree?
- Considering postgraduate study
- Job search strategies
Careers Guidance Appointments (30 minutes)
This appointment can help you with decision making, exploring different options and taking the next step. The most popular topics for discussion include:
- I dont know what I want to do
- Evaluating your skills
- Exploring employment sectors
- Finding jobs
- Considering further study
Career planning with a disability or health concern
You may find it helpful to make a list of your questions and bring them to the appointment. Use the first few minutes to prioritise where you want to start.
The following are some popular areas that students and graduates explore in these appointments.
- Advice on sharing information about your disability
- Advice on requesting adjustments, at application, interview and in the workplace
- Finding graduate employers
- Finding work experience
Graduate appointments
Quick query, Information, and Advice Appointment (20mins) for Graduates / Alumni
If you just have a quick question why not start here?
Careers Guidance Appointment (30 mins) for Graduates / Alumni
As a graduate you may be taking the first steps on your career or exploring a change. These are some popular topics:
- I dont know what I want to do
- Evaluating your skills
- Exploring employment sectors
- Finding graduate jobs
- Considering further study
Careers drop-in sessions
These are available throughout the year, no appointment is needed, just come along and ask us a question.