Be professional

Develop the skills you need to move into the professional world and thrive.

Based on research with students, graduates and recruiters we have pulled together resources on the areas that recent graduates can need support with as they embark on their first role after University. The aim of these resources is to provide quick support that can help begin to improve these behaviours.

Moving into work

Woman in yellow coat standing on the platform of a railway station as a train arrives or departs

You’ve left university and found a job. It can be challenging to change to a new mindset upon leaving university. But you can prepare for some of the changes that are happening.

Commercial awareness

Document showing barcharts and line graphs, with a hand holding a pen poised over the page

All employers look for graduates who have a thorough understanding of the sector they work in. Naturally, this takes time but there are things you can do to get a head start.

What you can bring?

outstretched hand holding a plant seedling in its palm

Often graduates don't realise how much value they bring to employers. You are a graduate from one of the world's best universities, you already possess a lot of valuable skills and knowledge that you can bring to the table.

Being proactive

person reaching for a book on a bookshelf

Being proactive can make a great impression and help you get noticed in your new career. Actively offering help to learn more can help you settle in and make your colleagues feel more comfortable.

Time management

Knowing how to allocate your time, manage workloads and work towards deadlines can help improve productivity and improve your work-life balance.

Getting the most out of your manager

The relationship you have with your manager is an important one and it is something that you have influence over. To get the most out of your manager, try to understand how they like to work and think about their perspective.

Relationship management

group meeting around a desk, two people shaking hands

Effective relationships at work will have a positive impact on your personal performance and that of the organisation. By considering the way you communicate and taking time to build your relationships with care and respect, this will lay the foundation for any disagreements that may occur in the future.

Business appropriate communication

Men and women sitting round boardroom table with laptops

Every organisation has its own culture and understanding this will help you to determine what is appropriate when you are communicating. The atmosphere in an organisation often sets the tone for the level of formality within the workplace. Identifying this will help improve your quality of emails, meetings and discussions with colleagues.

This article was published on 19 Jan, 2024