Undergraduate Timeline for Skill development

You may be surprised to learn that  plenty of the graduate schemes out there are open to graduates from any  discipline - employers are more focussed on finding out  what transferable skills and work experience you have that complement  the role. 

Graduate schemes provide structured  training to ensure you receive the support you need to develop the  skills and knowledge required to perform effectively in the role 

Grad schemes are  available in almost every industry. And, because they also involve all  kinds of roles, contract lengths, benefits, and salaries – you  definitely won’t be limited on choice.

Graduate  schemes are usually offered on a fixed term basis, lasting between one  and three years. This means you’ll be able to benefit from a high level  of job security, in a role that allows you to learn and grow at the same  time.And as they’re designed to train graduates, the structure  of the schemes mean you’ll become fully qualified and experienced to  pursue more advanced opportunities – which are often available within  the same organisation once you reach the end of your contract.So providing you’re right for the role and there aren’t any significant issues that arise, you should be in the clear.

Joining  a grad scheme at a well-renowned organisation is a great way to prove  your skills, knowledge, and drive to future employers – especially if  you’re lacking in practical work experience as a new graduate.And  with a range of learning and development opportunities available,  you’ll be able to boost your career progression and become more  employable in the long-run.Even if you don’t progress to a  permanent position at the company you completed your grad scheme with,  what you’ve learnt will allow you to branch out into other fields and  pursue opportunities that might not have been available when you first  graduated.

If you’re torn between starting your career and traveling the world, a grad scheme might be the perfect in-between.OK,   For some big organisations, graduate schemes give  employees the opportunity to work in offices all over the world.Not  only will you be able to do something new and exciting that’s rare in  many jobs, you’ll also gain valuable life experiences, not to mention a  whole new network of contacts at the same time.And, who knows? You might even be in a position to take the plunge and pursue your career outside the Nigeria

The exact length of a grad scheme will vary from company to company, but they typically last between one and three years.Once  completed, the majority of those on the scheme will continue working  for the company in their chosen field – providing they’ve worked hard  during their employment, and an opportunity is available..

All  graduate schemes are paid positions, and although they involve a large  amount of training and development, their salaries reflect a full-time  job, rather than an internship or unpaid work experience.

Not  only does a graduate scheme work as a great entry-level position for  anyone recently out of university, the experience involved will also  allow you to figure out what career path is right for you – whilst  giving you the essential expertise you need to get there.And,  with schemes offering full training, development, and support, graduates  also benefit from the ability to quickly progress onto more advanced  roles within an organisation.But it’s not just experience you  could gain. Graduate schemes usually involve interactions with people  from all areas of a business, meaning networking in the right way could also help you to go further in future opportunities.Because sometimes ‘who you know’ really does help

Most organisations will look for graduates who have achieved a 2.1 or above when recruiting for their graduate schemes.However,  many companies may still consider applicants with a 2.2, providing  they’re able to back up their skills with other relevant experience  and/or qualifications..

Deadlines will vary depending on the specific graduate scheme and organisation.However,  with many organisations requiring grads to submit their applications  almost a year in advance of their start date, being ready to apply  within the first term of your final year of university is usually a  must.Although some opportunities will work on an open-recruitment  basis (meaning they’ll take applications all year round) – this may  still mean the scheme is no longer available once all vacancies are  filled..

Due  to their often generous salaries and career progression opportunities,  graduate schemes are notoriously competitive amongst university leavers.  So if you want to be accepted, putting the effort into your application  is vital.Although the steps following your application will vary  from scheme to scheme, the high quantity of applicants usually means  most graduate scheme processes include an initial phone interview followed by a group interview or an assessment day.And as with any interview, preparation is the key to standing out.Whether  it’s through doing thorough research on the role and company, ensuring  your relevant skills and education are foregrounded on your CV and cover  letter, or boosting your experience with volunteer/freelance work,  applying for a graduate scheme involves covering (and preparing for) all  bases – from the early application process to the interview.