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FreshMinds Talent on BBC South - how to differentiate yourself

by Soraya Pugh October 20, 2011
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​Yesterday morning I was interviewed by BBC South on the skills employers are looking for and how the graduates can stand out from the crowd.  It’s an interesting time in graduate recruitment as although it is a tough economic climate out there, there are still lots of companies hiring. Freshminds Graduate is busier than usual for this time of year!  There is always opportunity but employers are getting pickier and as a candidate, you need to continue to differentiate yourself.

Here are my 3 top tips on how to differentiate yourself:

  1.  Be creative, be innovative. Think about new ways to build your CV.  At university, get involved in societies and sports teams as these can provide you with real responsibility, for example, you may have to project manage a fundraising activity for your football team or launch a marketing campaign for a CSR society event.  These are all great pieces of work experience for your CV.  Beyond university you can build your profile using online tools such as blogs, twitter and facebook for example buymyface.com

  2. Be proactive.  Whilst there are always opportunities out there, you need more than just your degree to stand out.  You need to make your own luck and grab opportunities with both hands.  Networking is crucial and the more people you meet in the field you want to work in, the more likely you are to be front of mind when your ideal role arises.  Use Linked in to join relevant sector groups, there are plenty of excellent free events out there where you can make contacts at useful companies.

  3. Be positive. When times are tough, the tough get going.  Resilient, sparky, driven people are who companies want to have in their businesses at the moment.  Attitude and confidence is crucial when attending interviews and networking events.  There is always opportunity out there, remember that.

The Japanese definition of insanity is to repeatedly do the same thing over and over again expecting a different result.  If something isn’t working, try something else!

Contact Freshminds Talent if you want more tips on how to differentiate yourself from the crowd.

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