Careers Service

Source: https://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/international/findingithard/ Parent: https://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/international/

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Finding it hard to get a job in the UK?

If you’re an international student seeking graduate work in the UK and facing challenges, the guide below will help you get started.

Decide What You Want to Do

Employers expect you to show authentic passion and interest for the role and company that you are applying for. You will need to take time in each of your applications to demonstrate this convincingly.\ UK employers often do not have strict requirements for the degree subject that an applicant has studied. Rather than focusing on roles directly tied to your degree, think about jobs that interest you based on your skills and values. Take time to reflect on what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what matters most to you in a job. This will help you target sectors and roles that align with your strengths and goals. For help with this, check the ‘I’m just starting to think about my career’ page on our website.

Know Your Rights

Not all employers are familiar with the different visa options for hiring international graduates, so it’s important to know your options and be ready to discuss them confidently. Visit our ‘Speaking to Employers About Your Visa’ page for tips on explaining visa options clearly to potential employers.

Know Where to Look

After deciding which sectors interest you, the next step is to know where to look for job opportunities. Our ‘Job Search Strategies’ page outlines the most effective methods for finding roles in the UK. If you’re specifically looking for employers experienced in hiring international graduates, eCareersGrad’s ‘Targeting the Right Employer’ course lists companies that have a track record of sponsoring international graduates under the Skilled Worker Visa. You can filter companies by sector and name to focus your applications effectively. This course is available via the ‘Visas and the UK Job Market for International Students’ pathway on CareerConnect.

Know How to Apply

Different employers use various recruitment processes and understanding how they will assess you at each application stage is crucial. Whether it’s writing a CV, cover letter, or completing psychometric tests, check out the ‘Applications and Interviews’ section of our website for detailed advice and resources.

Remember, quality is better than quantity when applying - tailor each application to the specific company and role, rather than sending out generic ones.

Be clear about the skills required for your target roles and sectors. Can you take an online course, attend a workshop, or volunteer to build your skills and experience

If you’re using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for applications, make sure you know how to use it effectively and that it doesn’t make your application seem generic or lacking authenticity. Check the ‘Your Guide to Applying with AI’ page for advice.

Be Patient

It can take weeks or even months to hear back from recruiters, especially for popular graduate schemes, so be prepared for a waiting period. After applying, focus on other opportunities or use the time to improve your interview and assessment centre skills. If you haven’t heard back after 4 weeks, consider sending a follow-up email, but remember that recruitment teams can be very busy.

Be Ready for Interviews & Assessment Centres

If your application is successful, the next step usually involves interviews or assessment centres. UK employers may approach these differently than what you’re used to, so preparation is essential. Review the ‘Interviews’ and ‘Assessment Centre’ sections of our website for guidance. Employers will assess candidates’ ability to communicate fluently with clients and colleagues in English, including on sector specific topics. This is known as “Business-level English”. Check out the ‘Business-level English’ section of our website for advice on how you can improve your confidence in English language.

Be Flexible

If you’re having trouble finding roles that match your skills or interests, try being flexible in your job search. Your target company may not be offering roles that suit your skillset at this time, or they might have cut the number of roles they are recruiting for. Consider other options like applying for administrative roles in your target company or sector as an entry point. Smaller companies may also offer similar roles to larger ones but with less competition. Alternatively, think about related roles in other sectors that allow you to develop your skills, which could help you move into your desired field later.

Develop Resilience

Job hunting can be tough, and rejection is a normal part of the application process. Keep a support system around you—talk to friends, family, and other international graduates who may be facing similar challenges. The International Society is a great place to meet other international students and share experiences. Remember, job search difficulties don’t reflect your value as a person. Use the University’s Student Support resources to help you develop resilience. Don’t worry if these resources seem focused on academic study, the tips offered can easily be adapted for job seeking.

Consider Options Outside of the UK

If finding a job in the UK remains difficult, it may be worth exploring opportunities outside the UK, including in your home country or other international markets. As an international student, you have knowledge of job markets in at least two countries- the UK and your home country- and this can be an advantage. You could even explore the possibility of working in another country outside of the UK and your home country.

• Speak to friends and family. Are they aware of opportunities or do they have connections within your sector of interest?
• Use GoinGlobal, a platform that offers guides to job-seeking in over 120 countries, including job portals and local hiring practices.
• Be open to new opportunities, even if they require a different approach or learning a new language.
• Be flexible as not all jobs are available in every country, and they might not have the same job titles you’re used to.
• Be confident. Your time in the UK has strengthened you as a candidate for employers back home. You've shown bravery, adaptability, and improved problem-solving by navigating a new culture. Living and working with diverse people has also enhanced your global awareness, which will be attractive to multinational organisations.
• Use LinkedIn (or the equivalent platform in your home country) to find people working in the jobs in that country. Look at their profiles – what experience do they have? This can be a good indicator of what you might need. You could connect with them or join a local network to ask questions.
• Join one of the University’s professional and alumni networks to contact with other international students, alumni and recruiters now working around the world.

Get Further Support

Deciding where to work and live after university is a big decision. The Careers Service is here to support you through one-to-one appointments, available throughout your studies and up to two years after your course is complete.

For further information, see Careers Service Guidance.

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