Finding a job
Due to the nature of the business sector with economic and strategic demands changing frequently, there are hundreds of different job roles available for graduates. However, the opportunities may be divided into two main areas – business management and consultancy.
Business management
Business managers can choose to focus on general management or to specialise in specific areas of an organisation. These may include, but are not limited to, marketing, strategic planning, information technology or human resources (HR). Some positions may concentrate on management of people, whilst others may be centred on project management. Roles are commonly available with most large companies and within the public sector.
Management consultancy
Management consultants offer advice to organisations focusing on effective problem-solving and enhancing performance. Opportunities are likely to be within large companies or specific consultancy firms. These firms may be general, but may also offer specialist advice to companies in specific industries, such as finance, marketing, media, HR and public relations (PR).
Where to start your job search
We recommend starting your search using our online jobs board, MyCareer. You can find general, online jobs boards through our Graduate Jobs page.
There are dedicated websites for opportunities:
Recruitment agencies
Recruitment consultants work with individuals to help them find suitable work to match their skills. Agency Central is the UK's leading recruitment agency directory. An advanced search and filter system finds the agencies which match your needs.
Are you looking for a role in Hampshire? Our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy can help!
If you're in the final year of your degree, you can register for support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy. They work with over 3,000 employers in the local area to place our students into fantastic graduate careers.
Speculative applications
Speculative applications involve sending a CV and cover letter to an employer to ask if they have any vacancies, even if the company is not currently advertising for a role. They're a great way to access "hidden jobs" that go unadvertised.
Submitting a speculative application shows your interest in a specific company and your willingness to go above and beyond to develop your skills and understanding of the industry.
Learn how to send a speculative application
Start your own business
Freelancing is another popular career path for those in accounting, finance and economics. Many rely on their portfolio, self-promotion or networking to generate work. Our Student Startup team can offer further support with freelancing and starting your own business.
Resources for professional development
Graduates in business and management are likely to engage in continuing professional development in the role they move into. Therefore you may wish to explore the professional development opportunities available to you. Professional qualifications, information and support are available at the following websites:
- The Chartered Management Institute is a professional body aiming to promote the highest standards in management and leadership excellence. The CMI offers practical qualifications for managers and leaders and the website outlines different opportunities, including courses and events.
- The Management Consultancies Association is the representative body for management consultancy firms in the UK. The site also offers news and opinion from those working in the business consultancy sector.
Our top tips for securing a job in business and management
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Keep your online job search flexible - some employers might use different titles to describe the same role.
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Keep up to date with industry news and trends by following professional organisations on social media.
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Attend career events to brush up on employability skills and network with employers.
- Diversify your job search by using different key terms - some jobs may have different names, but are essentially the same. You could also include terms in your search such as ‘graduate’, ‘entry level’, or ‘junior’.
- You have lots of transferable skills from your degree, which can be applied to a variety of jobs. Your degree could also be useful for roles such as Marketing, Data Analyst, Teaching, and self-employment.
- Use LinkedIn to connect with companies you’re interested in working for and build a network of professional contacts. Companies will often post about relevant news going on in the sector and share their job listings. You can find out more about using LinkedIn in our guide.
Explore our business and management career guide
Business and management career guide
Your guide to building a career in business and management.
Getting started in business and management
Take the first steps to beginning your career business and management.
Gaining experience in business and management
Learn about the different types of work experience available in business and management, and where to find them.
