The good news is that according to the IDS (Income Data Services) there is an eight per cent increase in the number of graduate roles being advertised. The tide is definitely turning and we are certainly feeling it here at Gong. Our numbers have more than doubled in less than a year. A third of our new starters were graduates. Our international client base and the expansion of Gong Creative has allowed us to stretch upwards and outwards.
However, there are still 2.49 million unemployed people in the UK and last year one in 10 graduates were unemployed six months after graduating. We have a way to go yet. CVs and covering letters have never been more important.
We have seen a lot of CVs here at Gong. Here are my top five tips to help you write a standout application and make a lasting impression:
1. Research: Dig deep into agency websites and thoroughly research the company you wish to approach. If you can drop in a subtle one liner, something you’ve noticed, or are interested in, or impressive company stats and achievements, this will show you have done your homework and impress potential employers.
2. Covering letter: This should detail a little about you, why we should employ you and what attracted you to us. Keep it brief, informative and relevant.
3. CV’s: They should be no more than two pages. Make sure the layout is clear and sectioned off neatly, so that if someone is scanning through it, they can find information fast.
4. Internships: Do as many as you can. You cannot beat office experience. Internships have become an elongated ‘interview process’. They are a fantastic way for you to gain experience and re-confirm your career path. As an employer, it gives us the chance to see how you work and fit in, so make the most of it, be keen and get stuck in.
5. Stay in touch: Link up with everyone and stay in touch via the usual social media networks. Generate a strong presence out there, keep it up to date, but be mindful of your output.
These may sound painfully obvious, but very rarely are such simple guidelines followed. If you are interested in joining the team, I would be delighted to hear from you. Gong continues to grow both in London and internationally, particularly East Africa and the US. We have a wonderfully diverse culture in our London office alone: 50 per cent of our employees are non-Brits and between us we have a huge array of skills, languages, experience and creativity to bring to the table.
For more information please go to our ‘about us’ page and get in touch at careers@thewilful.com.
