In this difficult climate, where competition for graduate jobs is fierce, you need to think strategically to find a way into your desired career. Certain geographical areas have historically been more popular with graduates, so how much difference does a place of work really make?
Recent statistics have revealed that there are significant regional differences in terms of job prospects. As expected, the most populous cities have the greatest competition for jobs and there are more opportunities in cities, which have experienced better economic performance. For example, Bristol has the highest employment rate of 74.2%, compared to the UK average of 70.4%. Conversely, Birmingham has been struggling with its unemployment level, so it may not be so advisable to search for jobs there, unless you think you will really enjoy living in that city. Also, there are certain places that continue to develop like Milton Keynes, so you could benefit from placing yourself somewhere that is experiencing rapid expansion and a corresponding surge in demand.
Most students hope to work either in a large city like London, near to where they studied at university or fairly close to their family home. This provides the comfort of friends and family and saves the time of trying to set up a whole new network. Although you will have time off at the weekends, making long journeys frequently will inevitably result in you being tired when you return to work. Having a good support network is important especially when you first start a job and if you have to complete some exams. Still, you need to also consider your long-term career path and where you want to eventually settle down.
Therefore, it may be worth considering being more mobile in your hunt for graduate jobs. The main benefit of expanding your search is the increase in vacancies available in different areas. Some of these may not be traditionally popular locations, but unless you go for interviews, you will not see what the work environment is really like. Also, once you start, this will give you the opportunity to make new friends and may help you work better in teams during office hours. Generally expanding your network will be beneficial, since you will be able to discuss any work related issues quite freely outside the office.
Overall, you need to think carefully about exactly where you want to work. You should not just relocate and then search for a job, but rather explore other opportunities by being more mobile. By widening your search, you will inevitably discover a range of possible locations. Then, after some thought, you may start your career in a place where you not only enjoying working, but which also after some time feels like a second home!
Arnab Datta
