Congratulations! You’ve earned your Business Management degree – all those late-night study sessions and tough exams were worth it! Now, the real adventure begins – finding your dream job! The great news is that the skills you gain on a business management degree prepare you for a range of careers, from finance and consulting to marketing, HR, and entrepreneurship. You might have already started sending out your CV and cover letter, but all you get back is silence or the dreaded rejection email. Do not worry, getting stuck in the cycle of sending applications without positive results is a common experience and it is part of the process! Many graduates face this challenge. Save the Student put together a guide how to get a graduate job you want and deserve.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the job search process, from building strong applications to networking effectively—helping you take that next step with confidence. Here are a few tips!

1. Choose Quality Over Quantity

It’s tempting to send out numerous applications but focusing on a few can be more effective. Sending out 50 generic applications is far less effective than submitting 10 well-researched, tailored ones.

• Focus on roles that genuinely interest you and match your skills. Before you apply, ask yourself: Do I genuinely want this job? – If not, you’re likely wasting your time.
• Invest your time in researching the company and role, ensuring your application directly addresses the job requirements. Employers value applicants who put effort into understanding their company and the specific role they’re applying for.
• Tailor each application by highlighting relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job description.

For more guidance, check out these valuable resources: Target Jobs shares six tips for structuring your job hunt after graduation, while Engage and Prospects offer expert advice on how to write a successful application.

2.  Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

If you’ve applied for multiple jobs but have not received a positive response, it might be worth revisiting your CV and cover letter. Your graduate CV is your first step towards securing a role, and a generic CV won’t make you stand out in a competitive job market. To make a strong impression, adapt your CV for each job you apply for, emphasizing the skills, experiences, and achievements that directly align with the job’s requirements. A Guardian article highlights that being specific about your skills and accomplishments can significantly increase your chances of capturing a hiring manager’s attention. Here are a few ways to enhance your CV:

• Use a professional, clean format by using bullet points
• Pay attention to formatting, grammar and spelling
• Use professional, positive action words which fit with the role e.g. implemented, collaborated, analysed, especially when showing transferable skills.
• Focus on successful outcomes and achievements rather than simply listing duties
• Keep it concise— stick to two pages max for CV (although some industries might have different requirements)
• Use free tools and resources to perfect your CV and cover letter
• A cover letter provides additional context and detail to your CV. It allows you to showcase your personality, highlight your most relevant qualifications, and express your enthusiasm for the position you are applying for. Here are a few top tips to ensure your cover letter has an impact:

1. Carefully target your cover letter to each application
2. Typically, one side of A4 with three to five main paragraphs but always follow any employer instructions. 
3. Ensure that your letter is clearly laid out, and check spelling and grammar (and then check it again).
4. Address the letter to the named person, if possible.  Dear <Mr/Ms Surname> = Yours sincerely. Dear Sir/Madam = Yours faithfully

For more guidance check out, Engage article on-CV advice and principles and cover letters, RateMyPlacement  and Bright Network for tips, advice and CV templates, and the graduate’s guide to CVs: What your CV should include? that could help increase your chances of getting noticed and landing those interviews.

3. Leverage University of Westminster Resources

Did you know that as a University of Westminster recent graduate, you have access to a wealth of resources designed to support your career development? The Careers and Employability Service offers personalized consultations, interview coaching, and access to job listings for up to three years post-graduation. No matter what subject you studied, sector you wish to enter or career planning stage you are at, there is support for you. Engaging with these services can provide tailored guidance and open doors to opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Take advantage of the free access to CareerSet, an AI-powered tool that provides instant feedback on CVs and cover letters. After refining your draft, you can also book a 20-minute Careers appointment to discuss your application. The Virtual Skills Academy sessions are regularly run on CV and cover letter writing – you can book your spot via  Engage.  Check out the University of Westminster website for the full list of resources and support available to you. Take advantage of these free tools and resources to get ahead in your job search!

4. Update your LinkedIn

Many recruiters actively search for candidates on LinkedIn, so make sure your profile is up to date, well-structured, and includes a strong headline and summary. If you need help optimizing your profile, Forbes has some fantastic tips on creating a LinkedIn profile that gets noticed, and TargetJobs offers a comprehensive guide to creating a standout profile. You can also attend a LinkedIn masterclass—available both in-person and online, —hosted by the Careers and Employability team at the University of Westminster. Investing time in refining your CV, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile can significantly increase your chances of landing interviews.

5. Network Actively

In the competitive field of business management, many job openings are never advertised, making networking key to uncovering these hidden job opportunities. If you have not prioritised networking before, now is the perfect time to start. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with fellow University of Westminster alumni on platforms like LinkedIn and Westminster Connect to broaden your network, engage with recruiters and company pages. Various events can be found on platforms like  Engage, Eventbrite or Meetup, offering opportunities to connect with industry professionals. Here is an Engage article on how to network effectively and Prospects 5 tips to make the most of careers fairs.

Informational interviews can offer valuable insights and potentially lead to job referrals. To make the most of these interactions, Indeed suggests researching and preparing thoughtful questions in advance. TargetJobs provides useful tips for confidently engaging at networking events, employer presentations, and career fairs, while the Bright Network dos and don’ts of networking guide can help you make a lasting impression.

6. Gain Practical Experience

Breaking into the business management field can be challenging, but gaining relevant experience through business management internships, Forage virtual internships, part-time roles, or volunteer opportunities can significantly increase your chances of getting hired. These experiences help strengthen your CV, develop practical skills, and provide valuable industry insights. Even short-term roles or online projects can make a meaningful impact.

Explore internships and work experience on platforms like Engage, Bright Network, Prospects and TargetJobs. If you are interested in freelance work, websites like Upwork, Fiverr and PeoplePerHour offer great opportunities to build your portfolio. Expanding your skill set and professional network through these experiences will not only help you stand out but also provide a solid foundation for your future career.

7. Practice Resilience and Self-Care

Dealing with constant rejection can be disheartening, and it is natural to feel overwhelmed. If you’re feeling burned out, step back and reevaluate your approach. Consider taking a few days off, seeking feedback on your applications, and returning with renewed energy and a fresh perspective. This insightful article on coping with rejection provides valuable information to help you learn and grow from these experiences.

If you need more help, remember that The University of Westminster Careers Team is here to support you. Take advantage of their services by booking an appointment on  Engage for CV reviews, interview preparation, and job search strategies, etc.

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Author: Dr Natalia Ciofu, Careers Consultant Project Officer