• Use the Career Timeline -  find out what you need to be doing during each year of your studies to develop your employability and plan ahead for your future career. Start your career planning early, it is not going to happen over night.
• Know what you have to offer - it is crucial that you know what you can offer an employer in terms of skills, experience and qualifications and also understand how these are transferable to the work place. See the self-awareness section.
• Do your research - know where to find opportunities, where and how your degree subject will be relevant; understand what the entry requirements are for different roles and know what employers look for in candidates.
• Develop your skills - it is essential to develop a range of skills that employers value via extra-curricular activities and experience not just via your academic studies.
• Gain a range of experiences - employers expect graduates to have developed their skills via a range of experiences.
• Consider taking a placement year and contact the placement unit in your academic school.
• Network - build your contacts, find out about different roles - even create opportunities for yourself.
• Market yourself effectively - ensure your CV / application writing and interview techniques are ready to impress - see the Application process.
• Develop an understanding of the graduate labour market - see Labour Market Information
• Develop and maintain a positive and professional attitude.
• Ensure that you contact the Careers and Employability Service and take advantage of the professional career guidance available to all University of Huddersfield students and recent graduates up to three years after graduation.

How employable are you?

See also the Self awareness section for advice on how to assess the skills and experience you currently have to offer an employer. Identify any gaps and then use your time wisely at university to fill them.  

What the employers say

We asked employers what skills do they look for in students and graduates?

They said:

"Good communication skills and IT skills, confidence and a willingness to learn. Someone who has done voluntary work or work experience makes a better employee" J. King - Kirklees Council

"Flexibility, aptitude and application. Willingness to get involved, be proactive and deliver on commitment" S.Proctor - Cummins

"Confidence, politeness, looking for a challenge and commercial awareness" J.Mills Weir Valves and Co